(La Porte County, IN) - A La Porte County Commissioner insulted another elected official over his young age during a brief flare up involving a no-bid contract.

 

It happened during the Monday night meeting of the La Porte County Council during a review on a request to pay for work outside a La Porte County government office building at 555 Michigan Ave. in downtown La Porte.

 

The La Porte County Commissioners earlier this month approved the hiring of a contractor to make the repairs without seeking bids to save time on stopping the sewage that was flowing into the structure.

 

Councilman Justin Kiel said he appreciated the emergency response but felt the commissioners were still obligated by law to place the work out for bids.

 

Commissioner Steve Holifield stood up from his chair in the audience and defended the decision.

 

Holifield, a farmer in his upper 50’s, also threw a verbal jab at Kiel, who hasn’t turned 30 yet.

 

“Why don't you come and shovel the g**damn sewage out of the building the next time we have an issue like this, boy.  How does that sound to you,” he said.

 

In response, Kiel questioned Holifield’s behavior.

 

“That seems not very professional,” he said.

 

All of the council members, except for Kiel, approved the funding for the work.  Holifield estimated the cost of repairs at roughly $50,000.