County Begins Work On New Growth Policy
The Roosevelt County commissioners approved Interstate Engineering to start preparations of a new growth policy for the county during the commissioners’ weekly meeting on Tuesday, May 19.
John Bach of Interstate Engineering said the county’s last growth policy was conducted about five years ago. He said a difference with the next one might include adding some land uses such as the potential of wind farms and solar energy.
Bach said the main goal is to have growth in an orderly fashion.
There will be public meetings scheduled to discuss the new growth policy. The Montana Department of Commerce recommends that a county puts together a new growth policy about every five years. The project will cost the county about $30,000.
“It’s to make sure the public is protected,” Commissioner Robert Toavs said.
Also during the meeting, commissioners approved the DUI Task Force Work Plan for 2026-2027.
A.J. Allen, DUI Task Force coordinator for Roosevelt County, said the state requires a work plan every year.
“I want to thank A.J. for having an excellent DUI Task Force going,” Commissioner Gordon Oelkers said.
Commissioners approved the road department’s request to put out for bids to obtain another 20,000 tons of gravel from the Picard pit. Toavs said the goal is to have another 20,000 tons crushed because it might go fast because of the amount of oil activity in the area.
Commissioners approved $20,500 for squash piping to improve a culvert on County Road 2049.
Plans are to conduct a scrub seal improvement on the McCabe Road.
An annual pay raise for Justice of the Peace clerk Samar Pronto was approved.
Commissioners approved purchasing a computer costing $3,600 for the GIS department.
Rehired for mosquito control were Randy and Heather Pautsch.
