Marcia Kessel

The board discussed a proposal to develop a road connecting Billings County and Golden Valley County near Buffalo Gap as a potential joint venture. The session focused on the feasibility of the proposed route, the potential for shared project costs between the two counties, and the necessary administrative steps, including issuing an RFP for engineering services, addressing environmental clearance requirements, and navigating the process for obtaining easements from the Forest Service. The commission reached a consensus to proceed with preliminary planning and continued coordination.

The Commission discussed several administrative and operational items, including a memorandum of understanding for a new siren site for the county's radio system, and the state funding agreement for the Clerk of Court. Department reports were provided, covering the fire department's recent elections and equipment status, as well as the weed control board's hiring plans and contract revisions for the Roosevelt Presidential Library. Additionally, the commission addressed challenges related to potential rural health transformation grants and approved an increase to EMS mileage and BLS intermediate billing rates to better align with current market standards.

The meeting addressed several key areas including road-related issues such as the Schurke scoria lease, equipment updates, and road access concerns. Discussions were held regarding the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library (TRPL), focusing on advocacy efforts, parking issues, and the need for comprehensive planning. The commission also addressed zoning applications, budget amendments, and a maintenance agreement for Chateau Road. Additionally, the removal of the County Major Collector designation from a portion of Knutson Creek Road was discussed and voted on, and a committee was formed to coordinate on the Buffalo Gap Road project. Finally, the 2026 Final Budget was presented and approved after adjustments.

This Comprehensive Land Use Plan for Billings County serves as a roadmap to protect the county's environmental natural resources, economic stability, and unique customs and cultures for present and future generations. It establishes a legal framework for land and environmental planning, emphasizing a cooperative environmental planning and review process with state and federal agencies. Key focus areas include defining and preserving the county's custom and culture, ensuring community stability through economic activities such as oil and gas exploration, livestock grazing, and tourism, and mitigating adverse impacts from federal land management decisions. The plan outlines an implementation structure involving the County Commission and citizen committees to ensure local participation and protection of property rights and self-determination.

The meeting included discussions and actions on various departmental reports, including the Sheriff's Office considering an MOU with the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library (TRPL) for cost-sharing a special deputy, and the State's Attorney reporting on road access issues. The board addressed tax and zoning matters, approving permit applications and announcing a zoning board retirement. Maintenance requests for a chain link fence around propane tanks were approved. The Fire Department reported on hazard mitigation, while EMS discussed staffing and billing issues, and approved meeting with legal counsel and random drug testing for essential personnel. Other business included a tabled discussion on increased support for the Ports to Plains Alliance, an update on federal roadless project developments, and the adoption of a proclamation recognizing Ukraine's Independence Day. Road and infrastructure discussions covered a tourism corridor proposal and concerns about access roads near TRPL. The ND Cowboy Hall of Fame presented expansion plans and requested financial support. Financial claims and revenue vouchers were also reviewed and approved.