Billie Chase

The Board addressed several key agenda items, including promotions within the detention facility and recognition of staff for years of service. Bid proceedings were initiated for the MetraPark Arena East Rock Stabilization project. Public hearings were held regarding resolutions for tax abatements on class eight properties for CHS, Phillips 66, and Par Montana. Additionally, the Board approved the relocation of a polling place in Laurel, reviewed and executed various subdivision agreements, updated lists of board openings, and approved the reissuance of duplicate warrants for lost checks.

The board meeting included the nomination of officers and a comprehensive review of financial procedures, including revenue forecasting challenges and the role of contingency funds. Discussions covered the dynamics of the concert and promotions business, the financial importance of the Montana Fair as a primary revenue generator, and the distinctions between tour and promoter financial settlements. The board also addressed focus areas for strengthening relationships and communication with stakeholders, including strategies to increase revenue through the rental of available Skyboxes.

The board discussed several operational and project-related items. Topics included the status of 310 permit applications and potential changes to the 310 Model Rules. The board scheduled an upcoming local work group meeting and reviewed a media interview regarding environmental conditions. A request from the Realtors Association for an educational presentation was approved. Financial discussions included a revision of the Supervisor Per Diem policy for reservoir-related work. Committee reports covered pollinator-related activities, including grant applications, liability insurance requirements for park projects, and pollinator habitat planting plans. Agency partners provided updates on soil health programs, upcoming agricultural funding cycles, horticulture resources, and weed management strategies.

The commissioners discussed several items, including the relocation of a polling place in Laurel to the Laurel Administration Building to improve campus security and accessibility. The board also reviewed an interlocal agreement with Golden Valley County for adult detention services, involving daily inmate fees and medical expense responsibilities. Additionally, the renewal of a subscription for the Rapid SOS paging service used by the Sheriff's Office was addressed. Finally, the board discussed the current jail-based pilot program, which is grant-funded through June 2026, to determine future provider options and program continuation.

Key discussions for this meeting include an update on the TA Grant, the final walkthrough and completion status of the Old Hardin Road sidewalk project, and a report from the Billings MET Transit Governance and Study Committee. The board also reviewed the Billings Bypass/TEDD update and the January trail count report. Old business items involved the existing sidewalk maintenance report, the MDT Dick Johnson Bridge, and the status of the MDT Grant Application support letter for Exposition Drive, for which affirmative support was received and the final letter sent.