Dan Thomas

The Crook County Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (CSAP) is a roadmap developed to achieve a long-term goal of zero roadway fatalities and serious injuries for all transportation users by 2050. Informed by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Safe Systems Approach, the plan outlines strategies and identifies high-priority safety locations based on comprehensive safety analysis of crash history (2017-2023) and systemic risk factors. The CSAP's framework is built upon leadership commitment, robust planning structures, stakeholder engagement, policy and process changes, strategic project selections, and a commitment to progress monitoring and transparency.

The board conducted budget work sessions for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, reviewing requests with various county department heads, including planning, sheriff, road and bridge, facilities, district court, attorney, treasurer, assessor, public health, extension office, fair board, and library. Actions taken included the transfer of unanticipated grant funds for CMAQ, SHSP, and state opioid grants, the appointment of an interim county fire warden, and approval of a cooperative law enforcement agreement. Furthermore, the board authorized mechanical work for county fire units and held an executive session.

The Board of County Commissioners addressed several administrative and operational matters. Key topics included approval of a fiscal year budget amendment for a federal grant, reaffirmation of an emergency tax resolution, and approval of road-related easements and cattle guard permits. The board appointed a county surveyor and engineer, authorized temporary weight limits on county roads, and processed tax roll corrections. Reports were presented by various county departments, including the Assessor, Attorney, Clerk, District Court Clerk, Sheriff, and Treasurer, covering activities such as legal case loads, permitting processes, passport applications, and financial reports. Additionally, the board approved a classification review, awarded a cattle guard contract, and finalized a minor subdivision plat. A Settlement Agreement and Notice of Lien were discussed and approved regarding a county matter, and the board heard updates from the Library Foundation and other regional organizations.

The board discussed and took action on several items including the allocation of Forest Reserve Funds, support for a part-time magistrate, and equipment replacement for the Planning Department. They approved various legal documents, including an Annual Operating Plan Cost Share Agreement, a proclamation for Volunteer Recognition Week, a proclamation for National Crime Victims' Rights Week, and resolutions regarding salary settings for elected officials and a target for zero transportation-related deaths by 2050. The board reviewed and approved monthly claims and payroll. Department heads provided updates on their operations. Additionally, the board approved licenses for the use of county property and took no action on the Crook County Recreation District formation challenge, while also signing an MOU regarding the Bridger Pipeline Expansion Project.

The board received updates from various departments, including road and bridge projects and IT operations. They approved a fiscal year budget amendment and a joint resolution regarding a specific purpose sales and use tax proposition for the upcoming primary election. Additionally, the board discussed the Fairgrounds Operations Plan, approved a facility use agreement with the American Red Cross, and reviewed a draft amendment to the minor subdivision regulations. Appointments were made to the Predator Management District, and the board approved a new health insurance proposal for employees while continuing to work on the upcoming fiscal year budget.