Broadwater County commissioners held a discussion — not a decision — about pursuing the purchase of a commercial property at 111 Beaver Drive (the Silos) for county use, including storage for search and rescue, weed and road departments, potential meeting space and a possible volunteer fire or emergency-services presence.

Commissioner Randolph introduced the item and described the site as slightly more than seven acres with two lots and existing buildings and utilities. Commissioners and staff said the county holds ARPA and other federal-source funds that could be available for eligible projects; they also said negotiations have not yet started, the appraisal exists, and county staff will pursue due diligence and public input if the commission directs further steps. Staff emphasized that whether local tax dollars would be used has not been decided.

Multiple speakers from the public and emergency-response organizations urged the county to move forward. Eric Krush, president of Broadwater Search and Rescue, said storing a large lake boat at the Silos would dramatically reduce response times for calls across the lake and allow critical equipment (including newly awarded ice-rescue suits) to be stored indoors. Fire representative Ed Sheindoll said his department would use the site for storage and that a nearby vehicle might increase volunteer recruitment, but noted that the Silos area currently lacks a staffed station.

Members of the Citizens Action Group for the Silos, Broadwater County Development Corporation and other residents submitted letters of support that were read into the record. Letters emphasized reduced response times for lake emergencies, space for county equipment, possible community meeting/polling space and that federal funds could cover purchase costs without a local tax increase, though commissioners said final funding decisions and negotiations are pending.

Speakers and commissioners noted consequential infrastructure needs if the county acquires the property, including widening and strengthening Silos Road, establishing pedestrian/trail space, and resolving existing storage tenants’ leases. The county said it will pursue further study, public meetings and grant/ARPA funding options if the commission directs next steps.

No purchase motion was made at the meeting; the item remained discussion-only. Commissioners indicated they will continue due diligence and engage stakeholders before any negotiation or formal purchase action.