Bill T. Everett

The Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Open Lands Trails and Recreation Plan is a comprehensive framework designed to guide the development and management of sustainable and inclusive recreational opportunities across its open lands. The plan is built upon three core considerations: historic use, inclusivity for various user types (motorized and non-motorized), and sustainability (economic, environmental, social). It organizes recreational development into four planning zones—Stucky Ridge, A-Hill, C-Hill, and Clear Creek—each designed to offer distinct user experiences from quiet, non-motorized trails to high-density multi-use and motorized options. The plan also addresses implementation, phasing, project prioritization, and funding, aiming to establish an interconnected, user-friendly, and inclusive trail network that provides year-round opportunities for a wide variety of interests and abilities.

The Commission addressed several administrative and operational matters. Key actions included the approval of claims, the adoption of ADLC Head Start training materials and policies, and the approval of a resolution designating county holidays for the calendar year 2026. Board appointments were made for the Board of Adjustments, the County Tax Appeal Board, the Public Housing Authority Board, and the Planning Board. The Commission also discussed and approved a request for a qualifications audit of the county's communication system to address ongoing service issues. Additionally, approvals were granted for a historic preservation grant, advertising for a concessions contract at the Yeoman Softball Complex, special event permits, and a junk vehicle grant for the Motor Vehicle Graveyard.

The task force reviewed financial reports, including the current account balance, and discussed recent DUI/MIP data. Under unfinished business, members planned the distribution of incentives for sober drivers for upcoming holiday celebrations and authorized funding for compliance checks to identify local areas of concern. New business involved the proposal for an officer drug training program, with recommendations to coordinate cost-sharing efforts with neighboring county task forces. Additionally, the committee received updates on the usage of previously approved funds for a youth prevention program.

The board discussed unfinished business regarding the Phoebe Hearst Bronze statue, including plaque attachment and progress updates. Planning for a June 13, 2026 event was detailed, covering timeline, ticket pricing, honorees, silent auction items, and decorations. The board also coordinated the logistics for the upcoming speaker series events, including venue setup and advertising approvals. Further planning for an event commemorating America's 250th birthday was conducted, specifically regarding entertainment and catering. Additionally, the board approved the CLG application for 2026-2027, discussed oral history interview efforts, and considered miscellaneous items such as a potential time capsule.

The Commission discussed several key items, including a report on timber sales and Forest Service projects affecting regional counties. Unfinished business involved the approval of three resolutions to place ballot questions regarding tax levies for the Smelter City Senior Citizens' Center and the local Head Start program on the primary election ballot. Additionally, the Commission approved a special event request for the Anaconda High School tennis program. New discussions centered on an urgent grant application to address communication and emergency response issues, for which community support letters were requested.