Culbertson Council Hears About Armory Plans
The Culbertson Town Council held its regular monthly meeting on Monay, Feb. 9, at the town hall building.
Following the approval of financials and claims and meeting minutes from January, the council heard from Roosevelt County Commissioner Gordon Oelkers about plans to develop and improve the Culbertson Readiness Center and vehicle maintenance shop on Broadway Avenue. No motions were raised.
Oelkers told the council about plans to acquire the structures and property known locally as the armory, which are currently under the control of the Montana National Guard Department of Military Affairs.
Oelkers explained that Roosevelt County has first right of refusal to purchase the property at fair market value, which has been appraised at $1,085,000. Oelkers said the county is interested in making the acquisition in collaboration with the town for continued public use of the property, including a new home for the Culbertson Volunteer Fire Department, a satellite office for the Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and a space for community events and activities, such as an air conditioned area for fair exhibits. Planning is in early stages.
Oelkers and commissioners Doug Marottek and Robert Toavs signed a letter to Gov. Greg Gianforte dated Jan. 26 requesting help in securing one-time state funding in the amount of the purchase price to facilitate the transfer of the property from the National Guard to Roosevelt County. Mayor Todd Gabriel and members of the council expressed their enthusiasm for the plans and thanked Oelkers for his persistence and support.
The council also heard an update on construction at the bathhouse project and discussed the possibility or raising water and sewer base rates to stay within funding levels recommended by the state.
During the public works report, Bob Jasper discussed replacing airport runway lights and problems with the sewer at the law enforcement shed, which have been resolved.
The next regular meeting is set for March 9.
