Commissioners press for contractor insurance proof after repeated off-contract work and billing concerns

During the meeting Burke County commissioners raised concerns about departments hiring outside contractors without prior purchase orders or certificates of insurance and the county later receiving bills that expose taxpayers to additional costs.

Commissioners and staff discussed examples including landscaping and roadway work performed by outside firms. Staff said departments should vet contractors and obtain certificates of insurance before issuing work orders; one staff member noted that when outside contractors lack certificate coverage the county ends up paying workers’ compensation on the total billed amount rather than separating labor and materials, increasing county costs.

Commissioners asked whether the county can require contractor licensing and appropriate insurance for firms doing renovation or building work on county property. Staff said certificates of insurance are included when county staff issues purchase orders for projects led by county staff, but they did not confirm that every outside arrangement is currently covered.

No new formal procurement rule or ordinance was adopted during the meeting. Commissioners instructed staff to review current vetting and payment processes and to present options for ensuring contractors are licensed, insured, and contracted before work begins.