City of Deer Lodge

The Public Works meeting addressed several key items, commencing with the approval of the previous month's regular meeting minutes. New business focused on an unexpected expense for concrete drain pads at Milwaukee and Clark, and Second Missouri, which totaled $110,000 due to unforeseen existing concrete and asphalt layers requiring extensive reconstruction of the intersection. Funding for this expenditure was drawn from the gas tax allocation. Another significant topic was the proposal to upgrade the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) computer system for the water system from Windows 10 to Windows 11 at a cost of $23,024, noting that the associated security firewall device is outdated but its replacement is not included in the current proposal. Furthermore, the committee discussed the ongoing issue with the Westside Ditch shares and fees, noting significant legal expenses from a lawsuit involving Trout Unlimited and the Westside Ditch Company, resulting in high assessment fees for shareholders, including the city. The discussion also covered the appointment of a city representative for informational purposes regarding the Westside Ditch. Finally, the report highlighted ongoing winter road maintenance, including patching streets and grading alleys in December, and mentioned planned future advertisement for additional personnel.

The Finance Committee meeting commenced with the approval of minutes from a prior special meeting without changes. Key discussions included the water speed system computer replacement, which required a motion to remove it from the table for discussion. A breakdown of costs related to programming, alarming, reporting, and trending for the water system was presented. The committee also addressed claims related to an alleged water main leak near a property, noting the claim's history and stating the matter was unacceptable for the lawsuit insurance. Discussion also touched upon reviewing and signing claims, including items related to PLC for wastewater, and addressing discrepancies in billing cycles from the county and an agreement with the sheriff's office regarding 911 services payments. The committee also noted the date for the next regular meeting.

The council meeting included a public comment period, which was not utilized as no members of the public were present. The primary agenda item involved a presentation on the draft Comprehensive Capital Improvement Plan (CCIP) by Robbie Cover from Staley Engineering. The discussion covered the purpose and benefits of a CIP, including financial planning, grant applications, and responsiveness to citizen needs. The process for developing the CCIP, including needs assessment, prioritization criteria (such as public health and safety, economic development, and funding availability), and project rankings, was reviewed. A follow-up plan was established to post the draft CCIP online for public comment until February 26, with a final adoption targeted for May. Subsequently, the council held a public hearing regarding a conditional use permit application for WM Auto Repair and Detail at 800 Montana Avenue, which is classified as a major home occupation in the R1 zoning district. The Land Use Board had recommended modifications to the proposed conditions related to vehicle parking on the street, due to ongoing complaints about vehicles being parked on the street for extended periods. The council voted to approve the plan to proceed with publicizing the CCIP draft and accept written comments until the specified date.

The Finance Committee meeting commenced with the approval of minutes from a previous special finance meeting held on November 3rd. A key motion was passed to compensate the city clerk with a $5 per hour increase for performing additional treasurer position duties, effective until a new treasurer is hired. The committee then discussed a revised proposal for a waterwork project, comparing three options with costs ranging from $7,560 to $11,025, which differed based on the inclusion of rate design for water, sewer, and solid waste services, as well as street design. The committee ultimately recommended proceeding with the most comprehensive option for $11,025, which included rate design for three service areas plus street design. Additionally, the committee decided against renewing a separate annual subscription contract with 120 Water for lead service line inventory, citing perceived minimal benefit compared to the associated cost and the existence of the new financial modeling tool.

The council discussed a CAO position, highlighting the selection of a candidate who interned with the city previously. The council also reviewed a proposal from Waterworth for continuous utility rate management, which aims to assist the city with the financial status of its enterprise funds and inform decisions on cost increases. The discussion included the benefits of the platform, such as avoiding the need for a rate consultant and enabling better long-term financial modeling.