Crashes and deaths responded to by the Montana Highway Patrol were slightly higher in 2024 than in the previous year, according to the department. The total amount of crashes responded to during the year was 159. Those crashes included 24 on the interstate, 57 on primary roads, 33 on rural roads, 26 on secondary roads and 18 on urban roads. There were 170 fatalities in 2024 including 25

Roosevelt County Commissioner Gordon Oelkers was busy testifying on bills which could impact the area during committee hearings in Helena on Feb. 10-14. “It’s good to go down and meet with our representatives,” Oelkers said. He noted that he spent time discussing issues with Rep. Valerie Moore, R-Plentywood, Rep. Frank Smith, D-Poplar, and Sen. Gregg Hunter, R-Glasgow. Oelkers testified

District Judge Benjamin Fosland has denied the request to suppress evidence regarding Maurice James Gunn. Gunn is facing the charge of driving under the influence of alcohol, fourth or subsequent offense, and speeding. His defense team argued that Gunn was stopped for a speeding violation, and there was not reasonable suspicion to change the investigation to driving under the influence.

The Wolf Point City Council held its regular meeting Feb. 18 in the council chambers. There was no public comment. Council members discussed plans to bring the Cowboy Hall of Fame to Wolf Point. A Great Northern Development Corp. update was provided about the properties on Custer Street. MDU crews are waiting on warmer weather to install gas lines. Greg Lukasik with Great West Engineering

House District 31 Rep. Frank Smith, D-Poplar, is the sponsor of a proposed bill that would authorize tribal governments to approve cannabis stores on reservations. As of last week, Smith said the bill still hasn’t been written and he’s not positive what the proposal will all include. Smith explained the issue was brought up during a tribal organization’s meeting involving state legislators.