Granite County public meetings in 2025

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will convene on December 30, 2025, to review weekly reports on road and bridge maintenance, solid waste operations, and dam outflow, along with project updates and decisions on construction pay applications.

• Weekly report with Road & Bridge Superintendent Paul Alt
• Solid Waste District’s weekly report
• Dam Tender’s Report for Georgetown Lake Outflow
• TCS Northwest and Slate Architect project updates and pay applications #21 & #22
• Granite County Surplus Items for Public Auction

The board accepted the December 23 minutes unanimously. They approved a motion to keep water flow at 10 CFS for a week, also unanimously. They authorized a public bid for a surplus backhoe and roller, and approved the current appraisal schedule. The commissioners decided to close out the courthouse elevator project, including removal of damaged bathroom marble.

• Accepted December 23 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved staying at 10 CFS water flow for a week (unanimous)
• Authorized public bid for surplus backhoe and roller (unanimous)
• Authorized current appraisal schedule as approved (unanimous)
• Closed out courthouse elevator project, removed damaged bathroom marble

County Commissioners

The Granite County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss and decide on several items, including a jail boiler and ventilation project, the transfer of PILT funds to local towns, and the adoption of a library resolution. The meeting will also include reports from road and bridge, solid waste, and dam tender departments.

• Granite County Jail Boiler and Ventilation Projects
• Resolution 2025-18: Transfer of PILT Funds to Town of Philipsburg and Drummond
• Granite County Resolution 2025-17 and Philipsburg Area Multijurisdictional Library District Resolution 2025-1
• Letter of Support for MT Citizens’ Climate Lobby
• Pay Applications #21 and #22 TCS Northwest

The commissioners unanimously accepted the Montana Mitigation Assistance Grant, covering a 25% match of $8,446 from the County Building Fund for a new jail generator. They also unanimously approved a joint library district resolution, a letter of support for a federal clean‑energy climate lobby, a motion to stay dam releases at 10 CFS, and a decision not to work with a regional natural‑resource advisor.

• Approved Montana Mitigation Assistance Grant for jail generator (unanimous)
• Approved Joint Resolution Granite County 2025‑17 and Library District Resolution 2025‑1 (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Climate Lobby on federal clean‑energy projects (unanimous)
• Approved staying dam outflow at 10 CFS per week (unanimous)
• Approved not engaging with Mr. Peck and the Mineral, Sanders, Powell counties MOU (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from the December 16, 2025 meeting (motion moved and seconded)
• Approved backhoe equipment bid process (discussed, no vote recorded)
• Approved purchase of a chainsaw for road crew (discussed, no vote recorded)

Airport Board

The Airport Board will meet via Zoom to discuss ongoing business and field updates. The agenda includes reviews of the Riddick and Drummond fields and a DNRC Land Use Application.

• Riddick Field ALP updates
• Airport Beacon replacement updates
• DNRC Land Use Application
• Airport cameras at Riddick Field
• Airport inventory report

The board accepted the minutes from the November 19, 2025 meeting. They approved Dave Lee to serve as Vice Chairperson. The next regular meeting was scheduled for January 21, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. Dave Lee was assigned to verify that all links from the old county website are migrated to the new site.

• Accepted minutes from 19NOV2025 meeting (motion moved by Eric Anderson, seconded by Dave Lee)
• Approved Dave Lee as Vice Chairperson (motion moved by Donovan Jones, seconded by Eric Anderson)
• Scheduled next regular meeting for 21JAN2026 at 19:00 via Zoom
• Assigned Dave Lee to verify migration of all website links
• Motion to adjourn passed (moved by Gary Snyder, seconded by Eric Anderson)

Study Commission - Local Government Review Board

The Study Commission will review the budget report that includes the cost of a survey. It will discuss the rollout of the survey presented by Luke Ulatowski, including how it will be distributed, how responses will be collected and counted, reporting timelines, and outreach plans. The meeting also includes routine items such as approving prior minutes and allowing public comment on non‑agenda matters.

• Approval of October and November meeting minutes
• Budget report covering the cost of the survey
• Survey rollout discussion led by Luke Ulatowski – distribution methods
• Survey rollout discussion – collection, counting, deadlines, and reporting
• Public comment on matters not on the agenda

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the October and November meetings, with all members in favor. A $3,910.01 invoice for printing and postage was reviewed as the largest anticipated cost. Commissioners agreed that survey responses will be hand‑counted and only accepted if returned in official envelopes or delivered to the courthouse. The next regular meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026 at 6 p.m.

• Approved October and November meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Reviewed $3,910.01 printing and postage invoice (informational)
• Agreed surveys will be hand‑counted
• Agreed only mailed surveys in official envelopes or delivered to courthouse will be accepted
• Scheduled next regular meeting for Jan. 14, 2026 at 6 p.m.

Board of Health

The Granite County Board of Health will meet to approve prior meeting minutes and receive reports from county health staff, including the sanitarian, tobacco prevention, public health nurse, and the local health officer. The meeting is open for public comment and will also set agenda items for the next quarterly meeting.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Granite County Sanitarian Report with Chad Lanes
• Granite County Tobacco Prevention Report with Amanda Bohrer
• Public Health Nurse Report with Deb Robinson and PHEP Report
• Medical Director/Health Officer Report with Dr. Kira Conn

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will consider a joint resolution (2025-17) establishing the Philipsburg Area Multijurisdictional Library District. They will also decide on county claims for December, a surplus vehicle bid, a bank authorization letter, and a lease agreement for courthouse driver services. Each item will be discussed and a decision made during the regular session.

• Joint Resolution Granite County Resolution 2025-17 and Philipsburg Area Multijurisdictional Library District Resolution 2025-1; First Reading
• County Claims for December; Discussion & Decision
• Surplus Bid Opening 2013 Ford Explorer VIN #1F M5K8ARXDG B08212; Discussion & Decision
• Letter of Authorization for Valley Bank for County Treasurer; Discussion & Decision
• Lease Agreement #4750 with MT Motor Vehicle Division Drive Services Bureau regarding courthouse space; Discussion & Decision

The Board approved the quarterly health board minutes and the regular commission minutes, both unanimously. Commissioners moved to maintain the Georgetown Lake dam outflow at 10 cubic feet per second for a week, which passed unanimously. They agreed to move an old backhoe to the county shop for potential bidders. A first reading was held for a $48,500 library mill levy to be placed on the ballot.

• Approved quarterly health board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved regular commission minutes for Dec. 9, 2025 (unanimous)
• Motion to keep dam outflow at 10 CFS a week passed unanimously
• Agreed to move old backhoe to county shop for inspection by bidders
• First reading of $48,500 library mill levy request (no vote recorded)
• Commissioners agreed on quarterly FERC call dates (no vote recorded)

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees is holding a special meeting to review and potentially approve a joint resolution. The board will also vote on the minutes from the November 25, 2025 meeting.

• Joint Resolution Granite County Resolution 2025-17 and Philipsburg Area Multijurisdictional Library District Resolution 2025-1

Granite County DUI Task Force

The DUI Task Force will review financial reports regarding reinstatement fees and receive a report from the Sheriff. The body will discuss DUI patrols, designated driver gift cards, and education ideas for schools and the community.

• Financial report on reinstatement fees
• Sheriff's MIP/DUI report
• Discussion of designated driver gift cards
• Nomination and voting for new officers
• Education and prevention ideas for community and schools

The task force approved the September 3, 2025 minutes unanimously. It then approved a $1,750 expenditure to bring an alcohol and vaping education speaker to schools. A separate motion to spend $600 on a portable breath tester for local schools was also approved unanimously.

• Approved September 3, 2025 minutes (all voted in favor)
• Approved $1,750 for speaker on alcohol and vaping education (all voted in favor)
• Approved $600 for portable breath tester for schools (all voted in favor)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet to discuss county infrastructure, public health contracts, and facility maintenance. The body will consider a resolution to authorize a loan from the PILT fund for fiscal year 2025-2026 expenditures.

• Resolution 2025-16: Loan from County’s PILT Fund for unexpected expenditures
• Task Order No. 14: Community Wildfire Protection Plan Update with GreatWest Engineering
• Task Order Hhs-Ecfs-00000728: Master PHEP Contract with MT Department of Public Health and Human Services
• Granite County Jail boiler and ventilation projects
• Lease Agreement #4750 with MT Motor Vehicle Division Driver Services Bureau for courthouse space

The commissioners unanimously accepted the December 2 minutes and voted to keep the dam outflow at 10 CFS per week. They approved Resolution 2025-16, authorizing a PILT fund loan for a $4,000 ambulance, a $30,419 extension‑office truck, and $75,000 for solid‑waste services. The board also unanimously accepted two task orders with GreatWest Engineering and the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. Lease agreement #4750 and the courthouse boiler contract were tabled for future discussion.

• Accepted December 2 minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to stay dam outflow at 10 CFS per week (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-16 loan for $4,000 ambulance, $30,419 truck, $75,000 solid‑waste (unanimous)
• Accepted Task Order No. 14 with GreatWest Engineering (unanimous)
• Accepted Task Order HHS‑ECFS‑00000728 with MT Dept. of Public Health (unanimous)
• Tabled Lease Agreement #4750 (to be revisited next week)
• Tabled Courthouse boiler contract issue (to be revisited later)

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees is meeting to discuss pursuing additional funding through a ballot issue in the June 2026 election. The board intends to request that County Attorney Blaine Bradshaw develop the necessary resolution for submission to the Granite County Clerk and Recorder.

• Proposal for a June 2026 election ballot issue for additional library funding
• Request for County Attorney Blaine Bradshaw to develop the submission resolution

County Commissioners

The Granite County Safety Committee will receive updates on Payne West, the Montana State Fund, courthouse maintenance, jail operations, road conditions, and solid waste container sites. The committee will discuss revising the Emergency Action Plan to add the elevator and the new E3 security system that will be installed in January. It will also note that some departments still need to complete required safety trainings.

• Payne West Update – Claims report (Rody Holman)
• Montana State Fund update (Mark Rosenleaf)
• Jail – IPAWS county‑wide test on November 28, 2025 at noon (Valerie Cartwright)
• Revision of Emergency Action Plan to include elevator and new E3 security system
• Safety trainings – departments missing completed trainings; contact Jackie

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet to discuss several equipment purchases and infrastructure projects. The body will decide on a resolution to authorize a loan from the County's PILT fund for fiscal year 2025-2026 expenditures.

• Resolution 2025-16: Loan from the County's PILT Fund for unexpected expenditures
• Middle Fork Gravel Pit Permit Renewal
• Backhoe purchase for Drummond Location Solid Waste Site
• Task Order No. 13 – 2025 DSSM Updates with GreatWest Engineering
• Ventilation project for County Jail building

The board approved several items, including a $42,670 purchase of a belly dump, renewal of the Middle Fork Gravel Pit permit, and a $13,200 task order with GreatWest Engineering. They also set a 10 CFS flow limit for the Georgetown Lake dam and, unanimously, ordered chimney lining, boiler repair, and acceptance of a new central‑air ventilation system for the county jail. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved purchase of a belly dump for $42,670 (unanimous)
• Approved annual permit renewal for Middle Fork Gravel Pit (unanimous)
• Approved 10 CFS flow limit for Georgetown Lake dam (unanimous)
• Accepted Task Order No. 13 with GreatWest Engineering for $13,200 (unanimous)
• Approved chimney lining, boiler repair, and jail ventilation upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from September 9 2025 safety meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted board minutes for November 25 2025 (unanimous)

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees will meet to consider a possible 2027 mill levy for the library. After the discussion, the board plans to attend the Granite County Commissioners meeting at about 10:15 am to present a tentative plan. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Discuss possibility of a 2027 mill levy for the library
• Present tentative mill levy plan to Granite County Commissioners at ~10:15 am

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet on November 25, 2025 to review and decide on a range of items. Topics include road and bridge reports, solid waste site equipment purchases, library funding, and various contracts and public comments. Each agenda item is scheduled for discussion and decision.

• Lakeshore Drive Asphalt Removal – discussion & decision
• Backhoe Purchase for Drummond Location Solid Waste Site – discussion & decision
• Truck Purchase for County Extension Agent – discussion & decision
• Philipsburg Library Mill Levy Request – discussion & decision
• Ventilation with Comfort Systems at the Sheriff’s Office/Jail Building – discussion & decision

The board unanimously accepted the November 18 minutes. They approved the lower $42,670 bid for a new belly‑dump trailer. A motion to release 10 CFS per week from Georgetown Lake passed unanimously. The decision to join a regional natural‑resource program was tabled for later.

• Accepted November 18 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $42,670 belly‑dump trailer bid (unanimous)
• Moved to release 10 CFS per week from Georgetown Lake (unanimous)
• Tabled decision on joining regional natural‑resource program

Airport Board

The Granite County Airport Board will hold a regular remote meeting to review updates on Riddick and Drummond fields, the airport beacon replacement, a DNRC land use application, and camera installations at Riddick Field. The agenda also includes coordination with Philipsburg Town and an inventory report. No specific decisions or votes are listed in the agenda.

• Riddick Field updates
• Drummond Field updates
• Riddick Field ALP updates
• Airport beacon replacement updates
• Airport cameras at Riddick Field

The Granite County Airport Board voted to approve the minutes from its October 15, 2025 meeting. The board also reviewed field conditions, beacon replacement options, a land‑use application, and camera installation, but no further actions were decided. The next regular meeting is set for Dec 17, 2025.

• Approved Oct 15 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Eric Anderson, seconded by Dave Lee)

Study Commission - Local Government Review Board

The Granite County Study Commission will review correspondence and a cover letter, examine the third draft of a survey, and make a decision on it. The commission will also discuss a summary of Montana home rule. In addition, the board will approve the September 24 minutes and set the agenda, location, date, and time for the next meeting.

• Review and decide on the third survey draft
• Review correspondence with Dan Clark and the cover letter
• Discuss Montana home rule summary
• Approve September 24 meeting minutes
• Set agenda items, location, date, and time for the next meeting

The commission unanimously approved the September meeting minutes after amendment. The board then approved the revised survey cover letter and questionnaire, sending it out for public response, with the motion passing 2‑0. Vice Chair Elena Gagliano abstained from signing the cover letter.

• Approved September meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Approved amended survey cover letter and questionnaire (2‑0)
• Vice Chair Elena Gagliano abstained from signing the cover letter

Study Commission - Local Government Review Board

The Local Government Review Board will discuss and make a decision regarding a survey. The commission will review correspondence with Dan Clark and a third survey draft.

• Decision on survey draft
• Review of correspondence with Dan Clark
• Discussion of potential outreach meetings

The commission unanimously approved the September meeting minutes as amended. The board voted 2‑0 to approve the revised survey and cover letter and to send them out, with Gagliano abstaining and not signing the cover letter. A budget report showing October expenses of $30.63 and cash balances was presented. The next regular meeting is set for Dec. 17, 2025.

• Approved September meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Approved amended survey and cover letter for mailing (2-0)
• Gagliano abstained and declined to sign the cover letter
• Presented budget report (no vote)
• Scheduled next regular meeting for Dec. 17, 2025

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet to discuss various county operations, including road and waste management. The body will decide on a mining permit application and the Town of Philipsburg municipal general election canvass.

• McDonald Excavation’s Permit Application for Mining with MT DEQ zoning compliance review
• Town of Philipsburg Municipal General Election Canvass
• Possible backhoe purchase for Solid Waste
• Truck purchase for County Extension Agent
• Systems NW Communications Agreement for Courthouse Elevator

The board approved leaving the Riddick Field airport beacon dark except for one public testing day with 48‑hour notice. They also authorized an emergency backhoe purchase for the Drumond solid‑waste site using an interfund loan from PILT funds. Additional unanimous actions included maintaining Georgetown Lake outflow at 6 CFS, accepting November county claims, and approving the town election canvass, TCS pay applications, solid‑waste policies, and a state task order for PHEP.

• Approved leaving airport beacon off except one testing day (unanimous)
• Approved emergency backhoe purchase financed via interfund loan from PILT (unanimous agreement)
• Approved Georgetown Lake outflow stay at 6 CFS per week (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of November county claims (unanimous)
• Approved Town of Philipsburg 2025 election canvass (unanimous)
• Approved TCS Pay Applications #19 and #20 (unanimous)
• Approved solid‑waste job description and policies (unanimous)
• Approved signing task order 26‑07‑11‑174‑0 for PHEP (unanimous)

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will conduct employee reviews in a closed session and hold a regular meeting to discuss the 2025 strategic plan and 2027 mill levy. The board will also address employee contracts and the availability of basement office rental spaces.

• 2027 Mill Levy discussion
• Employee contracts and raises
• 2025 Strategic Plan review
• Basement office rental spaces available after Nov. 23
• Employee reviews for Library Director Gina Vale

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will review and decide on several operational items, including a surplus items public auction, a dam outflow report, and service agreements for the courthouse elevator and the MSU Extension Office. They will also discuss road and bridge reports, a crew job opening, and solid waste district updates. Public comment will be accepted before each agenda item.

• Granite County Surplus Items for Public Auction – Discussion & Decision
• Dam Tender’s Report, Georgetown Lake Outflow – Review & Decision
• Courthouse Elevator Emergency Communications: Monitoring Set‑Up Agreement with Systems Northwest – Discussion & Decision
• Annual MSU Extension Office Agreement – Discussion & Decision
• Road & Bridge Crew Job Opening – Discussion & Decision

The board accepted the October 28 minutes and approved several actions, including hiring a mechanic, setting a 6 CFS outflow for Georgetown Lake, and adopting the MSU Extension agreement. It also tabled an emergency communications contract for the courthouse elevator, approved a transmittal letter for the Flint Creek Dam assessment, and lowered the minimum bid for a surplus vehicle auction.

• Accepted October 28, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of Kristofer Clark as mechanic/operator (2-1 vote)
• Adopted a 6 CFS outflow rate for Georgetown Lake (unanimous)
• Accepted FY 2025‑2026 MSU Extension Agreement (unanimous)
• Tabled Systems Northwest emergency communications contract for two weeks
• Approved and sent Flint Creek Dam transmittal letter (unanimous)
• Lowered minimum bid to $1,500 for surplus 2013 Ford Explorer auction (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet to discuss county operations, including road crew hiring and solid waste equipment. The body will decide on heating system repair proposals and a contract amendment for sexual risk avoidance education.

• Proposals from JCI & Comfort Systems for heating system repairs
• Contract Amendment No. One for Public Health Department Sexual Risk Avoidance Education Expansion
• Appointment of a county representative to the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority Board
• Purchase of a used backhoe for the Drummond Solid Waste Site
• Proposed burn permit application process via Tyler Technologies website

The board accepted the October 21 minutes unanimously. They voted to keep the Georgetown Lake outflow at 6 CFS per week. Commissioners appointed Charlene Bucha as the county representative on the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority board and approved the jail inmate excess medical insurance renewal and a public‑health contract amendment. The airport beacon issue was tabled until the next meeting.

• Accepted October 21 minutes (unanimous)
• Stayed Georgetown Lake outflow at 6 CFS per week (unanimous)
• Appointed Charlene Bucha to BSPRA board (unanimous)
• Approved jail inmate excess medical insurance renewal (unanimous)
• Approved Public Health contract amendment for sexual risk education (unanimous)
• Tabled Riddick Field Airport beacon concerns until Nov 18

Study Commission - Local Government Review Board

The Granite County Study Commission will review survey feedback from the Rotary and Airport Board. The body will discuss potential additions to the survey and clarify the roles of elected versus appointed commissioners.

• Review of survey feedback from Rotary and Airport Board
• Potential approval of drafted additions to the survey
• Discussion of legal representation and commissioner responsibilities
• Recommendations for the new county website page

The commission unanimously postponed approval of the prior meeting’s minutes until the next meeting. A motion to adopt the revised survey and begin distribution was not seconded and therefore did not pass. The board decided not to hold any outreach meetings in the near future because Chair Senn will be absent. The next meeting was scheduled for 6 p.m. on November 19, 2025 at the Granite County Courthouse.

• Postponed approval of previous minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to adopt revised survey failed (no second)
• Ruled out outreach meetings in near future due to Chair’s planned absence
• Scheduled next meeting for Nov 19, 2025 at 6 p.m. at Granite County Courthouse

County Commissioners

The Granite County Board of Commissioners will convene on October 21, 2025, to review board minutes, discuss road and bridge operations, and consider purchasing a backhoe for the Drummond Solid Waste Site. The meeting will also include decisions on boiler system repairs, county claims, and the use of courthouse storage rooms.

• Review of Board Minutes from October 14, 2025
• Weekly Report with Road & Bridge Superintendent Paul Alt
• Potential Backhoe Purchase for Drummond Solid Waste Site
• Boiler System Repair Quotes from Johnson Controls & Temp Right Service
• Use of Courthouse Storage Rooms for County Planning & Clerk of District Court

The board unanimously accepted the October 14 minutes and approved maintaining Georgetown Lake outflow at 6 cfs. They renewed multiple board appointments, including the Compensation, Airport, Valley Cemetery, Valley Fire, and Planning Boards. The commissioners also approved the use of courthouse storage rooms for the Planning Director and the Clerk of District Court, and they accepted the county’s October 2025 claims.

• Accepted October 14, 2025 minutes – unanimous
• Maintained Georgetown Lake outflow at 6 cfs – unanimous
• Renewed Cathy Smith to Compensation Board – unanimous
• Renewed Donovan Jones to Airport Board – unanimous
• Renewed William Parke to Valley Cemetery District Board – unanimous
• Renewed Jerry Koon to Valley Fire District Board – unanimous
• Approved courthouse storage room use for Planning Director and Clerk – approved
• Accepted county claims for October 2025 – unanimous

Airport Board

The board will review updates on Riddick and Drummond fields, the airport beacon replacement, a DNRC land‑use application, coordination with Philipsburg, Northwestern Energy’s utility relocation, and camera installation at Riddick Field. It will also consider new items including the County of Granite Study Commission and an airport inventory report. No formal decisions are listed; the agenda is for discussion and information sharing.

• Airport Beacon replacement updates
• DNRC Land Use Application
• Northwestern Energy utility service relocation
• Airport cameras at Riddick Field
• County of Granite Study Commission

The board reviewed updates on Riddick and Drummond fields, the new airport beacon, a DNRC land‑use application, utility service relocation, and camera installation. Members discussed the County Study Commission survey draft and noted that all hangar leasees have confirmed except hangar 7. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Adjourned meeting (motion by Benton Rooks, seconded by Andrew Cadwell)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will consider a series of reports and decisions, including a resolution to petition the expansion of the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority to include the county. They will also discuss a one‑year extension of the master agreement with GreatWest Engineering and select a proposal to update the Community Wildfire Protection Plan. Additional items include a dam tender report for Georgetown Lake outflow and routine road and bridge updates.

• Resolution 2025-13: Petition to expand the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority to include Granite County (second reading & adoption)
• 1‑year contract extension to the Master Agreement with GreatWest Engineering (discussion & decision)
• Review and selection of a proposal for the Community Wildfire Protection Plan update (discussion & decision)
• Dam Tender’s Report on Georgetown Lake outflow (review & decision)
• Weekly report with Road & Bridge Superintendent Paul Alt (discussion & decision)

The board accepted Resolution 2025-15 to petition the expansion of the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority. They also approved the Community Wildfire Protection Plan update proposal from GreatWest for $65,000 and signed a one‑year extension of the master agreement with GreatWest Engineering. Additional actions included adjusting Georgetown Lake outflow to 6 CFS for a week and approving September 2025 claims except the Iron Horse Towing claim.

• Accepted October 7, 2025 minutes (unanimously)
• Approved Resolution 2025-15 expanding the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (unanimously)
• Approved September 2025 claims except Iron Horse Towing claim (unanimously)
• Adjusted Georgetown Lake outflow to 6 CFS for a week (unanimously)
• Approved GreatWest proposal for Community Wildfire Protection Plan update ($65,000) (unanimously)
• Approved 1‑year extension of master agreement with GreatWest Engineering (unanimously)
• Tabled open mechanic/operator position interview for next week
• Accepted boiler repair quotes for future agenda (unanimously)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on re‑including the county in the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority and discuss preliminary decisions on letters of interest for a board seat. A first reading of Resolution 2025-13, which petitions the authority’s expansion to include Granite County, will also be considered. Additional agenda items include updates on road and bridge operations, solid waste, a dam tender report, and several contract and covenant matters.

• Public hearing and preliminary decisions on re‑including Granite County in the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority
• Resolution 2025-13: First reading to petition expansion of the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority
• GreatWest Engineering master agreement renewal and response to FERC regarding Georgetown Lake HOA complaint
• Amendment to covenants, conditions, and restrictions for lot 2, Kelly Minor Subdivision (COS 1141)
• TCS Pay Application #18 and Retainage Pay Application #19 for the Courthouse Project

The board accepted the September 30 minutes and approved a temporary reduction of Georgetown Lake outflow to 20 CFS for one week. They decided to keep the CDL requirement in the road crew job description. The commissioners also voted unanimously to re‑engage with the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority and to publish a public notice inviting letters of interest for the county’s rail representative.

• Accepted September 30, 2025 minutes – passed unanimously
• Reduced Georgetown Lake outflow from 30 CFS to 20 CFS for one week – passed unanimously
• Retained CDL requirement in road crew job description – decision made, no vote recorded
• Moved to re‑include Granite County in the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority – passed unanimously
• Approved publishing a newspaper notice for letters of interest for the BSPRA representative – passed unanimously

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will review and vote on several reports and proposals, including a road and bridge update, solid waste district activities, and a dam tender report. The agenda’s key decision item is an encroachment permit and easement request for a utility line along Brown’s Road and McKenzie Court. Additional discussions cover the launch of the Civic Plus website and a review of MT DEQ inspection letters for solid waste transfer sites with an update to the county’s operations and maintenance plan.

• Encroachment Permit Application and Easement Request for utility line on Brown’s Road and McKenzie Court
• Dam Tender’s Report for Georgetown Lake outflow
• Solid Waste District weekly report and MT DEQ inspection letters
• Civic Plus website launch scheduled for October 1
• Road & Bridge Superintendent’s weekly report (Paul Alt) and related decisions

The board accepted the September 23, 2025 meeting minutes. They approved an encroachment permit and easement for County Cork LLC to install a utility line on Brown’s Road and McKenzie Court. They voted to keep the Georgetown Lake outflow at 30 cubic feet per second for the week. They announced that the new Civic Plus county website will launch on October 1.

• Accepted September 23, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved encroachment permit and easement for County Cork LLC (unanimous)
• Approved maintaining Georgetown Lake outflow at 30 CFS for the week (unanimous)
• Announced new Civic Plus county website launch on October 1

Airport Board

The Airport Board will review updates for Riddick and Drummond Fields and discuss the Riddick Field Airport Layout Plan. The board is also scheduled to address board member term renewals.

• Updates for Riddick Field and Drummond Field
• Riddick Field ALP updates
• Airport Beacon replacement updates
• DNRC Land Use Application
• Board member term renewals

The Airport Board approved the minutes from the August 20, 2025 meeting. The board also approved a second term for Donovan Jones as chairperson. Michael Thompson announced he will step down to allow a position for Brad Radtke to represent Drummond Airport. No other substantive actions were recorded.

• Approved minutes from 20 Aug 2025 (motion by Michael Thompson, seconded by Dave Lee)
• Approved second term for Donovan Jones as chairperson (motion by Michael Thompson, seconded by Dave Lee)

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to discuss the 2027 mill levy and review the library's mission statement. The meeting includes reports on financials and the status of a concrete project.

• Discussion of 2027 mill levy
• Review of 2025 Strategic Plan
• Finalization and signing of bylaws
• Update on concrete project
• Availability of one basement office space

Study Commission - Local Government Review Board

The commission will discuss communication with the MSU Local Government Center. It will review and revise the draft Granite County Study Commission questionnaire and consider feedback and study results. The board will also plan future outreach efforts and set the next meeting’s agenda, date, time, and location.

• Discussion on communication with MSU Local Gov. Center (Dir. Dan Clark, Bryan Senn)
• Review and revise draft Granite County Study Commission Questionnaire (Luke Ulatowski)
• Discuss future outreach efforts – potential dates, organizations, locations
• Set agenda items, location, date and time for next meeting
• Public comment on matters not on the agenda

The commission approved the meeting minutes with no changes. A motion to approve the draft questionnaire, incorporating Dan Clark’s revision, passed 2‑0 (Gagliano abstaining). Another motion authorized Luke Ulatowski to send the approved survey to registered county voters within three weeks, also passing 2‑0 (Gagliano abstaining). The commission discussed future outreach but no formal vote was taken.

• Approved meeting minutes (no changes)
• Approved questionnaire with Clark’s revision (2-0, Gagliano abstaining)
• Authorized Ulatowski to send out the survey within three weeks (2-0, Gagliano abstaining)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will discuss and decide on several reports and proposals, including road concerns, solid waste operations, and fire restrictions. They will review a request for proposals to update the Community Wildlife Protection Plan and consider a proposed settlement agreement with Rising Sun regarding attorney fees. Public comment will be accepted before the first agenda item and throughout the meeting.

• Black Pine Road concerns – discussion
• Solid Waste District weekly report – discussion & decision
• Request for proposals for Community Wildlife Protection Plan update – discussion & decision
• Proposed settlement agreement with Rising Sun on attorney fees/costs – discussion & decision
• Fire Restrictions update – discussion & decision

The commissioners unanimously accepted a $50,000 settlement agreement with Rising Sun LLC to resolve attorney fee costs. They also lifted all fire restrictions, approved a newspaper notice and RFP for a $66,000 wildlife protection plan, and ordered four new 35 mph speed‑limit signs for Black Pine Road. Additional actions included accepting September county claims, staying Georgetown Lake outflow at 30 CFS, and signing a letter of support for Maureen Connor’s advisory council appointment.

• Accepted $50,000 settlement with Rising Sun LLC (unanimous)
• Lifted all fire restrictions (unanimous)
• Approved newspaper notice and RFP packet for $66,000 wildlife protection plan (unanimous)
• Ordered four 35 mph speed‑limit signs for Black Pine Road (approved)
• Accepted September 2025 county claims (unanimous)
• Moved to stay Georgetown Lake outflow at 30 CFS (unanimous)
• Signed letter of support for Maureen Connor’s advisory council appointment (unanimous)
• Approved McGregor Peak repair of snow plow (approved)

Board of Health

The Granite County Board of Health will approve the minutes from the previous meeting and hear several health reports, including the Sanitarian, Tobacco Prevention, Public Health Nurse, and Medical Director reports. The board will discuss these reports and consider agenda items for the next quarterly meeting scheduled for December 16, 2025.

• Approve minutes from the prior meeting
• Discussion of Granite County Sanitarian Report (Chad Lanes)
• Discussion of Granite County Tobacco Prevention Report (Amanda Bohrer)
• Discussion of Public Health Nurse Report and PHEP Report (Deb Robinson)
• Discussion of Medical Director/Health Officer Report (Dr. Kira Conn)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Board of Commissioners will review weekly reports on roads, solid waste, and dam tenders, discuss attorney fees in a lawsuit, and consider public participation policies for meetings.

• Weekly report with Road & Bridge Superintendent Paul Alt
• Solid Waste Policy Update and Supervisor Job Description
• Dam Tender’s Report, Georgetown Lake Outflow
• County Claims and Pay Application #18 for Courthouse Project
• Proposed settlement in David Pederson v. Granite County

The board unanimously approved the June 17 and September 9, 2025 board minutes. Commissioners also voted unanimously to maintain the Georgetown Lake outflow at 30 cubic feet per second. The solid‑waste policy update was tabled, and the road department decided to hold off on hiring a short‑term snow‑plow driver, with no bridge work planned this season.

• Approved June 17, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 9, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to keep Georgetown Lake outflow at 30 CFS passed unanimously
• Solid‑waste policy update tabled (no vote)
• Road department held off on hiring short‑term snow‑plow driver (budget hold)
• No bridge work planned for the season (status)

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Philipsburg Community Library Board will travel to Great Falls on September 16, 2025 to attend the Montana State Library Conference. The board will review the conference agenda available at msl.mt.gov. No other agenda items are listed for discussion.

• Travel to Great Falls for Montana State Library Conference (Sept 16, 2025)
• Review conference agenda at msl.mt.gov

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will adopt Resolution 2025‑11, setting the county's 2025‑2026 fiscal year budget, including salaries and cost‑of‑living increases. They will also adopt Resolution 2025‑12, establishing the method for levying voted mills under Montana House Bills 231 and 542. Additional items include signing the opioid settlement, deciding on a motor‑vehicle graveyard grant, and reviewing a speed‑study request for Montana Highway 271.

• Resolution 2025‑11: Adopt FY 2025‑26 budget with salaries and cost‑of‑living increases
• Resolution 2025‑12: Adopt method for levying voted mills per MT House Bills 231 & 542
• Opioid Settlement Secondary Manufacturers: Review and sign
• FY 2026 County Motor Vehicle Graveyard Grant for Philipsburg junk‑vehicle site: Decision
• Speed Study Request for MT Highway 271 near intersecting frontage road: Decision

The commissioners approved a revised Zoom and conference‑line policy for public comment, adding a 30‑day technical fix window and posting the policy online. They also accepted the September 2 board minutes, authorized a $20,988.70 insurance disbursement, and adopted a cost‑of‑living increase resolution for certain county employees. Additional actions included approving a FY2026 junk‑vehicle graveyard grant, sending a speed‑study request letter to MT DOT, accepting the opioid settlement, and adopting a resolution on levying voted mills.

• Accepted September 2 board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $20,988.70 insurance disbursement from MACo trust (unanimous)
• Adopted cost‑of‑living increase resolution for certain county employees (unanimous)
• Approved FY2026 grant for junk‑vehicle graveyard (unanimous)
• Authorized letter to MT DOT requesting speed‑study on Highway 271 (unanimous)
• Adopted revised Zoom participation and conference‑line policy (unanimous)
• Approved opioid settlement with secondary manufacturers (unanimous)
• Approved resolution establishing method of levying voted mills per House Bills 231 & 542 (unanimous)

Granite County DUI Task Force

The Granite County DUI Task Force will meet to review financial reports on reinstatement fees, receive a sheriff’s report on DUI patrols, and discuss education and prevention initiatives for the community and schools. The group will also vote on new officer nominations and approve the annual operating plan.

• Review of reinstatement fees and current balance sheet
• Sheriff’s report on DUI patrols and MIP/DUI incidents
• Discussion of education and prevention ideas for community and schools
• Voting on new officers
• Approval of annual operating plan

The Granite County DUI Task Force approved its September 3 minutes and elected Sheriff Rico Barkell as chair. It authorized $3,000 for DUI patrols, $150 for designated‑driver gift cards, and $50‑$200 for event advertising. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved September 3 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Sheriff Rico Barkell as Task Force chair (unanimous)
• Approved $3,000 for DUI patrols for the next six months (unanimous)
• Approved $150 for designated driver gift cards (unanimous)
• Approved $50‑$200 for advertising an event (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The commissioners will conduct public hearings and make a decision on the Fiscal Year 25-26 budget, including official salaries and cost-of-living increases. The body will also review a dam tender's report for Georgetown Lake Outflow and a resolution regarding voted mills.

• Fiscal Year 25-26 Budget hearings and decision
• Resolution 2025-12 regarding the method of levying voted mills
• Dam Tender's Report for Georgetown Lake Outflow
• Request to MT DOT for a 'Reduce Speed Ahead' sign on Marshall Creek Road
• County Superintendent of Schools Agreement for Hall School Services

The board unanimously accepted the levies for Fiscal Year 25‑26, adopting the county’s budget for that year. They also approved the reclassification of the Solid Waste Clerk to Grade 8 and the updated job description for that position. The agreement for Hall School services was approved, and a letter to MT DOT requesting a reduced‑speed sign on Marshall Creek Road was authorized.

• Approved FY 25‑26 budget levies (unanimous)
• Reclassified Solid Waste Clerk to Grade 8, effective July 1 (unanimous)
• Approved updated job description for Solid Waste Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved Hall School Services agreement (unanimous)
• Authorized letter to MT DOT for reduced‑speed sign on Marshall Creek Road (unanimous)
• Moved Georgetown Lake outflow stay to 30 CFS (unanimous)
• Advanced fire restriction to Stage 1 (unanimous)
• Approved August 26, 2025 board minutes with changes (unanimous)

Study Commission - Local Government Review Board

The Granite County Study Commission will meet to decide on a regular meeting location, a preferred Zoom or livestream option, and advertising methods. The group will also review procedures from a neighboring county and discuss logistics for a study commission survey.

• Decide regular meeting location (courthouse office, election office, or justice court)
• Decide Zoom/livestream option and budget allocation
• Decide on advertising methods and allocations
• Review Daniels County Study Commission procedures
• Discuss logistics and cost of mass mailing for survey

The commission approved the amended minutes from the July 24 meeting, with two members voting in favor and one abstaining. They set the next regular meeting for September 24 at 6 p.m. in the Granite County Courthouse. The board authorized a $159.90 purchase of a Zoom service using commission funds, and adopted a public‑notice advertising plan costing $13 per 100 words for the first notice and $11 per 100 words for additional notices. Additional resolutions assigned members to submit the draft survey to Dan Clark, to request further training from Clark, and to have the chair handle newspaper communications.

• Approved July 24 minutes (2‑0, 1 abstain)
• Scheduled Sept 24 meeting at courthouse (3‑0)
• Approved $159.90 Zoom purchase (2‑0)
• Adopted public‑notice cost structure ($13/100 words first, $11/100 words additional)
• Resolved Ulatowski to submit draft survey to Dan Clark for comment
• Resolved Senn to contact Dan Clark about additional in‑person training
• Assigned Senn to handle newspaper communications for notices
• Agreed to add agenda item on scheduling public outreach dates

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will hold public hearings for the Fiscal Year 25-26 budget. The board will also consider a resolution regarding the levying of voted mills and a subdivision amendment.

• Fiscal Year 25-26 Budget Hearings
• Resolution 2025-12 regarding the method of levying voted mills per Montana House Bills 231 and 542
• Public hearing for Arrowstone Lot 14 Johnson Subdivision amending Lot 14 of the Arrowstone Major Subdivision
• Dam Tender's Report for Georgetown Lake Outflow
• Contract modification between Granite County and Area Von Aging in-kind match

The board voted 2‑1 to suspend Elena Gagliano from attending commissioner meetings in person or via Zoom for one month, allowing only written comments by email. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Adler and dissented by Commissioner McLure. The board also unanimously accepted the August 19 minutes, approved the Area V contract modification and the GCMC agreement, and approved a $24,000 sand purchase for road work.

• Suspend Elena Gagliano from meetings for one month (2‑1)
• Accept board minutes for August 19, 2025 (unanimous)
• Accept Area V contract modification (unanimous)
• Accept agreement with GCMC for use of Area V funds (unanimous)
• Approve purchase of 1,000 yards sand for $24,000 (unanimous)
• Stay Georgetown Lake outflow at 30 CFS (unanimous)
• Select $9,500 VoIP telephone system after bid review (no vote recorded)
• Approve purchase of sand for road maintenance (unanimous)

Airport Board

The Airport Board will discuss ongoing projects and coordination efforts. The meeting includes updates on field conditions and utility relocations.

• Riddick Field and Drummond Field updates
• Riddick Field ALP updates
• Airport Beacon replacement updates
• DNRC Land Use Application
• Northwestern Energy utility service relocation

The Airport Board approved the minutes from the July 16, 2025 meeting. The board filled the vacant member seat with Andrew Cadwell and closed the item. The revised location for Northwestern Energy’s utility service relocation was approved, pending permitting. A new wooden airport sign was installed by Scott McDonald.

• Approved July 16, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Michael Thompson, seconded by Eric Anderson)
• Filled vacant board member seat with Andrew Cadwell
• Approved revised location for Northwestern Energy utility service relocation
• Installed new airport sign (installed by Scott McDonald)
• Assigned Donovan Jones to provide DNRC land‑use application background to Andrew Cadwell

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Philipsburg Library Board will hold its regular monthly meeting to approve minutes, financials, and reports from staff and the Friends group. New business includes finalizing bylaws, reconsidering board training in Great Falls, and discussing a 2027 mill levy. Old business covers fundraising, a concrete project update, and a strategic plan review.

• Finalize bylaws with signatures required
• Reconsider board training conference to one day (3 hours needed)
• Discuss 2027 mill levy plans
• Review 2025 fundraising and strategic plan
• One basement office space available for rent

County Commissioners

The Granite County Board of Commissioners will convene a regular session to discuss the preliminary Fiscal Year 25-26 budgets, review a contract modification with Area V on Aging, and receive weekly reports from the Road & Bridge Superintendent and Solid Waste District.

• Preliminary decision on Fiscal Year 25-26 budgets
• Contract modification with Area V on Aging
• Weekly report from Road & Bridge Superintendent Paul Alt
• Solid Waste District weekly report
• Lower Willow Creek Minor Subdivision final plat approval

The board accepted the August 12 minutes and voted to keep Georgetown Lake outflow at 30 CFS. They approved a resolution supporting the Beaverhead‑Deerlodge National Forest working group’s letter to congressional delegates for a travel‑management plan. The agenda template was updated to require email public comments be submitted before the meeting, and the matter concerning Elena Gagliano’s conduct was tabled for the next session.

• Accepted August 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to stay at 30 CFS for Georgetown Lake outflow passed (unanimous)
• Supported BHDL working group letter to congressional delegates (unanimous)
• Updated agenda template to require email comments before meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled Elena Gagliano sanctions issue until next meeting (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will hold a regular session to review and decide on budget matters, pay requests for courthouse repairs, tax collection plans, and updates from county departments. Public comment is reserved for multiple points during the meeting.

• Pay Requests #16 & #17 for Courthouse Bathroom and Elevator Project (TCS Northwest)
• Plan to Collect Delinquent Taxes with County Treasurer
• Philipsburg Volunteer Ambulance Update and Funding Ambulance Repairs
• Emergency Notification Service for County Buildings
• Weed Spraying on County Property

The commissioners unanimously approved several actions, including adopting the E3 emergency notification service for county buildings funded by the CARES Act, approving pay applications #16 and #17 for courthouse bathroom and elevator work, and maintaining stage 1 fire restrictions. They also accepted the August 5 minutes, approved the July 25 county claims, set Georgetown Lake outflows at 30 cfs, and authorized removal of a lock on the Bear Gulch Road gate and a cattle guard in the county right‑of‑way.

• Adopt E3 emergency notification service for county buildings (unanimous)
• Approve pay applications #16 and #17 for courthouse bathroom and elevator project (unanimous)
• Accept August 5, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
• Accept July 25, 2025 county claims (unanimous)
• Set Georgetown Lake outflows at 30 cfs (unanimous)
• Maintain stage 1 fire restrictions for county jurisdiction (unanimous)
• Authorize cutting lock on Bear Gulch Road gate (unanimous)
• Authorize removal of cattle guard and portion of fence in county right‑of‑way (unanimous)

Study Commission - Local Government Review Board

The Study Commission is meeting to determine its meeting location and budget for Zoom or livestreaming options. The body will also propose survey questions and discuss the costs associated with mass mailing.

• Decision on meeting location
• Budget allocation for Zoom/livestreaming options
• Proposal of study commission survey questions and mailing costs
• Discussion of Daniels County procedures with Elena Gagliano
• Discussion of ex officio status with Elena Gagliano

Commissioners voted 2‑0 to use the Granite County Commission office as the study commission’s meeting location, with the election office as a fallback. They also approved motions to explore using the county’s Zoom account (or a free option) and to add hyperlinks to agenda documents. A 500‑word monthly column in the local newspaper was approved, and the next meeting was scheduled for August 27 at the courthouse.

• Approved meeting location: Granite County Commission office (fallback election office) – vote 2‑0
• Approved motion to explore using county Zoom account or a free option – vote 2‑0
• Approved motion to consider adding hyperlinks to agenda documents – vote 2‑0
• Approved a 500‑word monthly column in the Silver State Post/Philipsburg Mail
• Agreed that Ulatowski will report back on public notices and advertising options
• Set next meeting for August 27, 2025 at 6 p.m. at the courthouse

County Commissioners

The board will conduct a work session for the FY 25-26 budget and review collective bargaining agreements for road crew and solid waste employees. Other business includes courthouse project updates and fire restriction reviews.

• FY 25-26 Budget Work Session
• Collective Bargaining Agreements with Road Crew and Solid Waste Employees
• Contract amendment for courthouse roof system redesign with Slate Architect
• Philipsburg Library budget and board renewal
• Fire restrictions update

The board accepted the amended contract to redesign the Granite County Courthouse roof, allowing more time for plan revisions and a potential re‑bid in January. They also approved the collective bargaining agreements for the Road and Solid Waste units, moved the Georgetown Lake outflow to 30 CFS, reappointed Linda Graham to the Philipsburg Library board for a five‑year term, and authorized the purchase of solid‑waste equipment within the budget. All motions passed unanimously with no public comment.

• Approved amended courthouse roof contract (unanimous)
• Accepted collective bargaining agreements for Road and Solid Waste units (unanimous)
• Moved Georgetown Lake outflow to 30 CFS (unanimous)
• Reappointed Linda Graham to library board for five‑year term (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of solid‑waste equipment within budget (unanimous)
• Accepted July 29 board minutes (unanimous)

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to approve the 2025-2026 budget and review final bylaws. The meeting includes updates on staffing changes and the upcoming August silent auction.

• Approval of 2025-2026 Budget
• Addition of Chris Murfitt and Jill Waldbillig as bank account signators
• Library closure scheduled for August 16
• Review of final bylaws
• Update on the Concrete Project

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet to discuss the upcoming fiscal year budget and collective bargaining agreements for road crew and solid waste unions. The session includes decisions on the Georgetown Lake outflow and a Purdue Pharma class action settlement.

• FY 25-26 Budget Work Session
• Collective Bargaining Agreements with Road Crew and Solid Waste Unions
• Georgetown Lake Outflow review and decision
• Purdue Pharma Class Action Settlement
• HDR's Scope of Work for the Flint Creek Dam Comprehensive Assessment

The commissioners accepted the July 22, 2025 board minutes with a unanimous vote. No other actions were formally approved, denied, or tabled during the meeting. Discussions continued on lake outflow, dump rules, and road work without a recorded decision.

• Accepted July 22, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)

Study Commission - Local Government Review Board

The Study Commission will meet to appoint leadership roles and discuss its operational budget. The body will also review a commission survey and determine how to handle public communications and meeting transparency.

• Delegation of Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary roles
• Discussion of budget options for legal counsel and minutes-writing
• Review of study commission survey
• Discussion of livestreaming and posting options for agendas and minutes

The commission appointed Luke Ulatowski as secretary (2‑0), Bryan Senn as chair (3‑0) and Elena Gagliano as vice chair (2‑0). It voted not to hire a minutes‑writer or external legal counsel, assigning those roles to existing members. The board postponed deciding on a meeting location to the next meeting and agreed that Senn will write a column for the Philipsburg Mail.

• Appointed Luke Ulatowski secretary (2‑0)
• Appointed Bryan Senn chair (3‑0)
• Appointed Elena Gagliano vice chair (2‑0)
• Decided not to hire a minutes‑writer
• Decided not to hire external legal counsel
• Postponed location decision to next meeting
• Bryan Senn will write a column for the Philipsburg Mail

County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet to discuss county operations, including budget work for FY 25-26 and collective bargaining agreements. The session includes a second reading and adoption of updated floodplain regulations.

• Resolution No. 2025-9: Adopting Amended Granite County’s Floodplain Regulations
• Collective Bargaining Agreements with Road Crew and Solid Waste Unions
• Middle Fork Ranch Final Plat
• HDR’s Scope of Work for the Flint Creek Dam Comprehensive Assessment
• FY 25-26 Budget Work Session

The board unanimously accepted the minutes from the July 15 meeting. Commissioners also unanimously approved a motion to raise the Georgetown Lake outflow to 40 cubic feet per second, pending a temporary modification request from the three overseeing agencies. A proposal to write John Kendall up for insufficient cleanup progress was tabled until the next meeting. Negotiations on collective bargaining agreements with the road crew and solid‑waste unions were also tabled for next week.

• Accepted July 15 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved increase of water outflow to 40 CFS (unanimous)
• Tabled writing John Kendall up for lack of progress (postponed)
• Tabled collective bargaining agreements with road crew and solid‑waste unions (pending)

Airport Board

The Airport Board will discuss ongoing updates for Riddick Field and Drummond Field. The meeting includes reviews of utility service relocation and land use applications.

• Riddick Field ALP updates
• Airport Beacon replacement updates
• DNRC Land Use Application
• Northwestern Energy utility service relocation
• Replacement options for the wood airport sign

The Airport Board approved the minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting after a motion was moved by Michael Thompson and seconded by Dave Lee. The board then adjourned the meeting following a motion moved by Michael Thompson and seconded by Benton Rooks. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved June 18, 2025 meeting minutes (motion moved by Michael Thompson, seconded by Dave Lee)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion moved by Michael Thompson, seconded by Benton Rooks)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet to discuss infrastructure repairs, labor negotiations, and updated floodplain regulations. The board will also consider a propane gas contract for solid waste sites.

• Runway repair options at Riddick Field
• Union negotiations for Road Crew and Solid Waste
• Resolution No. 2025-9 to adopt amended Floodplain Regulations
• 2025-2026 Pre-Buy Propane Gas Contract with Energy Partners
• Appointment of Greg Overstreet as Special Deputy Granite County

The commissioners approved several actions, including matching gravel and applying mag chloride on Lakeshore Drive, dropping Georgetown Lake outflow to 25 CFS, and adopting Stage 1 fire restrictions. They also appointed a special deputy, approved a runway repair bid, accepted propane contracts for county sites, and confirmed Bryan Senn to the Study Commission.

• Accepted July 8 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 400 yd gravel + mag chloride for Lakeshore Drive (unanimous)
• Approved dropping Georgetown Lake flow rate to 25 CFS (unanimous)
• Approved $17,500 Fish On runway chip‑seal repair (unanimous)
• Appointed Greg Overstreet as Special Deputy (unanimous)
• Adopted Stage 1 fire restrictions (unanimous)
• Approved propane contracts ($4,252.70 at County Shop; $389.80 at each solid‑waste site) (unanimous)
• Approved Bryan Senn to Study Commission (2‑1, McLure dissenting)

County Commissioners

The County Commissioners will hold a public hearing and decision meeting regarding proposed changes to floodplain regulations. The board will also consider union counter-offers and the appointment of a Special Deputy for prosecutions.

• Public hearing and decision on proposed, amended floodplain regulations
• Appointment of Greg Overstreet as Special Deputy Granite County for prosecutions
• Review and approval of contractor payment for Clark Fork Bridge curb repair
• Hearing on the possible removal of Local Government Study Commission member Dr. Gary Snyder
• Discussion on union negotiations and counter-offers

The board approved several items unanimously: acceptance of the July 1 minutes, maintenance of the Georgetown Lake outflow at 30 cfs, approval of the Clark Fork Bridge curb‑repair documents, removal of Dr. Gary Snyder from the Study Commission, and scheduling the first reading of the amended floodplain regulations for the following Tuesday. No public comments were received on any of these motions.

• Accepted July 1, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Maintained Georgetown Lake flow rate at 30 cfs (unanimous)
• Approved Clark Fork Bridge curb‑repair documents and contractor payment (unanimous)
• Removed Dr. Gary Snyder from the Study Commission (unanimous)
• Set first reading of amended floodplain regulations for next Tuesday (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet to make decisions on personnel matters, union negotiations for solid waste and road crews, and potential litigation involving a former employee. The body will also review road agreements and insurance renewals.

• Union negotiations for Solid Waste and Road Crew
• Possible litigation against the county by former employee David Pederson
• MOU with Montana Wool Growers Association for Predator Control Fund
• Encroachment Permit Renewal for Sunny Beach LLC at Georgetown
• Cyber and Airport Insurance Renewal with MarshMcLennan Agency

The commissioners accepted the June 24 minutes and kept the Georgetown Lake outflow at 30 CFS. They approved the Montana Wool Growers Predator Control Fund agreement, a part‑time solid‑waste attendant position, and appointed Jessi Jacobson to the Tri‑County Fair Board. They voted unanimously to remove Dr. Gary Snyder from the Local Government Study Commission, and after an initial 2‑1 vote to reject two study‑commission applications, they later approved Elena Gagliano’s appointment by a 2‑1 vote. All motions were recorded with the indicated vote counts.

• Accepted June 24 minutes (unanimous)
• Maintained Georgetown Lake flow at 30 CFS (unanimous)
• Approved Montana Wool Growers Predator Control Fund Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved part‑time fill‑in Solid Waste Attendant application (unanimous)
• Removed Dr. Gary Snyder from Local Government Study Commission (unanimous)
• Rejected Jackie Butler and Elena Gagliano study‑commission applications (2‑1, McLure dissenting)
• Accepted Elena Gagliano’s study‑commission application (2‑1, Adler dissenting)
• Accepted Jessi Jacobson to Tri‑County Fair Board (unanimous)

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to conduct a preliminary budget review and vote on amended bylaws. The meeting includes personnel actions and planning for the Flint Creek Valley Days parade.

• Approval of amended bylaws
• Preliminary budget review
• Acceptance of resignation of Bethanney Foley
• Proposed appointment of Chris Murfitt as board member
• Requirement for employees to use vacation hours by 12/31/2025

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet to discuss personnel changes, including the potential removal of the Solid Waste Manager position. The board will also review union counter-offers and a potential member removal from the County Study Commission.

• Proposed removal of Granite County Solid Waste Manager position
• Counter offer to Road Crew and Solid Waste Union Representative
• Discussion on removing Dr. Gary Snyder from the Granite County Study Commission
• MT DNRC Agreement #ACTF-25-001 for Community Wildfire Protection Plan Grant
• Cost proposals for replacement compressor for Courthouse Boiler System

The board approved the removal of the solid waste manager position, with a 2‑to‑1 vote. They also unanimously kept the Georgetown Lake outflow at 30 CFS, accepted the minutes from June 17, and approved a new dispatcher pay matrix for FY26. The solid waste manager removal is expected to save about $26,000 per year, while the dispatcher pay change would cost roughly $4,800.

• Accepted June 17, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
• Removed (dissolved) the solid waste manager position effective end of FY2025 (2‑1)
• Maintained Georgetown Lake outflow at 30 CFS as required by FERC order (unanimous)
• Approved new dispatcher pay matrix for FY26, including step increase and 3% COLA (unanimous)

Airport Board

The Airport Board will discuss ongoing maintenance and regulatory updates for Riddick and Drummond Fields. The meeting includes reviews of land use applications and utility service relocations.

• Riddick Field ALP updates
• DNRC Land Use Application
• 5010 Inspection Review Corrections including runway number repainting and light repair
• Northwestern Energy utility service relocation
• Replacement options for the wood airport sign

The Granite County Airport Board approved the minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting. No new business or public comments were presented. The board then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved May 21, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Eric Anderson, seconded by Donovan Jones)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Eric Anderson, seconded by Donovan Jones)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to select a chairperson and approve previous minutes. The meeting includes reports from the county sanitarian, tobacco prevention, public health nursing, and the local health officer.

• Selection of a Chairperson
• Granite County Sanitarian Report with Chad Lanes
• Granite County Tobacco Prevention Report with Amanda Bohrer
• Public Health Nurse Report with Deb Robinson
• Medical Director/Health Officer Report from Dr. Kira Conn

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will determine cost-of-living adjustments and salaries for elected officials and employees. The board will also act on the Sheriff's resignation and the appointment of an Undersheriff. Other business includes a budget work session for FY 2025-2026 and a review of floodplain regulations.

• Appointment of Undersheriff as Sheriff following Sheriff's resignation
• Final decision on salaries and COLA for elected officials and non-union employees
• Preliminary review of FY 2025-2026 budgets for the Sheriff's Office and Solid Waste District
• Decision on Middle Fork Ranch Minor Subdivision Preliminary Plat
• Discussion on proposed amended County Floodplain Regulations

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet to discuss county financials, road and waste reports, and courthouse grounds maintenance. The board will also make decisions regarding vacant seats on the Study Commission and other county boards.

• Request to adjust building envelope/no build area for Lot 2 of the Kelly Subdivision
• Applications for two vacant seats on the Granite County Study Commission
• Discussion on County Courthouse grounds yard work and possible retaining wall replacement
• Review of monthly county claims
• Discussion on Granite Road new construction, mining claims, and general road issues

The commissioners unanimously accepted the June 3 minutes and the May monthly claims. They also unanimously voted to maintain Georgetown Lake’s outflow at 35 cubic feet per second. A 2‑to‑1 vote appointed Luke Ulatowski to the Granite County Study Commission. The board agreed to solicit bids to replace the courthouse retaining wall.

• Accepted June 3 minutes (unanimous)
• Maintained Georgetown Lake flow at 35 CFS (unanimous)
• Accepted May monthly claims (unanimous)
• Appointed Luke Ulatowski to Study Commission (2‑1, Adler dissenting)
• Agreed to solicit bids to replace courthouse retaining wall

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet to discuss road department equipment needs and a construction contract for bridge repairs. The board will also review county financials and the Georgetown Lake outflow.

• Construction contract and notice to proceed with R Rhodes Construction for South Main Street Bridge Repairs
• County Road Department trucking equipment needs
• Blackfoot Communications weed spraying and seeding in county rights-of-way
• Granite County Property Appraisal planning site visits for June 6, 2025
• Update on Russ Morrison and Randy Larson v. Granite County

The board voted to accept the May 27, 2025 meeting minutes; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Commissioners then moved to adjourn the June 3 session, which was also approved. The commission agreed to review a sample of safety inspection books.

• Approved May 27, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the June 3 meeting (motion passed)
• Agreed to review a sample of safety inspection books

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will hold a regular session with public comment and discuss several items including a FEMA flood plain letter, a new light for the courthouse flagpole, and a class action lawsuit against Purdue Pharma. The meeting will also include reports from the Road & Bridge Superintendent and the Dam Tender, as well as updates on weed spraying and solid waste policies.

• FEMA Flood Plain Letter; Discussion and Decision
• New Light for the Flagpole in the Courthouse Yard; Discussion and Decision
• Class Action Lawsuit by Local Governments Against Purdue Pharma; Action on Claims; Discussion and Decision
• Blackfoot Communications Weed Spraying and Seeding in Certain County Rights of Way and Payment Update; Discussion
• Solid Waste Site Policy Question and Library Request, Mayor Daniel Reddish; Discussion and Decision

The board unanimously accepted the May 20, 2025 minutes. They voted to reduce Georgetown Lake outflow to 35 cubic feet per second for one week. Commissioners authorized the county attorney to submit paperwork for the Purdue Pharma class‑action lawsuit. Additional unanimous actions included approving solar LED lights for the courthouse flagpole, matching $1,000 for library sidewalk repairs, approving a change order for motion‑detector switches, and approving TCS Northwest’s April payment of $49,923.61.

• Accepted May 20, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
• Reduced Georgetown Lake outflow to 35 CFS for a week (unanimous)
• Authorized County Attorney to submit Purdue Pharma lawsuit paperwork (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of solar LED lights for courthouse flagpole
• Approved $1,000 county match for library sidewalk replacement (unanimous)
• Approved change order for motion‑detector and key switches (unanimous)
• Approved TCS Northwest April payment request of $49,923.61 (unanimous)

Airport Board

The Granite County Airport Board will convene a remote Zoom meeting on May 21, 2025, to review updates on Riddick and Drummond Fields, discuss ongoing projects like the Airport Beacon replacement and wood sign replacement, and address a DNRC land-use application. The board will also consider corrections from a recent FAA inspection and open a vacant board member seat.

• Riddick Field field updates and ALP updates
• Airport Beacon replacement project status
• DNRC Land Use Application review
• FAA 5010 inspection corrections (runway number repainting, light repair, sign replacement)
• Open board member seat

The board approved the minutes from the April 16, 2025 meeting. It opened a vacant board member seat and urged members to spread the word. The board approved adding an automated gate to the new access‑road improvement. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved minutes from 16APR2025 (motion moved by Benton Rooks, seconded by Michael Thompson)
• Opened a vacant board member seat
• Approved inclusion of an automated gate with the new access‑road improvement
• Adjourned the meeting (motion moved by Eric Anderson, seconded by Michael Thompson)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet to decide on several infrastructure and community projects. Key items include a road abandonment resolution and budget requests for a skate park and dam work.

• Resolution 2025-8: Abandoning a portion of the North Fork of the Lower Willow Creek Road
• Philipsburg Skate Park budget request from Ruby Kikkert
• Georgetown Lake Outflow dam tender's report
• Flint Creek Project Comprehensive Assessment by Award Engineering Firm
• DUI Task Force Plan for discussion and signature

The commissioners approved several actions, including adopting Resolution 2025‑8 to abandon a portion of the North Fork of Lower Willow Creek Road (2‑1 vote). They also approved a $5,000 donation to the Philipsburg Skate Park, accepted the State‑Public Health Task Order contract, and endorsed the HDR Engineering proposal for the Flint Creek Dam assessment. Additional unanimous approvals covered the DUI Task Force Plan and maintaining a 40 CFS outflow for Georgetown Lake.

• Accepted May 13, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved State‑Public Health Task Order 26‑07‑6‑11‑026‑0 contract (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑8 abandoning part of North Fork of Lower Willow Creek Road (2‑1)
• Donated $5,000 to Philipsburg Skate Park (approved)
• Accepted HDR Engineering proposal for Flint Creek Dam Comprehensive Assessment (unanimous)
• Approved DUI Task Force Plan (unanimous)
• Approved stay at 40 CFS for Georgetown Lake outflow (unanimous)

Valley Fire District

The Valley Fire District Board will hold a regular meeting on May 14, 2025, at the Drummond Fire Station. The agenda consists solely of standard procedural items—call to order, public comment, treasurer's report, new business, old business, and adjournment—with no specific proposals, decisions, or discussions described in the posted agenda.

• No specific items listed in the agenda; only standard meeting segments appear.

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will discuss and decide on five-year leases with the Granite Co. Hospital District for the GC Medical Center and Drummond Clinic. The board will also review road and bridge reports and county claims.

• Proposed 5-year leases for GC Medical Center and Drummond Clinic
• Western States CAT Rental Agreement for Roller
• TCS Northwest Change Order #16 Sump Pump
• Monthly County Claims
• Future of Study Commission and advertising positions

The commissioners unanimously accepted the May 6, 2025 board minutes. They approved a 40 CFS outflow for Georgetown Lake, subject to agency approval. They unanimously accepted five‑year leases for the Granite County Medical Center and Drummond Clinic. Additional unanimous approvals included a sump‑pump change order, the May monthly claims, and the lease motions.

• Accepted May 6, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 40 CFS outflow for Georgetown Lake (unanimous)
• Approved five‑year leases for Granite County Medical Center and Drummond Clinic (unanimous)
• Approved Change Order #16 for sump pump (unanimous)
• Accepted May monthly county claims (unanimous)
• Approved lease motions for hospital and clinic (unanimous)

Georgetown Lake Fire Service Area

The Georgetown Lake Volunteer Fire Department board will review minutes, hear the treasurer's report and budget, discuss unfinished business including a radio update and Tender 5 repairs, and consider new business involving a rescue vehicle donation and its future rigging.

• Treasurer's report and budget review
• Radio update
• Tender 5 repairs
• Rescue vehicle donation and future rigging

The board unanimously approved a budget modification of up to $30,000 to repair two Type 1 engines. It also approved a $25,000 adjustment to complete a medium‑duty rescue on a donated chassis. The board authorized requesting proposals for a new tank and retrofit for water tender 5, and approved buying three CDs at $50,000 each. Finally, the board unanimously approved purchasing a commercially built water tender with pump capabilities.

• Approved up to $30,000 budget modification for engine repairs (unanimous)
• Approved up to $25,000 budget adjustment for medium‑duty rescue chassis (unanimous)
• Authorized request for proposals to purchase new tank and retrofit water tender 5 (up to $100,000) (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of three CDs, $50,000 each (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of a water tender with pump capabilities (cost >$200,000 used, >$400,000 new) (unanimous)

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular monthly meeting to approve minutes and financials, receive reports from the clerk, librarian, technology and program managers, and a Friends donation update. New business includes planning for 2025 fundraising, editing policies, completing board training hours, and reviewing Articles V–VIII of the bylaws. Old business covers a lease end for Tori Jenner, a contract evaluation, a concrete project update, and progress on Gina's office space.

• Review of bylaw Articles V (Chief Librarian and Library Budget Committee), VI (Amendments), VII (Continuing Education), and VIII (Execution of Amended Bylaws)
• Board training: need 3 members for Broad Valleys Personnel Management training on May 8
• 2025 fundraising plans — April calendar fundraiser and May ideas
• Silent Auction to be held in August 2025
• Gina's office space work days scheduled for May 18 and June 1

Granite County DUI Task Force

The Granite County DUI Task Force will hear a financial report on reinstatement fees and the current balance, review the annual budget, and discuss the annual operating plan. The sheriff will provide a report on MIP/DUI incidents. Old business includes DUI patrols and designated driver gift cards, while new business covers upcoming events, education/prevention ideas, and new member appointments.

• Financial report on reinstatement fees and current balance sheet
• Annual budget report and letter discussion
• Sheriff's MIP/DUI report
• DUI patrols and designated driver gift card program update
• Education and prevention ideas for community and schools

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will discuss and decide on multiple items including bid openings for Main Street Bridge repair, a resolution to abandon a portion of North Fork Lower Willow Creek Road, and the award of a lease for the county's Hall House. They will also review property and casualty insurance renewal and hear updates on the Georgetown Lake reservoir issues and a federal court case.

• Main Street Bridge repair bids with GreatWest Engineering, discussion and award of contract
• Resolution 2025-8 abandoning a portion of North Fork Lower Willow Creek Road (first reading)
• Granite County Medical Center and Drummond Clinic lease proposal bid openings
• Property and casualty insurance coverage review and renewal with MACo and MarshMcLennan Agency
• Georgetown Lake Dam Tender's report and letter to Governor's Office regarding reservoir issues

The board accepted the April 29, 2025 minutes, signed the new immunization grant contract, and approved maintaining Georgetown Lake outflows at 30 CFS. They also approved a letter to Governor Gianforte, the hospital and clinic lease proposals, and the Riddick Field Airport sign replacement. Finally, they signed the Montana Department of Revenue MOU and awarded the Main Street Bridge repair to R Rhodes Construction for $21,234.56, with all votes unanimous.

• Accepted April 29, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
• Signed new immunization grant contract for Public Health (unanimous)
• Approved maintaining Georgetown Lake outflows at 30 CFS (unanimous)
• Approved sending a letter to Governor Gianforte (unanimous)
• Approved Granite County Hospital District lease for hospital and Drummond Clinic (unanimous)
• Approved Riddick Field Airport sign replacement using repair line item (unanimous)
• Signed MOU with Montana Department of Revenue for transaction reimbursement (unanimous)
• Awarded Main Street Bridge repair bid to R Rhodes Construction, $21,234.56 (unanimous)

Georgetown Lake Fire Service Area

The Georgetown Lake Volunteer Fire Department is holding a regular meeting to review the treasurer's report and budget, receive updates on radio equipment and Tender 5 repairs, and discuss a potential rescue vehicle donation and its future rigging. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and public comment.

• Discussion of rescue vehicle donation and future rigging (new business)
• Update on Tender 5 repairs (unfinished business)
• Radio system update (unfinished business)
• Treasurer's report and budget review

The board voted to convert $150,000 of reserve funds into three certificates of deposit staggered over three months. A motion to seek $30,000 FSA approval for vehicle repairs was also approved. Additional motions approved included accepting the August 29, 2024 minutes, replacing the secretary with Martha Logue, and authorizing a proposal for a Tender 5 tank retrofit.

• Rex Young motion to convert $150,000 into three CDs staggered over three months – passed unanimously
• Tom Dunne motion to seek $30,000 FSA approval for vehicle repairs – passed unanimously
• Tom Dunne motion to accept August 29, 2024 meeting minutes – passed unanimously
• John Orrino motion to replace secretary Michelle Hall with Martha Logue – passed unanimously
• Mike Hayes motion to begin proposal and pricing for Tender 5 tank retrofit – passed unanimously
• Bob Logue agreed to create a policy for issuing turnouts and radios (no formal vote recorded)
• Fred Bjorklund motion to purchase a new CD for $150,000 – discussed but not voted
• Bob Logue motion to obtain 2025 DNRC Wildland Grant – discussed but not voted

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet to discuss employee safety guidelines, tax delinquencies, and the potential re-joining of the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority. The body will also decide on the abandonment of a specific road and the termination of billing and lease services for Granite County Public Safety LLC.

• North Fork of Lower Willow Creek Road Abandonment public decision meeting
• Termination of billing services and ambulance shed lease for Granite County Public Safety LLC
• Discussion on Granite County re-joining the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority
• Surplus bid opening and award for a 2017 Ford Explorer Sheriff’s Vehicle
• Discussion on delinquent property taxes within the Town of Drummond

The commissioners unanimously approved the April 22 minutes, adopted a county safety and training policy for road and solid‑waste staff, and set Georgetown Lake outflow at 20 cfs. They also accepted a $787.87 surplus bid for a 2017 Ford Explorer and terminated Granite Public Safety LLC’s ambulance‑shed lease. By a 2‑1 vote, the board approved abandoning the North Fork of Lower Willow Creek Road, while the Big Sky Rail Authority item was tabled for future consideration.

• Approved April 22, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted safety and training policy for road and solid‑waste employees (unanimous)
• Set Georgetown Lake outflow to 20 cfs (unanimous)
• Accepted surplus bid $787.87 for 2017 Ford Explorer (unanimous)
• Terminated Granite Public Safety LLC ambulance‑shed lease (unanimous)
• Abandon North Fork of Lower Willow Creek Road (2‑1)
• Big Sky Rail Authority item tabled (no vote)

County Commissioners

The commission will consider a draft application for a RDG Planning Grant with GreatWest, discuss and decide on Donovan Jones' airport hangar lease and Michael Foley's lease rescission, and review weekly reports from Road & Bridge and Solid Waste. They will also discuss the Philipsburg Ambulance update and health insurance options for county employees through MACO. A dam tender's report on Georgetown Lake outflow and county claims will be reviewed.

• RDG Planning Grant Draft Application with GreatWest
• Donovan Jones' Airport Hangar Lease and Michael Foley's Lease Rescission
• Weekly report from Road & Bridge Superintendent Paul Alt and Solid Waste report
• Philipsburg Ambulance Update
• MACO Health Insurance Options for County Employees

The board accepted the April 15, 2025 meeting minutes without dissent. A motion to keep Georgetown Lake outflows consistent with inflows was passed unanimously. The commissioners also approved the March 2025 County Claims by unanimous vote.

• Accepted April 15, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to keep Georgetown Lake outflows consistent with inflows (unanimous)
• Accepted March 2025 County Claims (unanimous)

Study Commission - Local Government Review Board

The Granite County Study Commission will consider and decide on survey questions related to the local government review. They will also discuss whether to hire outside help for preparing meeting minutes and consider adjusting the meeting start time. The meeting includes approval of the March 20 minutes and public comment.

• Review and decision on survey questions
• Discussion of potential outside help for minutes
• Discussion of meeting time adjournment when meetings start at 7 p.m.
• Approval of March 20, 2025 minutes

Airport Board

The Granite County Airport Board will review and discuss several ongoing projects including required runway corrections from a 5010 inspection, updates to Riddick Field's Airport Layout Plan, replacement of the airport beacon, a land use application with DNRC, and relocation of Northwestern Energy utilities. The board will also consider options for replacing the wood airport sign and installing cameras at Riddick Field. Previous meeting minutes will be approved.

• 5010 Inspection Review Corrections (repaint runway numbers, runway light repair, runway ID sign)
• Riddick Field ALP updates
• Airport Beacon replacement updates
• DNRC Land Use Application
• Northwestern Energy utility service relocation

The Airport Board voted to approve the minutes from the March 19, 2025 meeting. No new business or public comments were presented. The board then adjourned the meeting. All other items were discussed without formal votes.

• Approved March 19, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Eric Anderson, seconded by Benton Rooks)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Gary Snyder, seconded by Eric Anderson)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to discuss and adopt board bylaws and decide on a foodborne disease outbreak response. The meeting includes reports from the county sanitarian, tobacco prevention, and public health nurse.

• Discussion and adoption of Bylaws of Granite County Board of Health
• Decision on Foodborne Disease Outbreak Response
• Selection of Chairperson
• Sanitarian Report with Chad Lanes
• Tobacco Prevention Report with Amanda Bohrer

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet to decide on several infrastructure and administrative matters. Key discussions include a potential objection to a railway line abandonment and updates on bridge repairs.

• Bid proposal for South Main Street bridge repair over Clark Fork
• Decision on possible objection to MRL's proposed abandonment of railway line
• Surplus auction and bid notice for a 2017 Ford Explorer from the Sheriff's Office
• Speed study updates for Montana Highway 1 through Hall, MT
• Discussion on North Fork of Lower Willow Creek Road abandonment

The commissioners unanimously approved several motions: accepting the Board of Health minutes, keeping Georgetown Lake outflows at 20 CFS, advertising a surplus 2017 Ford Explorer for two weeks, accepting March 2025 claims, renting the Georgetown Lake chapel with zero rent and a $500 deposit, and designating Zenith View LLC as the state‑approved substance‑use disorder provider. They also tabled the bridge repair item and the North Fork road easement item for future discussion.

• Accepted Board of Health minutes for April 8, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved maintaining Georgetown Lake outflow at 20 CFS (unanimous)
• Approved two‑week newspaper notice for surplus 2017 Ford Explorer (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of March 2025 county claims (unanimous)
• Tabled Bridge South Main Street over Clark Fork repair item (future agenda)
• Tabled North Fork of Lower Willow Creek Road easement item for two weeks (future agenda)
• Approved renting Georgetown Lake chapel on July 25, 2026, zero rent, $500 deposit (unanimous)
• Approved designating Zenith View LLC as state‑approved substance‑use disorder provider (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will discuss and decide on a letter of support for the Town of Philipsburg's congressionally directed spending request for a water project. Other actions include awarding gravel bids based on lowest cost and geographical need, reviewing the Georgetown Lake Dam tender's report, and considering a grant proposal for community-level mental health prevention. The board will also consider an interlocal agreement with the Montana Department of Justice regarding the motor vehicle system and hear a financial report from the DUI Task Force.

• Gravel bids awarded based on lowest cost and geographical need
• Dam Tender's report on Georgetown Lake outflow
• Philipsburg Youth Athletic Club cleanup project assistance request
• Grant proposal for community-level mental health prevention/intervention
• Interlocal agreement with MT DOJ regarding the motor vehicle system

The commissioners unanimously approved a $250,000 two‑year grant for community mental‑health prevention, set a $5.50 minimum charge for solid‑waste overages, awarded gravel contracts, and adjusted the Georgetown Lake outflow to 20 CFS. They also approved a fence and gravel project for the Philipsburg Youth Athletic Club, a letter of support for the town’s water‑line project, and agreed to pursue a dam‑assessment grant while continuing negotiations on a new interlocal agreement with the state.

• Approved $250,000 mental‑health grant proposal (unanimous)
• Adopted $5.50 minimum charge for solid‑waste overages (unanimous)
• Awarded gravel contracts: 10,000 yd to Bob Weaver, 2,500 yd to T3 Rock Products, 2,500 yd to 348 Gravel (unanimous)
• Set Georgetown Lake outflow to 20 CFS pending agency approval (unanimous)
• Approved fence and gravel work for PYAC bin site (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Philipsburg water‑line project (unanimous)
• Accepted DUI Task Force financial report (unanimous)
• Proceed with interlocal agreement approach while negotiating better terms (unanimous)

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Philipsburg Library Board will hold its regular monthly meeting to approve minutes and financials, hear reports from staff and committees, and conduct new and old business. Key discussions include using 2024 silent auction proceeds to pay down the library's mortgage, reviewing by-laws Articles III and IV, and planning for the August 2025 silent auction. Board training hours, a program manager update, and Dorene Pfendler's evaluation/contract are also on the agenda.

• Discussion of using 2024 silent auction funds to pay down the library mortgage
• Review of by-laws Articles III (Meetings) and IV (Library Access and Hours)
• Silent auction planning for August 2025, including donation forms and advertising
• Dorene Pfendler's evaluation and contract date setting
• Board training hours: 2/3 hours completed, need additional hour by end of June

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will review reports from the Road & Bridge Superintendent and the Georgetown Lake Outflow dam tender. The board will decide on two Congressional Directed Spending applications for Fiscal Year 2026 and update the Community Wildfire Protection Plan.

• Bid openings and awarding of contracts for gravel and annual trucking
• Decision on two Congressional Directed Spending Applications for Fiscal Year 2026
• Updating the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP)
• Review and decision on Georgetown Lake Outflow Dam Tender’s Report

The board unanimously approved the grant application to update Granite County’s Community Wildfire Protection Plan. They also approved a dam flow increase to 20 CFS, accepted all gravel bids for up to 15,000 yards, and approved the Greany Trucking hauling bid. Additional actions included signing dam and bridge project applications, appointing a tax‑appeal board member, and accepting the March 25 minutes.

• Approved grant application to update CWPP (unanimous)
• Approved dam flow increase to 20 CFS (unanimous)
• Accepted all gravel bids up to 15,000 yards (unanimous)
• Accepted Greany Trucking 18‑yard trucking bid at $145 per hour (unanimous)
• Approved signing of Flint Creek Dam and Gold Coin Road Bridge applications (unanimous)
• Approved appointment to Granite County Tax Appeal Board (unanimous)
• Accepted March 25, 2025 board minutes (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will hold a regular session to discuss and decide on multiple items, including a tile change order for TCS Northwest, congressionally directed spending requests for fiscal year 2026, a camera proposal for Riddick Field Airport, and appointments to the DUI Task Force. Public comment is invited on any agenda item.

• TCS Northwest Contractors Tile Change Order; discussion and decision
• Congressionally Directed Spending Requests for FY26; discussion and decision
• Camera Proposal for Riddick Field Airport; discussion and decision
• Tri-County Fair Board Member Resignation; discussion and decision
• Licensed Addiction Counselor Keanah Vushon appointed DUI Task Force Board Member; discussion

The board voted unanimously to apply for Congressionally Directed Spending funds: up to $750,000 for the Flint Creek Dam with a 25% county match, and up to $300,000 for bridge projects with a 25% match. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Kulaski and passed unanimously. Additional actions included accepting a $22,993.62 tile change order, matching Georgetown Lake inflows and outflows, and approving airport camera installation.

• Approved application for up to $750,000 dam grant (25% match) (unanimous)
• Approved application for up to $300,000 bridge grant (25% match) (unanimous)
• Accepted tile change order #013 for courthouse restroom walls, $22,993.62 (unanimous)
• Moved to match Georgetown Lake inflows with outflows (unanimous)
• Approved camera installation at Riddick Field Airport, $2,000‑$2,500 (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of county employee, effective May 30, 2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Tri‑County Fair Board member (unanimous)
• Posted Tri‑County Fair Board vacancy for 2 weeks (unanimous)

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will tour and plan renovations for the upstairs office space. The meeting includes decisions regarding a program manager hire and an ALA grant for concrete work.

• Hiring of Program Manager
• ALA Grant for concrete work
• April $20.25 Calendar Idea
• Planning for upstairs office space renovation

Study Commission - Local Government Review Board

This is a routine procedural meeting of the Granite County Study Commission. The agenda includes approval of January 16th minutes, discussion of public and government communications, and rescheduling of a public meeting. No substantive decisions or fiscal actions are listed.

• Approval of minutes from January 16, 2025
• Rescheduling of a public meeting

The commission approved the January 16 meeting minutes unanimously and noted that the February meeting was cancelled due to illness. The chair agreed to reach out to Montana State University to arrange a presentation by Dan Clark for a public meeting. The commission set communication to go through County Clerk Sarah Graham and assigned Miranda to post items on the county website. The next commission meeting was scheduled for April 17, 2025.

• Approved January 16, 2025 meeting minutes (all yeas, none opposed)
• Motion to adjourn the March 20 meeting passed (all yeas, none opposed)
• Chair Leeper will contact MSU to inquire about dates for Dan Clark to present to the public
• All commission communications will be routed through County Clerk Sarah Graham
• Miranda will place commission items on the Granite County website
• Next Study Commission meeting set for Thursday, April 17, 2025 at 7:00 PM

Airport Board

The board approved the minutes from the February 19, 2025 meeting. It adopted a recommendation to present a camera installation proposal for Riddick Field to the County Commissioners. The next regular meeting was scheduled for April 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. The meeting was adjourned after a motion.

• Approved February 19, 2025 board minutes (motion passed)
• Recommended Riddick Field camera proposal be presented to Commissioners
• Scheduled next regular meeting for 16APR2025 at 19:00 via Zoom
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners are holding a regular session on March 18, 2025, with a full agenda including public comment, reports, and decisions. A key item is a meeting with U.S. Forest Service District Ranger Cameron Rasor to discuss Lakeshore Drive and other roads, and potential agreements with USFS. Other matters include approval of claims, a closed session for a personnel matter, and a working meeting on road crew training and safety policies.

• Meeting with Forest Service District Ranger Cameron Rasor on Lakeshore Drive and other roads, and potential agreements with USFS
• Discussion and decision on Civic Plus website hosting contract for county website
• Closed session for a personnel matter
• Working meeting on county road crew training and safety policies
• OAC meeting with TCS Northwest regarding courthouse elevator/bathroom project

The Granite County Commissioners approved several actions, including moving forward with a Civic Plus website hosting plan, placing an ad for a road position, and increasing Georgetown Lake outflow to 20 CFS subject to agency approval. They also accepted applications for the Board of Health and approved February claims. A potential change order for the courthouse elevator project was accepted for next week's agenda.

• Approved board minutes for March 11, 2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted Jessica Martin's application for Board of Health (unanimous)
• Accepted Michelle Kirsch's application for Board of Health (unanimous)
• Approved motion to proceed to 20 CFS outflow at Georgetown Lake, subject to agency approval (unanimous)
• Approved February 2025 claims (unanimous)
• Approved proceeding with Civic Plus premium website plan, with costs covered by PILT and county building fund (unanimous)
• Approved placing an ad for a road position (unanimous)
• Accepted potential change order for courthouse elevator project to be placed on next week's agenda (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Granite County Board of Health will hear a public health policy transition update from Jackie Bolster and Scott Adler, and review its bylaws for possible amendments. Additional items include approval of minutes, a new board member and chairperson update, and reports from the sanitarian, tobacco prevention program, public health nurse, and local health officer. All items are for discussion or decision; no specific dollar amounts or project names appear on the agenda.

• Public Health Policy Transition Update with Jackie Bolster and Scott Adler (discussion)
• Review Board of Health Bylaws (discussion and decision)
• New Board Members and Chairperson Update (discussion and decision)
• Granite County Sanitarian Report with Chad Lanes (discussion)
• Granite County Tobacco Prevention Report with Amanda Bohrer and Public Health Nurse Report with Deb Robinson (discussion)

The Granite County Board of Health met on March 11, 2025, but lacked a quorum, so no formal decisions were made. The meeting minutes and a review of proposed amended Bylaws were tabled until a future meeting with a quorum. The board received updates on public health policy, children's activities, PHEP plans, and a measles vaccination notification effort.

• Meeting minutes approval tabled due to lack of quorum
• Bylaws review tabled until a quorum is present
• No other formal actions taken

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners are holding a public meeting on March 11, 2025, to discuss and make a decision regarding the abandonment of the MT Rail Link. The meeting will be held in person in the courthouse courtroom, and no other agenda items are listed.

• Public hearing and decision on MT Rail Link abandonment

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will discuss road gravel and trucking bids for 2025 and a PPE policy for road crews. The body will also address board appointments and the leasing of GCMC and Drummond Clinic buildings.

• Public meeting regarding MT Rail Link Abandonment
• Bidding for 2025 road gravel and trucking needs
• Payment application and certificate for TCS Northwest LLC
• Notice to lease GCMC and Drummond Clinic buildings and premises
• Appointment of DUI Task Force Board Member and Tri-County Fair Board members

The Board approved a competitive public bidding process for up to 15,000 yards of gravel, with the county handling hauling but allowing for trucking bids in emergencies. They also voted to keep Georgetown Lake outflows at 15 CFS, accepted February claims, and made several appointments to county boards. The meeting included a public informational session on the MT Rail Link abandonment.

• Approved bid for up to 15,000 yards of gravel (unanimous)
• Approved staying at 15 CFS outflows at Georgetown Lake (unanimous)
• Accepted February 2025 claims (unanimous)
• Approved payment to TCS Northwest LLC (unanimous)
• Appointed Dee Dunkerson to Granite County DUI Task Force (unanimous)
• Appointed Dawn Ries, Amanda Bohrer, and Keanah Vushon to DUI Task Force (unanimous)
• Approved advertising open county boards in local newspaper (unanimous)
• Approved advertising intent to lease GCMC and Drummond Clinic buildings for 5 weeks (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Safety Committee will receive updates from departments including roads, jail, courthouse, and solid waste, and will schedule a work session to update the DOT Safety Program policy. The meeting includes routine approval of minutes and a claims report from Payne West.

• Payne West update – claims report
• Courthouse maintenance update from Dee Dunkerson
• Jail update from Valerie Cartwright
• Roads and solid waste container site updates from Paul Alt
• Schedule work session to update DOT Safety Program policy

Granite County DUI Task Force

The DUI Task Force will review financial reports on reinstatement fees and a sheriff's report on MIP/DUI activity. The body will discuss DUI patrols, addiction prevention, and community education ideas. The agenda includes the appointment of Keanah Vushon, a Licensed Addiction Counselor, to the task force.

• Appointment of Keanah Vushon, Licensed Addiction Counselor
• Financial report on reinstatement fees and current balance
• Sheriff's MIP/DUI report
• Discussion of Survivor (Addiction Prevention) Lock-in Night
• Review of designated driver gift cards

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will hold a regular session on March 4, 2025, discussing and deciding on multiple items including solid waste policy revisions, a C-PACE program resolution, a hazard mitigation plan, a binding agreement with Coast 2 Coast Public Safety, and updates on a US DOT Build Grant for local roads. Public comment is invited on any agenda item.

• Second reading and decision on Resolution 2025-5 establishing a County C-PACE program
• Second reading and decision on Resolution 2025-7 adopting a new Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Discussion and decision on a binding agreement with leases for Coast 2 Coast Public Safety
• County Solid Waste Policy Revisions – discussion and decision
• Update on US DOT Build Grant options for local roads

The Board unanimously approved the revised Granite County Solid Waste District's Policies (March 4, 2025 Revision), which include changes to hours, an $8 minimum dump charge, and modifications to the overage section. They also unanimously approved a model contract between the county and local businesses to align tax assessments with actual annual waste usage. The board additionally accepted the Yearly Fuel Tax Certification Map, adopted Resolution 2025-5 establishing a C-PACE program, adopted Resolution 2025-7 for a new Hazard Mitigation Plan, and approved a Public Map Viewer agreement with Maps, Inc.

• Approved revised Solid Waste District Policies (March 4, 2025 Revision)
• Approved model contract for local businesses' annual waste units
• Accepted and signed Yearly Fuel Tax Certification Map
• Adopted Resolution 2025-5 establishing a County C-PACE program
• Adopted Resolution 2025-7 adopting a new Hazard Mitigation Plan with Addendum
• Approved Public Map Viewer and agreement with Maps, Inc.
• Approved Binding Agreement with leases and billing for Granite Public Safety LLC
• Appointed Allison Cash to Philipsburg Cemetery District and Vicki Harding to Compensation Board

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will hold a public hearing and first reading on a resolution to establish a County C-Pace Program, a financing mechanism for energy improvements. They will also discuss flood preparation with the Town of Drummond, review the Georgetown Lake dam tender’s report, and consider adopting a new Hazard Mitigation Plan. Additionally, the board will sign an inter-agency MOU for the Southwest Montana Drug Task Force and receive weekly reports from the Road & Bridge and Solid Waste departments.

• Public hearing on C-Pace Program, a property-assessed clean energy financing program
• First reading of Resolution No. 2025-5 establishing a County C-Pace Program
• First reading of Resolution No. 2025-7 adopting a new Hazard Mitigation Plan with addendum
• Review and sign Southwest Montana Drug Task Force Inter-Agency Memorandum of Understanding
• Discussion on flood preparation for the Town of Drummond with Gail Leeper

The commission approved and adopted the C-PACE program, allowing commercial, industrial, and agricultural property owners to finance energy-efficient improvements through a property tax assessment. The motion passed 2-1 with Commissioner Adler dissenting. The commission also approved the Southwest Montana Drug Task Force MOU and discussed a new hazard mitigation plan, which will be considered for adoption next week.

• Approved and adopted C-PACE program (2-1)
• Approved and signed SWMT Drug Task Force MOU (unanimous)
• Approved board minutes for February 18, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved motion to maintain Georgetown Lake outflow at 15 CFS, with potential increase next week (unanimous)
• Discussed Resolution 2025-7 (Hazard Mitigation Plan) - first reading only, second reading next week

Study Commission - Local Government Review Board

This meeting of the Granite County Study Commission is largely procedural, including approval of previous minutes, public comment, and updates on communication with the public and government entities. No substantive decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of January 16th minutes
• Public comment period
• Communication with public and government entity
• Scheduling of next public meeting on March 20, 2025

Airport Board

The Granite County Airport Board meeting on February 19, 2025, was called to order but no members were present, so no formal decisions were made. The minutes note that the final Airport Layout Plan (ALP) was approved and signed by Commissioners on January 21, 2025, and the fully executed drawings and FAA approval letter were received on February 10, 2025. Additionally, a Northwestern Energy proposal for a 400-amp underground utility service was accepted by Commissioners on February 18, 2025, and submitted to NWE, with the amount included in the MDT Beacon Grant.

• No quorum; no decisions made at this meeting
• Final ALP approved and signed by Commissioners (21JAN2025)
• Fully executed ALP drawings and FAA approval letter received (10FEB2025)
• Northwestern Energy 400a underground service proposal accepted by Commissioners (18FEB2025)

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Philipsburg Community Library Board will approve minutes and financials, hear reports, and discuss several facility improvements. New business includes a review of completed policies, hiring a program manager, and potential purchases of a pergola, porch enclosure, or shed. Old business continues discussion on using 2024 silent auction funds for mortgage payments.

• Review of completed policies (18 months in development)
• Discussion and action on a pergola purchase for the courtyard by Friends group
• Proposal to close in the back porch with fiberglass
• Shed option for book donations
• Second and final reading of the Bookkeeping Clerk policy

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will meet to discuss and decide on several operational matters, including a subdivision plat and road safety. The board will also review agreements with Northwestern Energy and the USGS.

• Twin Willows Subdivision Preliminary Plat decision
• Decision on flashing lights on Highway 1 in Hall
• Northwestern Energy Customer Agreement for Riddick Field and Granite County
• GreatWest Task Orders #11 and #12
• USGS Agreement Scope of Work

The Granite County Commissioners approved the Twin Willows Subdivision preliminary plat with 24 conditions, authorized a letter regarding HB369, and approved several agreements including Northwestern Energy and Great West Engineering task orders. They also moved to 15 CFS for Georgetown Lake outflow and approved January claims. The meeting included discussions on road safety, litigation, and state funding.

• Approved Twin Willows Subdivision preliminary plat with 24 conditions (unanimous)
• Approved letter to State Senator Becky Beard regarding MT HB369 (unanimous)
• Approved Georgetown Lake outflow to 15 CFS (unanimous)
• Approved January 2025 claims (unanimous)
• Approved letter requesting speed study and flashing lights on Highway 1 in Hall (unanimous)
• Approved Northwestern Energy customer agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Great West Engineering Task Orders #11 and #12 (unanimous)
• Approved USGS Agreement Scope of Work (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The commissioners will decide on minutes, claims, and several agreements including a USGS scope of work and opioid abatement region bylaws. They will discuss whether to support or oppose Montana House Bill 369 and consider a resolution opposing legislation that would limit the Montana Association of Counties' lobbying activities. A closed session is scheduled for a personnel matter.

• Discussion on Montana House Bill 369 — to oppose or support
• Resolution 2025-6 opposing legislation limiting or prohibiting MACo lobbying
• Working session on Granite Disposal and Granite County contract
• USGS agreement — review scope of work and sign
• Opioid Abatement Region 4 Bylaws — approve and sign

The commission voted to oppose Montana House Bill 369, which would allow road maintenance districts to bypass county commissioners, and directed the county attorney to testify against it. They also renewed the MACo Healthcare Trust for FY 25-26 with a $1,578 monthly contribution per eligible employee, and adopted Resolution 2025-6 opposing legislation limiting MACo lobbying. The USGS agreement was tabled for further review.

• Opposed HB 369 and directed County Attorney to testify (unanimous)
• Approved MACo Healthcare Trust renewal for FY 25-26 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-6 opposing limits on MACo lobbying (unanimous)
• Approved January 2025 claims (unanimous)
• Approved staying at 12 CFS release at Flint Creek Dam (unanimous)
• Accepted Opioid Abatement Region 4 Bylaws (unanimous)
• Tabled USGS agreement scope of work until next week

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Philipsburg Library Board of Trustees is meeting solely to participate in an online training session titled 'Connecting with Local Government Officials.' No other business, decisions, or actions are scheduled. The meeting is procedural and contains no items requiring public comment or votes.

• Attending online training 'Connecting with Local Government Officials'

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will hold a regular session on February 4, 2025, addressing a second reading of Resolution 2025-4 to establish a county C-PACE program, a discussion on the impact of grant cuts via a letter to Montana senators, and a decision on a petition to abandon a portion of North Fork of Lower Willow Creek for an irrigation district easement. Other actions include approving previous minutes, reviewing a portable sanitation service contract, and opening bids for a surplus sheriff's vehicle.

• Resolution 2025-4: Second reading to establish a County C-PACE Program
• Letter to Montana senators regarding impact of grant cuts
• Petition for abandonment of portion of North Fork of Lower Willow Creek for irrigation district easement
• Sweet Pea Sewer & Septic Portable Sanitation Service Contract (review and sign)
• Surplus bid opening for 2017 Ford Explorer sheriff vehicle (plate 46-0063B)

The commission adopted Resolution 2025-4 to establish a County C-PACE program, allowing energy-efficient projects to be financed via tax assessment loans, with a 2-1 vote (Commissioner Adler dissenting). They also approved a portable sanitation service contract for solid waste sites, sent letters to U.S. Senators about state-level grant cuts, and tabled the Lower Willow Creek road abandonment petition pending irrigation district review. No bids were received for a surplus sheriff's vehicle, and the commission will consult the sheriff on its disposition.

• Adopted Resolution 2025-4 establishing County C-PACE program (2-1, Adler dissenting)
• Approved Sweet Pea Sewer and Septic Portable Sanitation Service Contract (unanimous)
• Approved sending letters to U.S. Senators about grant cuts (unanimous)
• Tabled Lower Willow Creek road abandonment petition pending irrigation district review
• No bids received for surplus 2017 Ford Explorer; commission to consult sheriff
• Approved motion requiring Zoom attendees to have video/mic on (unanimous)
• Approved Georgetown Lake outflow at 12 CFS (unanimous)
• Accepted board minutes for January 28, 2025 (unanimous)

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Philipsburg Library Board will consider final approval of several personnel policies on second reading, and a motion to approve the 2025 Strategic Plan. They will also review by-laws articles, discuss fundraising efforts, and address rental of basement office space. Financials and minutes from December are up for approval.

• Second and final reading of policies for Library Director, Evaluation of Employees, Assistant Librarian, and other staff
• First reading of Bookkeeping Clerk policy
• Motion to approve the 2025 Strategic Plan
• Discussion of basement office rental (3-month lease with month-to-month option)
• Review of by-laws Articles I and II (Board of Trustees and Officers/Duties)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will hold a first reading and discussion of Resolution 2025-4 to establish a County C-PACE program for energy financing. They will also discuss the Northwestern Energy power pole replacement at Riddick Field and consider appointments to Valley and Philipsburg Cemetery District boards. Operational matters include road and bridge reports, solid waste updates, and a bulk fuel purchase rotation.

• First reading of Resolution 2025-4 establishing County C-PACE program
• Discussion and decision on Northwestern Energy power pole replacement at Riddick Field
• Appointment of independent trustees for Valley and Philipsburg Cemetery Boards
• Discussion on rotating bulk fuel purchase
• Review of Georgetown Lake outflow dam tender's report

The commission voted unanimously to petition District Court to appoint the county as financial trustee for the Philipsburg and Valley cemetery districts, with quarterly financial reporting. They also approved keeping the Georgetown Lake outflow at 10 CFS per FERC order, and discussed but did not finalize a C-PACE program resolution, a power pole replacement project, and other items.

• Approved minutes for January 21, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved motion to petition court for financial trusteeship of cemetery districts (unanimous)
• Approved keeping Georgetown Lake outflow at 10 CFS (unanimous)
• Discussed Resolution 2025-4 for C-PACE program; no action taken
• Discussed power pole replacement at Riddick Field; no action taken

Philipsburg Community Library Board of Trustees

The Philipsburg Area Community Library Board of Directors, along with the Friends of the Library and community members, will develop the 2025 Strategic Plan for the library. The meeting will use 2025 Survey Results and input from attendees to shape the plan. All community members are encouraged to attend and contribute.

• Developing 2025 Strategic Plan for the library
• Using 2025 Survey Results to guide priorities
• Input from board members, Friends of the Library, and community members
• Meeting open to all community members

Board of Health

The Granite County Board of Health will hold its quarterly meeting on January 21, 2025. The board will select a chairperson and review its bylaws, with discussion and decision on both. Reports will be presented by the county sanitarian, tobacco prevention program, public health nurse, and the local health officer. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and planning for the next quarterly meeting.

• Selection of chairperson for the Board of Health
• Review and decision on Board of Health Bylaws
• Granite County Sanitarian Report with Chad Lanes (discussion)
• Granite County Tobacco Prevention Report with Amanda Bohrer (discussion)
• Public Health Nurse Report with Deb Robinson and PHEP Report (discussion)

County Commissioners

The commissioners will hold a public hearing and decide on a petition to abandon a portion of the North Fork of the Lower Willow Creek Road. They will also discuss an exemption for Montana Rail Link's line abandonment. Other business includes reports from Road & Bridge and Solid Waste, bulk fuel purchases, the Dam Tender's Report on Georgetown Lake outflow, review of claims, an update from the Philipsburg Skate Park Association, and signatures for the Riddick Field Airport Layout Plan. A closed session for a personnel matter is scheduled.

• Public hearing and decision on a petition to abandon a portion of the North Fork of Lower Willow Creek Road.
• Discussion on Montana Rail Link abandonment exemption with representatives Jack Owens, Joe Racicot, and Joe Gentri.
• Discussion and decision on weekly reports from Road & Bridge and Solid Waste, and rotating bulk fuel purchases.
• Review and decision on the Dam Tender's Report for Georgetown Lake outflow.
• Discussion and decision on Riddick Field Airport Layout Plan signatures.

The commission approved the petition to abandon the North Fork of the Lower Willow Creek Road, conditional on the Lower Willow Creek Irrigation District Board agreeing to a permanent easement proposed by landowner Dave Peitz and recording it with the Clerk & Recorder. The resolution for abandonment will not appear on the agenda until the easement is recorded. The motion passed unanimously.

• Approved petition to abandon North Fork of Lower Willow Creek Road, conditional on recorded easement (unanimous)
• Approved board minutes for January 14, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved monthly county claims for December 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved staying at 10 CFS for Georgetown Lake outflow (unanimous)
• Approved signing Riddick Field Airport Layout Plan (unanimous)

Valley Cemetery District Board

The Valley Cemetery District Board approved a motion to increase Desi's pay to $2,500 per month. Members also reviewed lawn mower bids and discussed attending a commissioner's meeting, but no final decision on the mower was recorded.

• Approved pay raise for Desi to $2,500 per month
• Discussed lawn mower bids; no formal action taken
• Ron and William to attend commissioner's meeting on Jan. 28

Study Commission - Local Government Review Board

The Granite County Study Commission will meet to discuss and decide on its bylaws. The board will also address points of contact and mileage claim sheets.

• Decision on commission bylaws
• Coordination with Town of Philipsburg Study Commission
• Review of mileage claim sheets

The Granite County Study Commission approved its bylaws, setting monthly meetings on the third Thursday and public posting requirements. The commission also discussed website plans, alternate meeting locations, and property tax concerns, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved December 23, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Granite County Study Commission Bylaws (unanimous)

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners meet to discuss road and bridge and solid waste reports, a dam tender's report on Georgetown Lake outflow, and a VOCA grant update. They will hold second readings and decisions on three annual resolutions for 2025: meeting dates and courthouse hours, mileage and lodging per diem for travel, and the daily incarceration rate. The board also discusses the C-Pace program for energy-efficient loans and will award a bid for the courthouse roof project. Closed sessions are scheduled for personnel matters.

• Second reading and decision on Resolution 2025-3 setting daily incarceration rate for calendar year 2025
• Second reading and decision on Resolution 2025-2 establishing mileage, lodging, and per diem for business travel for 2025
• Second reading and decision on Resolution 2025-1 establishing regular commission meeting dates and courthouse hours for 2025
• Discussion and decision on awarding the courthouse roof project bid
• Discussion with Kelly Sullivan, Headwaters RC&D, on Granite County's participation in the C-Pace program for low-cost energy efficiency loans

The Granite County Commissioners rejected all bids for the courthouse roof project after bids came in over double the expected $200,000, and will rebid once issues with Slate Architecture are resolved. They also approved the C-PACE program for energy-efficient building loans (2-1), adopted several 2025 resolutions, and approved routine items like minutes, claims, and the USGS gauge payment.

• Rejected courthouse roof bids as unreasonable; will rebid (unanimous)
• Approved C-PACE program for energy-efficient loans (2-1, Adler dissenting)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-1 setting 2025 meeting dates and office hours (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-2 for mileage, lodging, and per diem rates (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-3 setting daily incarceration rate (unanimous)
• Approved December 2024 county claims (unanimous)
• Approved USGS gauge annual payment (unanimous)
• Approved VOCA grant agreement signature page (unanimous)

Valley Fire District

The Valley Fire District Board will meet to conduct routine business and elect new officers. The meeting includes a treasurer's report and a period for public comment.

• Election of new officers

County Commissioners

The Granite County Commissioners will convene a regular session to discuss and decide on routine administrative matters including selection of a commission chair for 2025, approval of minutes, and various operational reports. Key actions include awarding a bid for the Courthouse Roof Project and first readings of three resolutions establishing 2025 meeting dates, travel reimbursement rates, and daily incarceration rates. Commissioners will also discuss a letter of support for a watershed grant and consider audio/video upgrades for meetings.

• Selection of a Commission Chair for 2025
• Courthouse Roof Project bid opening and award decision
• First reading of County Resolution 2025-1: Regular meeting dates and courthouse hours
• First reading of County Resolution 2025-2: Mileage, lodging, and per diem rates
• First reading of County Resolution 2025-3: Daily incarceration rate for 2025

The Granite County Commissioners approved a motion to require all commissioners to appear on video via Zoom and to purchase an Owl audio/video system from DIS, with Commissioner Adler dissenting. They also unanimously selected Commissioner Adler as chair for 2025, accepted the December 31, 2024 minutes, and approved a letter of support for the Granite Headwaters Watershed Group. The courthouse roof project bid award was tabled for further review.

• Selected Commissioner Adler as 2025 Commission Chair (unanimous)
• Approved video/audio upgrade for meetings, including Owl purchase (2-1, Adler dissenting)
• Approved letter of support for Granite Headwaters Watershed Group (unanimous)
• Tabled courthouse roof project bid award
• Raised Georgetown Lake outflow to 10 CFS (unanimous)