Billings County

The agenda includes commissioner and department head reports, road superintendent and engineering updates, USFS updates, and discussion on zoning, pipeline permits, and election updates. Additionally, the commission will conduct a bid opening for Kubas Scoria, address a letter of support regarding a land swap request, review revenue and expenditure vouchers, deliberate on increasing election worker pay, and consider a water request from the Paasch Well Medora Grazing Association.

The commission addressed various county operations, including the approval of a Memorandum of Understanding for temporary siren/radio equipment, the acceptance of state funding for the Clerk of Court, and the approval of increased EMS billing rates. Reports were provided regarding weed control, ambulance services, and road and bridge projects, including the awarding of an HSIP guardrail project. The board also reviewed a scoria lease, financial reports, and potential use of YouTube for meeting recordings. A proposal for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library alcohol license was tabled, and actions were taken regarding fiber installation applications, pledge reports, and easements. A bid was awarded for a gravel and crushing project, and various claims and revenues were processed. During a joint meeting, the board authorized the Buffalo Gap Road Extension and selected an engineering firm for the project. Further actions included the approval of a land purchase agreement, the adoption of a Floodplain Management Ordinance amendment, and updates to campground regulations.

The commission discussed the potential purchase of a six-wheeled ATV and addressed public comments regarding the closure of a highway exit and dust and speed concerns on county roads. A petition to increase the number of county commissioners from three to five on the upcoming ballot was reviewed. The commission authorized the designation of a closing agent for a land purchase near the county shop. Department heads provided updates, including weed control staffing, EMS training and awards, and fire protection district grant status. Finally, the commission considered the approval of a multi-county hazard mitigation plan.

The Commission addressed engineering and road reports, including the East River Road Shared-Use Path, Buffalo Gap Extension, and the 135th area construction. Equipment purchases were approved for a loader, a tractor, and three mowers. The board authorized the removal of a CMC designation and approved a scoria lease and a beer and liquor license for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. Additionally, the commission approved maintenance salary adjustments, various zoning and rezone applications, utility and right-of-way permits, and a funding agreement with the ND Supreme Court. Discussions were held regarding an airstrip proposal, veteran memorial history, insurance renewals, and department updates. The commission also reviewed election inspector appointments, a petition to increase the number of county commissioners, and authorized temporary repairs for the Roughrider State Park access road. A special meeting was also conducted regarding the installation and policy oversight of county surveillance cameras.

The commission held a special meeting to discuss the issue of surveillance cameras installed at county facilities without prior authorization or policy. The discussion focused on the necessity of ceasing current surveillance operations, the legal requirements for open records requests, data retention and storage capabilities, and the need for a formal policy governing future camera installations to protect against criminal activity and ensure the protection of privacy. The commission directed the State's Attorney to draft a policy recommendation for review by department heads.