Contributed photo
Front row: County Engineer Jodi Teich; Joe Cartwright, Widseth; Jordan Vaughan, project manager Hammers Construction; Doug Cannell, facilities operations manager; former county commissioner Lee Rogness; City of Perham Mayor Tim Meehl; County Commissioner Bob Lahman District 4; County Commissioner Sean Sullivan District 5; District 1 County Commissioner Dan Bucholz; Byron Zitzow, Perham garage, Bruce Haugrud Pelican Rapids garage; Jeff Ratz Perham garage; John Bushman, Henning garage; Highway Maintenance Superintendent Colby Palmersheim. Back row: Perham City Administrator Jonathan Smith; Trevor Guck, Widseth; Travis Tomford, Henning garage; James Mudge, Henning garage; Deputy Administrator Nick Leonard; Dale Current, Perham garage; Nate Eischens, Fergus Falls garage; Isidore Lindberg, Fergus Falls garage. Attending but not pictured, County Commissioner Kurt Morntenson, District 3.

Otter Tail County celebrated the completion of its new Perham Highway Garage during an open house on Tuesday, Dec. 3. The facility represents a significant investment in infrastructure and the collaborative planning between county leadership, contractors, and highway department staff.

“My dad, as a former county commissioner in the 60s, was asked for a new garage for Otter Tail County,” said County Commissioner Dan Buchholz, District 1. “And here it is. This new building will serve our crews and our residents for decades to come. We are very proud of this project.”

Highway Maintenance Superintendent Colby Palmersheim explained how the new garage features modern amenities designed to improve operational efficiency and equipment care. 

“A state-of-the-art wash bay enables crews to maintain vehicles properly,” said Palmersheim. “The facility provides ample indoor space for equipment storage, protecting county assets from the elements and extending their operational life.”

County officials expressed their gratitude to local project partners Hammers Construction, Widseth Architects and the City of Perham for their collaboration and expertise throughout the planning and construction process.

“This project’s success shows what can be accomplished through dedicated partnerships,” said Facilities Operations Manager Doug Cannell. “The highway maintenance staff brought insight to the design process, ensuring the facility meets the real-world needs of those who will use it every day.”

Highway maintenance staff were on hand during the open house to showcase the new facility, provide tours to the public and discuss how the improved workspace will enhance their ability to serve county residents.

The collaborative approach to the project—from initial planning through final construction—resulted in a facility that meets both current and future needs. Otter Tail County thanks all employees and partners for their dedication and expertise, which made this project a success.

For more information about the Highway Department, visit www.ottertailcounty.gov.