Travis Palm

The special meeting agenda included one primary item: the purchase of a road maintainer. Discussions focused on the acquisition of the fourth road maintainer for approximately $130,000, intended primarily as a spare unit, with the possibility of use for snow plowing and road graveling when necessary. The Commission also addressed the funding mechanism, debating the reallocation of budget funds from the gravel fund to a major purchase fund, and further to the prairie dog funds. Updates to the maintainer's computer software were also discussed. The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the purchase and the associated budget amendment, which passed despite one dissenting vote.

The meeting included the approval of the agenda and the minutes from the August 4th meeting, noting a correction to a vote concerning a sheriff's deputy. Key discussions revolved around voucher approvals, specifically addressing funding sources for Balco Uniform Code expenses (due to new ballistic plates) and road work requiring funds transfer from the construction reserve. Further discussion covered concerns regarding contractor performance on a fog seal operation, including delays attributed to subcontractor issues, equipment breakdown, and weather conditions, leading to a motion to write a letter to address cost overruns with the state. Updates were provided on the Decker Bridge RFP for preliminary engineering funded by federal highway funds, and a scoping meeting was scheduled for FEMA disaster assistance applicants. Additionally, updates were given on graveling projects, including replacing an old bridge box cover with a steel culvert, and updates on the Prairie Dog allocation and remaining funds.

The commission meeting included discussion and action regarding several items. Key topics involved reallocating funds for the purchase of a lathe, specifically moving gravel funds to the ARPA account to cover the cost instead of using future gravel funds. Updates were provided on a grant application for the Red Willow road, which includes a letter of support from the Red Willow Bible Camp Association, although the timeline for knowing the outcome is uncertain. The Sheriff's department requested approval to purchase a new pickup truck, detailing the funding source split between current and future fiscal years, and also discussed court security measures, noting that courts are now phone-free and the potential use of Yonder security bags. The Road Superintendent reported on the recent application for the Red Willow road grant and explained the ongoing road shifting issues due to soil expansion around culverts.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance. Key agenda items included the approval of the agenda, with an addition concerning a travel request for the clerk of court. Discussions involved the review and approval of previous meeting minutes from October 20th and 27th, and review of current bills, noting an issue with a previously sent check address that required correction. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a presentation by the Garrison Diversion District engineer regarding ongoing and upcoming construction contracts, which cover approximately 25 miles of pipe installation in Foster County. The timeline suggests bids will open next week, with potential construction starting as early as winter. Discussions also centered on utility permit crossings with county roads and the potential use of Sutton Highway as a haul road, including stipulations for repair via mill and overlay if damage occurs. There was also discussion regarding the status of easement settlements with landowners.

The primary purpose of this special meeting was to discuss the current litigation situation and decide on pursuing mitigation settlement with the building authority. The Commissioners discussed retaining Doug Giggler from the Niles Law Firm to assist with the mediation process, noting his experience and prior working relationship with Dan Goad. Compensation details, including an hourly rate of $175, were reviewed. The attendees also discussed the cost allocation for mediation fees, with the County responsible for 25%. A motion was made and approved to employ Mr. Giggler to represent the county through the mediation phase.