Daniels Commissioners Hear Rural Fire Wish List
The Daniels County commissioners met Nov. 2 and 4 in Scobey from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with lunch breaks. Changes to public meeting notification policy drafted by county attorney Logan Olson were reviewed. The changes include new practices for posting meeting agendas, and managing agenda additions.
An amended agreement with Daniels Memorial Hospital was approved for an additional day of senior citizen meals, as was a motion approving the termination of Rose and Marie’s contracted day.
Rural Fire Department Chief Neil Holum was on hand to discuss the status of department reserve cash and other matters. He shared ideas for a wish list of department goals for the next 3-5 years and beyond. Ideas included expanding operations toward Plentywood with an eye toward better collaboration between area departments.
A new zoning plan was discussed. The current plan was described as inadequately drafted and “not sufficient to protect the county” by commissioner Tammi Fladager.
Details about the resolution for retention of meeting recordings were discussed, with administrative changes suggested by attorney Olson. No action was taken.
Shelly Weight described a grant opportunity from Preserve Montana to help pay up to $15,000 for repairs to the balcony on the courthouse. She said photos of the damage to the balcony would be needed. She told commissioners that there was a 25 percent match, amounting to as much as $4,000 to the county, some of which could be paid in volunteer hours. The commissioners each said they were in favor of the plan.
An MSU Extension offi ce-services agreement was approved with Inga Hawbaker.
Lee Hinkley with the ambulance service spoke to the commissioners. He said state EMS licensing, inspection and oversight staff visited on Oct. 21 and did their inspections. No problems were reported. He added that his radios have been in and out. “One minute the things work, one minute they don’t,” Hinkley said.
The next regular meeting is set for Monday, Nov. 16, at 9 a.m. in Scobey.
