Commissioner Proceedings

Monday, March 13, 2023

Commissioner Chair Lee Randall called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m. in the Commissioner’s office, Powder River County Courthouse. Commissioners Lori Fortner and John Olson were present.

Commissioners reviewed and approved the consent agenda.

The minutes of the March 6, 2023 commissioner proceedings were read, approved, and ordered published.

Old business was discussed. An updated contract for a Fire Warden was reviewed and the board authorized the Clerk and Recorder to present it to Raymond Ragsdale. Lee Randall updated that he spoke with Powder River Predator Control, Pat Ruland, regarding MT Fish & Wildlife request to add additional funding to county aerial predator control and additional ground support to aid in controlling coyotes.

Chad Gatlin, representing Rolling Hills Golf Course, met with the board to inquire on the county’s opinion for a possible remodel of the golf course clubhouse. Gatlin presented ideas to the board. The board requested Gatlin to proceed with further details on the cost of a possible remodel and meet again.

The work agreement between Henry Shovic and Powder River County to clean up data for Next Gen 911 when the State of Montana is ready to go live. The board reviewed the agreement and signed the agreement.

Adam Johnson, EMS Director, met with the board. Johnson seeked approval from the board to have the graphics for the new 2nd ambulance applied before delivery with a cost estimate of $4400.00; board approved. Johnson presented the potential cost to keep 2 sets of EMTs on staff for both ambulances. Johnson requested approval to proceed with the CIH program; board approved. CIH program is only funded through March 2024. Johnson then presented standardized uniforms for EMT’s, with an estimated cost of $850.00 each. Runs reported: 15 January and 6 February.

Extension Agents Mary Rumph and Julie Riley met with the board. Agents reported they are working on summer events, 4-H camps, and upcoming trainings.

The board reviewed the scope of work for the CAH feasibility study, Commissioner Randall will reach out to Julie Emmons-Stoddard for more information.

Cynde Jo Gatlin, Clerk & Recorder, met with the board to present a questionnaire from the auditor. Gatlin also requested for approval to upgrade the county handbook; board approved and Gatlin requested the board to create a fee schedule for services the EMS department will be charging to the public; board will agenda and create a fee schedule.

The board then discussed the possibility of moving the clinic into a rural health status. Upon discussion the board unanimously agreed to reach out to Julie Emmons-Stoddard to request to add this to the CAH feasibility study.

After hearing no further public comment, the board adjourned at 5:00 pm and will reconvene Thursday, March 16, 2023.