Sanders County public meetings in 2025

Board of Commissioners

The Sanders County Board of Commissioners will meet to award contracts for Riverbank Stabilization and Courthouse HVAC, open bids for legal advertising and printing, and adopt resolutions for the 2026 meeting schedule, holidays, and travel rates.

• Award of Riverbank Stabilization RFP
• Award of Courthouse HVAC RFP
• Bid opening for Legal Advertising
• Bid opening for County Printing
• Adoption of 2026 resolutions

The board appointed members to eight county boards, accepted a legal advertising bid from The Sanders County Ledger, and accepted the lowest printing bid from The Printery. It approved five resolutions, including naming Tony Cox the new presiding officer and setting 2026 holidays. The board accepted an HVAC replacement proposal from Jackola Engineering and ordered further review and interviews for riverbank‑stabilization proposals.

• Appointed board members for Paradise Cemetery, Paradise Improvement, Plains Cemetery, Bookmobile Advisory, Fair Commission, Weed District, Airport Advisory, and Whitepine Cemetery (all aye)
• Accepted legal advertising contract bid from The Sanders County Ledger (all aye)
• Accepted lowest county printing bid from The Printery (all aye)
• Approved Resolution 2026-01 establishing 2026 meeting schedule (all aye)
• Approved Resolution 2026-03 naming Tony Cox as new presiding officer (all aye)
• Approved Resolution 2026-04 setting official 2026 holidays (all aye)
• Accepted HVAC replacement proposal from Jackola Engineering (all aye)
• Ordered further review and interviews with WWC, Morrison & Maierle, and SWCA on riverbank stabilization RFP (all aye)

Board of Commissioners

The Board will consider appointments for the Clerk of District Court and the Elections Administrator. A journal voucher and budget review will be presented by Alisa Garcia. Administrative items include a contract amendment with Nexus CPA Group, a bridge design contract with Morrison and Maierle, and an emergency declaration resolution.

• Clerk of District Court appointment
• Elections Administrator appointment (discussion/decision)
• Journal voucher and budget review with Alisa Garcia
• Contract amendment – Nexus CPA Group
• Noxon Bridge design contract with Morrison and Maierle

The commissioners appointed Lindsey Miller as Clerk of District Court. They approved a resolution to separate the Elections Administrator from the Clerk and Recorder, creating a distinct position. They also approved an amendment to the contract with Nexus CPA Group. All motions passed with all members voting aye.

• Appointed Lindsey Miller as Clerk of District Court (all voted aye)
• Separated Elections Administrator from Clerk and Recorder via Resolution 2025-29 (all voted aye)
• Approved contract amendment with Nexus CPA Group (all voted aye)

Board of Commissioners

The Sanders County Board of Commissioners will review land service improvement projects and hear updates from the Human Resources department. A presentation from the Community Action Partnership of Northwest Montana is scheduled. Several administrative updates are cancelled.

• Acceptance of Completion of Improvements for SIA 2022-04
• Community Action Partnership of Northwest Montana presentation
• Human Resources update with Rich Wallace
• County Journal Voucher and Budget Review (Cancelled)
• County Attorney update (Cancelled)

The commissioners unanimously approved the meeting minutes for Dec. 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, and 11, 2025. They also unanimously accepted the completion of the subdivision improvement agreement for Clark Fork Meadows, originally dated April 2022.

• Approved meeting minutes for 12/02/25‑12/11/25 (unanimous)
• Accepted completion of Clark Fork Meadows subdivision improvement agreement (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

On December 8, 2025, the Sanders County Board of Commissioners will discuss several items including a proposal to de‑consolidate the Clerk & Recorder, Election Administrator, Superintendent of Schools, and Treasurer offices. The board will also hold a quarterly update from department heads and conduct interviews with the Clerk of the District Court. An emergency meeting is scheduled for December 11, 2025 to consider Resolution 2025‑28, an emergency declaration related to flooding. Additional items include a meeting with Russel Cleveland.

• Intent to consider de‑consolidation of the Clerk & Recorder, Election Administrator, Superintendent of Schools, and Treasurer
• Clerk of District Court interviews (multiple recordings)
• Quarterly Department Head update
• Emergency Resolution 2025‑28: Emergency Declaration for flooding
• Meeting with Russel Cleveland

On Dec. 8, the board voted to revoke Resolution 2017-14 and consolidate the Treasurer and Superintendent of Schools, and the Clerk/Recorder, Assessor/Surveyor, and Elections Administrator, effective Jan. 15, 2026. All commissioners voted aye, and the motion carried. On Dec. 11, the board adopted Resolution 2025-28, declaring a county emergency because of potential landslides and flooding. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

• Approved consolidation of Treasurer & Superintendent of Schools and of Clerk/Recorder, Assessor/Surveyor, Elections Administrator (effective Jan 15 2026) – all aye
• Adopted Resolution 2025-28 emergency declaration for landslide and flood risk – all aye

Sanders County Park Board

The Sanders County Park Board will vote on the November 2025 meeting minutes and review a financial item of $83,132.86. Ongoing business includes spreadsheet updates, a discussion with the County Attorney about Henry Creek, by‑law changes, and a DNRC matter concerning Cherry Creek. New business covers a training discussion on board purpose and direction and planning for 2026.

• Vote on November 2025 minutes
• Financial item of $83,132.86
• By‑law changes/approvals
• Discussion with County Attorney on Henry Creek
• Planning for 2026

Board of Commissioners

The Board will hold a public hearing on Dec 2 and a discussion on Dec 3 about a possible de-consolidation of the Clerk & Recorder, Election Administrator, Superintendent of Schools, and Treasurer offices. Other agenda items include a land services update with a subdivision regulations discussion, an environmental health and food safety licensing contract, a forest management agreement with Arno Forestry, and the continued bid opening for the Graves Creek Drainage Improvement. Additional items cover an airport lease, invasive milfoil management for 2026, and a funds request for Trout Creek School.

• Public hearing on de-consolidation of Clerk & Recorder, Election Administrator, Superintendent of Schools, and Treasurer
• Land Services update and subdivision regulations discussion
• Environmental Health and Food Safety Licensing Contract
• Forest Management Agreement with Arno Forestry
• Graves Creek Drainage Improvement bid opening – continued

On Dec. 4 the commissioners approved the county claims for $506,922.33, awarded the Graves Creek Drainage bid to Pardee Excavating for $246,810.68, signed the Plains Airport lease, and approved the invasive milfoil management authorization. They also approved the environmental health licensing contract, the forest management agreement with Arno Forestry (pending legal review), and denied a $1,100 funding request from Trout Creek School. On Dec. 3 the board deferred the CREST de‑consolidation discussion until Dec. 8.

• Approved county claims for November 2025 ($506,922.33) (all aye)
• Awarded Graves Creek Drainage bid to Pardee Excavating for $246,810.68 (all aye)
• Approved Plains Airport lease with Marvin Rehbein (all aye)
• Approved Invasive Milfoil Management Authorization (all aye)
• Approved Environmental Health and Food Safety Licensing Contract (all aye)
• Approved Forest Management Agreement with Arno Forestry pending legal review (all aye)
• Denied Trout Creek School $1,100 funding request (all aye)
• Deferred CREST de‑consolidation discussion until Dec. 8, 2025 (all aye)

Board of Commissioners

The Sanders County Board of Commissioners will review a journal voucher and budget items, receive a land services update, consider an amended resolution for the FY 2025 budget, and conduct a bid opening for the Graves Creek drainage improvement.

• Journal Voucher and Budget Review with Alisa Garcia at 10:00 a.m.
• Land Services update with Chris McComas at 11:00 a.m.
• 2025‑26 Amended Resolution for Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Amendments at 1:30 p.m.
• Graves Creek Drainage Improvement bid opening at 2:00 p.m.

The commissioners unanimously approved the 2025‑26 Amended Resolution for the Fiscal Year 2025 budget, which adds a transfer of PILT funds. They also voted to take the Graves Creek bid opening under advisement, noting the bids received and that a late bid was excluded. No other actions were taken.

• Approved 2025‑26 Amended Resolution for FY2025 budget (all aye)
• Took Graves Creek bid opening under advisement (all aye)

Board of Commissioners

The Commissioners will hear updates from the Sanitarian and Environmental Health staff, review the 2025 municipal election canvass, get a Land Services briefing, receive a County Attorney report, and hear a Human Resources update. Two items – a Community Action Partnership presentation and a Graves Creek Drainage Improvement bid opening – are noted as cancelled. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Sanitarian and Environmental Health update with Tina Scott (Tue 10:00 a.m.)
• 2025 Municipal Election canvass (Tue 10:30 a.m.)
• Land Services update with Chris McComas (Wed 11:00 a.m.)
• County Attorney update with Jania Hatfield (Thu 11:00 a.m.)
• Human Resources update with Rich Wallace (Thu 2:00 p.m.)

The commissioners approved the 2025 municipal election canvass with all votes in favor. They also approved the burn piles at county refuse sites for burning. The board accepted the minutes for five prior meetings. The agenda item for the Community Action Partnership of Northwest Montana was cancelled.

• Accepted 2025 municipal election canvass results (all aye)
• Approved burn piles at county refuse sites for burning
• Approved meeting minutes for 11/04/25, 11/05/25, 11/06/25, 11/12/25 & 11/13/25 (all aye)
• Cancelled Community Action Partnership of Northwest Montana agenda item

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners will discuss a resolution (2025‑27) to consider de‑consolidating the Clerk & Recorder, Elections Administrator, Superintendent of Schools, and Treasurer offices. They will review a one‑year extension request for conditional preliminary approval of the K‑Ranch Minor Subdivision. Administrative items include a Montana Department of Transportation funding agreement and an engagement agreement with Crowley Fleck PLLP. A contract to extend Suzy Boylan as county public administrator will also be considered.

• One‑Year Extension Request of Conditional Preliminary Approval for K‑Ranch Minor Subdivision
• Montana Department of Transportation Funding Agreement
• Engagement Agreement with Crowley Fleck PLLP
• Resolution 2025‑27: Intent to consider de‑consolidation of Clerk & Recorder, Elections Administrator, Superintendent of Schools, and Treasurer (CREST)
• Contract to extend Suzy Boylan as County Public Administrator

The Sanders County Board accepted and signed a $950,000 Montana Department of Transportation funding agreement for the Noxon Bridge. It also granted a one‑year extension for the K Ranch Minor Subdivision and approved engagement agreements with Crowley Fleck PLLP and Nexus CPA Group. A resolution to consider de‑consolidating the Clerk & Recorder, Elections Administrator, Superintendent of Schools, and Treasurer offices was adopted, and a contract extending Suzy Boylan as county public administrator was approved.

• Approved $950,000 MT DOT funding agreement for Noxon Bridge (all aye)
• Approved one‑year extension for K Ranch Minor Subdivision (all aye)
• Approved and signed engagement agreement with Crowley Fleck PLLP for legal services (all aye)
• Approved and signed engagement agreement with Nexus CPA Group for benefits liability reporting (all aye)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-27 to consider de‑consolidation of Clerk & Recorder, Elections Administrator, Superintendent of Schools, and Treasurer (all aye)
• Approved contract extending Suzy Boylan as county public administrator (all aye)

Sanders County Park Board

The Sanders County Park Board will vote on the October 2025 meeting minutes and review a financial report of $83,132.86. It will discuss proposed revisions to bylaws regarding winter versus summer meeting times, board position duties, and meeting posting locations. The board will also receive input on the Sanders County Community Wildfire Protection Plan after a public meeting held on November 5.

• Vote on October 2025 minutes
• Financial report: $83,132.86
• By‑law revision: winter vs. summer meeting times
• By‑law revision: board position duties
• Community Wildfire Protection Plan public input (Nov 5 meeting)

Aquatic Invasive Plants Task Force Board

The Sanders County Aquatic Invasive Plants Task Force will vote on the July 2 meeting minutes. Members will discuss inspection station findings, reservoir‑wide monitoring status, treatment updates, and 2026 grant applications. The board will also consider holding a public outreach meeting.

• Consider July 2 meeting minutes (action item requiring vote)
• Inspection station report
• Reservoir‑wide monitoring report status
• 2026 grant applications
• Consider a public meeting/outreach

Board of Commissioners

The Sanders County Board of Commissioners will discuss several items, including a resolution to amend the FY2025 budget and transfer funds for FY2026. They will also review a Public Health Emergency Preparedness task order, a final plat application for the Dry Fork Properties major subdivision, and a human resources update. Administrative matters such as board appointments, meeting minutes, and audit of county claims are on the agenda, while the Sanitarian update and County Attorney update are cancelled.

• Resolution 2025-26 for FY2025 budget amendment and FY2026 budget transfers
• Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP) Task Order discussion
• Final Plat Application – Dry Fork Properties Major Subdivision
• Human Resources update with Rich Wallace
• Board appointments, meeting minutes, and audit of county claims

The Sanders County Board approved the Public Health Emergency Preparedness task order, granted final plat approval for the Dry Fork Properties Major Subdivision, and adopted the FY2025 budget amendment and FY2026 budget transfers. All motions carried with unanimous aye votes. The board also filled several local board vacancies.

• Approved $325,194.45 county claims for October 2025 (all aye)
• Approved Public Health Emergency Preparedness task order (all aye)
• Granted final plat approval for Dry Fork Properties Major Subdivision (all aye)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-26 for FY2025 budget amendments (all aye)
• Approved FY2026 budget transfers (all aye)
• Appointed Bob Rice to Thompson Falls Airport Advisory Board (all aye)
• Appointed Jamey Williams to Thompson Falls Airport Advisory Board (all aye)
• Appointed John Haakenson, Ron Blacic to County Park Board and Michelle McGuigan to Fair Board (all aye)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will receive a Land Services update and open bids for a Whisper Quiet Chipper. The Fish and Wildlife update scheduled for October 29 is cancelled.

• Final Plat Application for Rocky Bottom Minor Subdivision
• Final Plat Application for McKay Minor Subdivision
• Whisper Quiet Chipper Bid Opening

The commissioners granted final plat approval for the Rocky Bottom Minor Subdivision after confirming all conditions were met. They also granted final plat approval for the McKay Minor Subdivision under the same circumstances. The board accepted the $2,050.00 bid from Seth Wilson for the Whisper Quiet Chipper, with all commissioners voting aye.

• Approved final plat for Rocky Bottom Minor Subdivision (unanimous aye)
• Approved final plat for McKay Minor Subdivision (unanimous aye)
• Accepted Seth Wilson bid of $2,050.00 for Whisper Quiet Chipper (unanimous aye)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet from October 21 to October 24, 2025. The body is discussing a WIC contract, county surplus property, and emergency criminal case coverage for Plains Police. They are also considering a resolution to amend building lease or rent regulations.

• Resolution 2025-25 to Amend the Sanders County Building for Lease or Rent Regulations
• Emergency coverage of criminal cases for Plains Police discussion/decision
• Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Contract
• Hixenbaugh Septic system discussion/decision
• County Surplus Property

The commissioners approved the county attorney’s contract to provide legal services for the Town of Plains at $2,000 per month. They also approved the WIC program contract, surplus of county equipment, and an amendment to the Building for Lease or Rent Regulations. All motions were carried with unanimous aye votes.

• Approved WIC program contract (all aye)
• Approved surplus of county property – whisper‑quiet chipper and skid steer (all aye)
• Adopted resolution 2025‑25 to amend Building for Lease or Rent Regulations (all aye)
• Approved county attorney contract with Town of Plains for $2,000 monthly services (all aye)

Refuse District

The Sanders County Refuse District Board will approve the July 15, 2025 meeting minutes. It will discuss a refuse appeal involving land without habitable buildings. The board will review the September 2025 financial reports and receive a recycling report from Refuse Supervisor Jason Peterson. The next meeting is scheduled for January 21, 2026.

• Approve July 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Consider Refuse Appeal – Land without Habitable Buildings
• Review September 2025 financial reports for the Refuse District
• Receive recycling report presented by Refuse Supervisor Jason Peterson
• Schedule next board meeting for January 21, 2026

The board voted to refund the 2024 charges and remove the 2025 charges for Barbra Niemeyer Fink, with all members voting aye. The board also approved the minutes from the July 15, 2025 meeting, again with all members voting aye. No other motions were decided during the session.

• Approved refund of 2024 charges and removal of 2025 charges for Barbra Niemeyer Fink (all voted aye)
• Approved July 15, 2025 meeting minutes (all voted aye)

Weed Board

The Sanders County Weed Board will consider approving the “I Control My Own” permits and will vote to approve submitted time sheets and claims. It will also review reports on Rush Skeletonweed, Eurasian Watermilfoil (from the September 24 meeting), and subdivision matters. Old business items include education/public outreach and the FS Thorn Creek fire agreement accomplishments.

• Approve “I Control My Own” permits
• Approve time sheets and claims
• Review Rush Skeletonweed report
• Review Eurasian Watermilfoil report (Sept 24 meeting)
• Discuss education/public outreach and FS Thorn Creek fire agreement accomplishments

Board of Commissioners

The Sanders County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to consider amending the Building for Lease or Rent Regulations and review administrative agreements for the Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program and Maternal Child Health Block Grant.

• Public Hearing: Building for Lease or Rent Regulations Amendments
• Review: Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program Agreement
• Review: Maternal Child Health Block Grant
• Review: County Surplus Property
• Review: County Journal Voucher and Budget

The commissioners approved the signing of the Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program subcontractor agreement and the Maternal Child Health Block Grant Agreement, each with unanimous support. They also voted to continue discussion on the county surplus property next week. Additionally, the board directed the land planner to amend the Building for Lease or Rent Regulations to require landowner contact before any inspections.

• Approved signing of Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program subcontractor agreement (unanimous)
• Approved signing of Maternal Child Health Block Grant Agreement (unanimous)
• Motion to continue discussion on county surplus property next week (unanimous)
• Directed land planner to revise lease regulations to require contact prior to inspections (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Sanders County Board of Health will approve the minutes from its July 8, 2025 meeting. It will hear two presentations: one on the Montana Clean Indoor Air Act by Karren McKinzie and another on the Vial of Life program by Kjirsten Mercer and Catherine DeWitt. The meeting will also include a public comment period.

• Approval of July 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Presentation on the Montana Clean Indoor Air Act – Karren McKinzie
• Presentation on Vial of Life – Kjirsten Mercer and Catherine DeWitt
• Public comment period

The Board of Health approved the minutes from the July 8, 2025 meeting, with all members voting aye. No other actions were taken; the board only discussed the Vial of Life program and noted a report that the Riverfront Motel pool and spa are approved and open.

• Accepted July 8, 2025 meeting minutes (all voted aye, motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners will review updates on health, the U.S. Forest Service, land services, and human resources, and address several administrative matters. The key agenda item is a proposed extension and amendment of the Subdivision Improvement Agreement for River West Estates 3, including Resolution 2025-25 to draw on a letter of credit. Other items include a cancelled County Journal review, a funds request from Trout Creek Rural Fire District, and a discussion of the Panorama Road railroad crossing.

• Proposed Subdivision Improvement Agreement Extension/Amendment – River West Estates 3 (Resolution 2025-25)
• Trout Creek Rural Fire District Funds Request
• Panorama Rd Railroad Crossing discussion
• Opioid Committee Restructuring (administrative)
• Taxpayer refund request (administrative)

The commissioners approved meeting minutes for late September and early October, restructured the opioid committee, refunded $152.59 to Fiona and Dennis Caldwell, and granted a second extension for the River West Estates 3 subdivision improvement agreement. They also approved a $35,000 fund request for the Trout Creek Rural Fire District and voted against signing a release for the Panorama Road railroad crossing.

• Approved meeting minutes for 09/30/25, 10/01/25, 10/02/25 (all aye)
• Approved opioid committee restructuring and appointments (all aye)
• Refunded $152.59 county share of overpaid property taxes to Caldwell taxpayers (all aye)
• Granted second extension for River West Estates 3 subdivision improvement agreement (Cox aye, Holland aye, Rowan nay)
• Approved $35,000 fund request for Trout Creek Rural Fire District (all aye)
• Voted against signing release agreement for Panorama Road railroad crossing (all aye)
• Agreed to proceed with Northern Lights communication tower request (no vote recorded)
• Cancelled County Journal Voucher and Budget Review (no decision made)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet from September 30 to October 2, 2025. The body will discuss tax mill levies, subdivision defaults, and land service applications.

• Resolution 2025-25 to fix Sanders County Tax Mill Levies for Fiscal Year 2025-2026
• Resolution 2025-23 declaring default and authorizing draw on Letter of Credit for Subdivision Improvements Agreement 2022-01
• Resolution 2025-24 regarding cancellation of warrant in the Clerk and Recorder's Office
• Goertzen Family Conveyance Exemption Application for Amended Plat of Lot 3 of Rock Hill No. 2

The commissioners approved Resolution 2025‑25 fixing the county tax mill levies for the 2025‑2026 fiscal year. They also approved September county claims of $1,230,285.29, cancelled existing warrants, approved a family land conveyance, and tabled a subdivision default resolution. All motions passed with unanimous aye votes.

• Approved Resolution 2025‑25 fixing tax mill levies for FY 2025‑2026 (all aye)
• Approved county claims for September 2025 totaling $1,230,285.29 (all aye)
• Approved and signed Resolution 2025‑24 cancelling warrants in the Clerk and Recorder's Office (all aye)
• Approved family conveyance for amended plat of lot 3, Rock Hill No. 2 (all aye)
• Tabled Resolution 2025‑23 on subdivision default and set agenda item to consider developer proposal (all aye)
• Approved meeting minutes for 09/16/25, 09/17/25, and 09/18/25 (all aye)

Aquatic Invasive Plants Task Force Board

The Sanders County Aquatic Invasive Plants Task Force will review treatment results, monitor reports, and discuss budget allocations for 2026 treatments. The meeting will include a review of the July 2 minutes and a report on a recent Montana Invasive Species Council meeting.

• Review of July 2 meeting minutes
• Review of treatment results and recommendations
• Budget review and consideration of funds for 2026 treatments
• Report on MISC meeting in Trout Creek
• Consideration of a public meeting or outreach

Board of Commissioners

The agenda for the week of September 22, 2025, through September 26, 2025, lists no scheduled meetings for Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.

Weed Board

The Weed Board will discuss updates on Rush Skeletonweed and Eurasian Watermilfoil. The body will also review "I Control My Own" permit renewals and address weed complaints for Garrison and Warnken.

• Rush Skeletonweed crew work update
• Eurasian Watermilfoil September report
• FS Thorn Crk Fire Agreement
• Approval of "I Control My Own" permits
• Compliance updates for Garrison and Warnken complaints

Board of Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet from September 16 to September 19, 2025. The sessions include legislative and land services updates and administrative approvals for budgets and agreements. A decision is scheduled regarding DEQ permit compliance for the Scott Gravel Pit.

• Decision regarding Scott Gravel Pit DEQ Permit Compliance
• Approval of School and Special District Budgets
• FY 2026 Extension Services Agreement between Montana State University Extension and Sanders County
• Road Project Agreement between Sanders County and USDA
• Legislative update with Steve Howke

The commissioners lifted the temporary cease‑and‑desist on the Scott gravel pit and directed contact with DEQ and MSHA to complete an inspection by October 3, 2025. They approved the school and special district budgets. They approved the FY 2026 extension services agreement with Montana State University. They approved the road project agreement with the USDA.

• Lifted cease‑and‑desist on Scott Pit; motion carried (all aye)
• Ordered DEQ and MSHA inspection of Scott Pit by Oct 3 2025; motion carried (all aye)
• Approved school and special district budgets; motion carried (all aye)
• Approved FY 2026 extension services agreement with MSU Extension; motion carried (all aye)
• Approved road project agreement with USDA; motion carried (all aye)
• Approved meeting minutes for 09/02/25‑09/11/25; motion carried (all aye)

Local Emergency Planning Committee

The Local Emergency Planning Committee will approve the July 10, 2025 meeting minutes and discuss several old‑business items, including the community wildfire protection plan, the Emergency Management Performance Grant, the Emergency Operations Plan review, the regional hazard mitigation plan, and communications. New business includes a review of the Avista Hazard plan. The meeting will conclude with scheduling the next session for November 13, 2025.

• Community wildfire protection plan
• Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG)
• Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) review
• Regional hazard mitigation plan
• Avista Hazard plan

Board of Commissioners

The Board approved two propane contracts for Districts one and two with Energy Partners and a third contract for District three also with Energy Partners, while rejecting a proposal for Cabinet Mountain Propane. It adopted Resolution 2025‑22 to provide prosecutorial assistance in a district court case. The Board also approved a cease‑and‑desist letter to Bache and Sons to stop operations at Scott Pit until safety issues are fixed.

• Approved District one propane contract to Energy Partners (all aye)
• Approved District two propane contract to Energy Partners (all aye)
• Rejected District three propane contract to Cabinet Mountain Propane (no second)
• Approved District three propane contract to Energy Partners (motion carried despite one Nay)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑22 authorizing prosecutorial assistance in a district court case (all aye)
• Approved cease‑and‑desist letter to Bache and Sons to halt Scott Pit operations (all aye)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will meet to finalize the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget and tax mill levies. The board will also hold a public hearing regarding fee schedules for Land Services and Environmental Health. Other business includes a subdivision plat application and a GIS contract.

• Final adoption of Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget and Permissive Mill Levy
• Resolution 2025-17 regarding Elected Officials Salaries
• Public hearing on fee schedule increases for Land Services and Environmental Health
• Final Plat Application for Stokes Minor Subdivision
• Contract with Outlaw GIS

The board approved resolution 2025‑17 setting elected officials’ salaries, resolution 2025‑18 adopting the final operating budget for FY 2025‑2026, and resolution 2025‑19 establishing the method for levying permissive mill taxes under HB231 and SB542. All three motions were passed unanimously. The board also approved August 2025 county claims, a contract with Outlaw GIS, final plat approval for the Stokes Minor Subdivision, and fee‑schedule amendments for the Land Services and Wastewater/Well departments.

• Approved resolution 2025‑17 for elected officials’ salaries (unanimous)
• Approved resolution 2025‑18 adopting FY 2025‑2026 operating budget (unanimous)
• Approved resolution 2025‑19 establishing permissive mill levy method (unanimous)
• Approved August 2025 county claims of $759,212.41 (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Outlaw GIS (unanimous)
• Granted final plat approval for Stokes Minor Subdivision (unanimous)
• Approved resolution 2025‑20 amending Subdivision and related fees (unanimous)
• Approved resolution 2025‑21 amending Wastewater/Well and related fees (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the Fiscal Year 25/26 Preliminary Budget and sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Mineral County and the USDA Lolo National Forest. The meeting agenda also includes updates on environmental health, administrative contracts, and library board appointments.

• Public Hearing: Fiscal Year 25/26 Preliminary Budget
• MOU with Mineral County and USDA Lolo National Forest
• Contract with Outlaw GIS
• Thompson Falls Library Board Appointment
• Sanitarian and Environmental Health update

The commissioners approved an inter‑governmental memorandum of understanding with Mineral County and the USDA Lolo National Forest. They placed the Outlaw GIS contract under advisement until September 2, 2025, and created an opioid committee to guide use of settlement funds. The board also reappointed Kate Baxter to the Thompson Falls Library Board and approved the August 20 meeting minutes. A public hearing on the FY 2025‑26 preliminary budget was held but no actions were taken.

• Approved signing of MOU with Mineral County and USDA Lolo National Forest (all aye)
• Placed Outlaw GIS contract under advisement until Sept 2, 2025 (all aye)
• Formed opioid committee with specified members (all aye)
• Reappointed Kate Baxter to Thompson Falls Library Board (all aye)
• Approved meeting minutes for 08/20/25 (all aye)

Weed Board

The Sanders County Weed Board will review reports on invasive species and contractor spraying results. The board will discuss the 2025-2026 budget outlook and decide whether to apply for a Montana Trust Fund Grant for Blue Weed.

• Decision on Montana Trust Fund Grant Request for Blue Weed
• 2025-2026 Budget outlook
• Approval of 'I Control My Own' permits
• Review of Railroad ROW Helicopter Spraying results
• Inspection status for Garrison and Cedar Crk complaints

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners approved the corrected plat for Minor Subdivision Certificate of Survey No. 2826MS. They also approved the meeting minutes for August 12‑14, 2025. The Rock Creek Road Realignment Project Agreement was accepted and signed. Marsh McLennan was appointed as the county’s property and casualty insurance agent.

• Approved corrected plat of Minor Subdivision Certificate of Survey No. 2826MS (all aye)
• Approved meeting minutes for 08/12/25, 08/13/25, and 08/14/25 (all aye)
• Approved and signed Rock Creek Road Realignment Project Agreement (all aye)
• Approved appointment of Marsh McLennan as insurance agent (all aye)

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners approved the meeting minutes for August 5, 6, and 7, 2025 after Commissioner Cox moved and Commissioner Holland seconded. All commissioners voted aye and the motion carried. No other actions were taken; the remaining agenda items were updates or cancelled.

• Approved minutes for 08/05/25, 08/06/25, 08/07/25 (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners approved the final plat for the Fire Cloud Minor Subdivision. They accepted the WIC satellite agreement with Mineral County and approved the minutes from July. The board also approved signing two grant agreements, a construction contract with Thompson Contracting Inc., and a notice to proceed for the Plains Airport Improvement Project. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Approved final plat for Fire Cloud Minor Subdivision (motion carried, all aye)
• Approved and signed July meeting minutes (motion carried, all aye)
• Accepted and signed WIC satellite agreement with Mineral County (motion carried, all aye)
• Approved signing of two grant agreements for Plains Airport Improvement Project (motion carried, all aye)
• Approved construction contract with Thompson Contracting Inc. for Plains Airport (motion carried, all aye)
• Approved notice to proceed for Plains Airport Improvement Project (motion carried, all aye)

Board of Commissioners

The Board approved the Plains/Paradise Fire District’s request to purchase a new water tender using subdivision funds. It also approved July 2025 county claims totaling $948,842.04 and adopted Resolution 2025‑16 updating the County Employee Handbook. Additionally, the commissioners granted roadway and utility easement variances and preliminary plat approval for Amended Lot 3 of the Thompson Minor Subdivision.

• Approved purchase of new water tender for Plains/Paradise Fire District (all aye)
• Approved July 2025 county claims of $948,842.04 (all aye)
• Approved roadway width variance for Amended Lot 3, Thompson Minor Subdivision (all aye)
• Approved utility easement variance for Amended Lot 3, Thompson Minor Subdivision (all aye)
• Approved preliminary conditional plat for Amended Lot 3, Thompson Minor Subdivision (all aye)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑16 updating the County Employee Handbook (all aye)

Board of Commissioners

The board approved an extension for the Hot Springs School District to meet the county's fiduciary funds policy, moving the deadline to September 30, 2025. The board also cancelled the Energy Partners contracts and the Thompson Falls Library Board appointment. Additionally, the board approved correcting fire‑district classifications for eleven properties and collecting the proper taxes.

• Cancelled Energy Partners contracts
• Approved Hot Springs School deadline extension to Sep 30, 2025 (unanimous)
• Cancelled Thompson Falls Library Board appointment
• Approved correction of Panorama Terrace fire‑district classifications and tax collection (unanimous)

Refuse District

The board approved the meeting minutes from April 1 6, 2025 unanimously. The board also voted to permanently remove the refuse fee tax that was due at the end of June, with all members voting aye.

• Approved April 1 6, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Removed refuse fee tax permanently (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Sanders County Board of Commissioners approved several land‑use and financial items. They granted final and preliminary plat approvals and related variances for the Wedemeyer and Moe Minor Subdivisions. The board also approved June 2025 county claims totaling $539,536.19, a lease with the Paradise Elementary School Preservation Committee, and a consulting contract pending attorney review.

• Granted final plat approval for Wedemeyer Minor Subdivision (motion carried)
• Granted utility easement variance for water line in Moe Minor Subdivision (motion carried)
• Granted utility easement variance for septic line in Moe Minor Subdivision (motion carried)
• Granted $500 cash‑in‑lieu variance for firefighting source on one lot in Moe Minor Subdivision (motion carried)
• Granted preliminary plat approval for Moe Minor Subdivision (motion carried)
• Approved county claims for June 2025 totaling $539,536.19 (motion carried)
• Approved lease agreement with Paradise Elementary School Preservation Committee (motion carried)
• Approved contract with Southwest Montana Consulting Inc., pending county attorney review (motion carried)

Board of Health

The Board voted to accept the minutes from the April 9 and May 27, 2025 meetings, with all members voting aye. County Health Officer Ron Petrie reported he will inspect the new pool and hot tub at the Riverfront Hotel with Shawn Sorenson. The Public Health Director noted two confirmed pertussis cases and four active measles cases in Gallatin County. The board confirmed it provides vaccine education for science‑based vaccines.

• Approved acceptance of April 9 and May 27, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Sanders County Board of Commissioners approved and signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Office of Victim Services (OVW) for fiscal year 2025, intended to enhance investigation and prosecution. Commissioner Cox moved to approve, Commissioner Holland seconded, and the motion carried with all members voting aye. The meeting otherwise consisted of routine administrative business and preliminary budget reviews, and it adjourned without other substantive actions.

• Approved MOU with OVW FY 2025 (all aye)
• Filed Board of Health meeting minutes

Board of Commissioners

The board approved a fee increase for the Sheriff’s Office, a Mast Family conveyance exemption, and postponed the River West Estates road default. It also adopted a 2‑1 resolution to place a partisan‑election question on the ballot and approved several administrative items including June county claims, an airport lease, a fire‑restriction plan, and an asbestos‑abatement contract.

• Approved Sheriff’s Office civil case fee increase (all aye)
• Approved Mast Family Conveyance Exemption Application (all aye)
• Postponed River West Estates road default to Sept 15, 2025 (all aye)
• Approved Resolution 2025-15 to place partisan election question on ballot (2-1)
• Approved June 2025 county claims of $902,830.07 (all aye)
• Approved Airport Lease Agreement for Dan Normandeau (all aye)
• Approved Northwest Area Fire Restrictions and Closures Plan 2025-2027 (all aye)
• Approved asbestos abatement contract at 107 Jefferson St. (all aye)

Board of Commissioners

On June 24, the Board approved the Sanders County Treasurer Motor Vehicle Department contract amendment after a motion by Commissioner Holland, with all commissioners voting aye. The Board also approved a land use agreement with Ken Saner for $1,200.00 annually, motioned by Commissioner Rowan, with a unanimous aye vote. The remaining agenda items were informational updates with no decisions made.

• Approved Motor Vehicle Department contract amendment (all aye)
• Approved land use agreement with Ken Saner for $1,200.00 annually (all aye)

Board of Commissioners

The Board approved final plat approval for Amended Lot 16 of Baldy Mountain Reserve Subdivision. It authorized $441,083.76 in county claims for June 2025 and adopted the road maintenance bid award to Rugged Country Enterprises LLC. The Board also supported the Park Board's fire‑mitigation plan, approved a fiduciary funds policy resolution, and made salary compensation board appointments and recommendations.

• Granted final plat approval for Amended Lot 16, Baldy Mountain Reserve Subdivision (unanimous)
• Approved county claims for June 2025 totaling $441,083.76 (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes for 06/03/25‑06/12/25 (unanimous)
• Awarded road maintenance and repair contract to Rugged Country Enterprises LLC (unanimous)
• Supported Park Board fire‑mitigation proposal for county parkland (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑13 establishing fiduciary funds policy (unanimous)
• Appointed Annie Wooden as chairman of the Salary Compensation Board (unanimous)
• Recommended a 3% or $1.00 increase for elected officials, whichever is greater (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

On June 10 the commissioners approved the fiduciary funds policy that sets how districts and schools manage county funds. On June 11 they approved the amendment request for Amended Lot 16 of the Baldy Mountain Reserve Subdivision. The same day they placed the Schedule A road maintenance bid from Rugged Country LLC under advisement until June 17. No substantive actions were taken on June 12.

• Approved fiduciary funds policy (all aye) – June 10
• Approved amendment for Amended Lot 16 of Baldy Mountain Reserve Subdivision (all aye) – June 11
• Took Schedule A road maintenance and repair bid (Rugged Country LLC) under advisement until June 17 (all aye) – June 11

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners authorized the notice of award for the Plains airport fuel system, selecting Thompson Contracting Inc. as the bidder. They also adopted the iCrimeFighter software contract for the County Attorney’s office. Additional actions included approving May 2025 county claims of $327,820.85, accepting the Thompson Falls Airport land‑use agreement with the USFS, and approving the junk‑vehicle hauling bid from Superior Towing LLC.

• Approved iCrimeFighter software contract for County Attorney (motion carried)
• Approved May 2025 county claims totaling $327,820.85 (motion carried)
• Accepted meeting minutes for 05/27/25 & 05/28/25 (motion carried)
• Accepted and signed Thompson Falls Airport land‑use agreement with USFS (motion carried)
• Accepted updated junk vehicle hauling program bid from Superior Towing LLC (motion carried)
• Authorized notice of award for Plains airport fuel system to Thompson Contracting Inc. (motion carried)

Board of Health

The Board considered a request from owners of McMillan Post RV Subdivision for a variance to allow their holding tank to be used beyond the 120‑day period. Commissioner Holland moved to grant the variance, and the motion was unanimously approved. No other actions were taken; public comments about Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security were recorded but not acted upon.

• Approved variance for McMillan Post RV holding tank (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners approved meeting minutes for four prior dates, the Public Health Emergency Preparedness task order, a plat services contract pending attorney review, and a lease with the State Motor Vehicle Division. They also granted final plat approval for the Flatiron Vista Minor Subdivision. All motions received unanimous aye votes.

• Approved meeting minutes for 05/14/25, 05/15/25, 05/21/25, 05/22/25 – motion carried, all aye
• Approved Public Health Emergency Preparedness task order – motion carried, all aye
• Approved plat services contract (subject to County Attorney review) – motion carried, all aye
• Approved lease agreement with State of Montana Motor Vehicle Division – motion carried, all aye
• Granted final plat approval for Flatiron Vista Minor Subdivision – motion carried, all aye

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners approved moving entitlement funding from Thompson Falls Airport to Plains Airport for an aviation fuel system. They also placed the Flatiron Vista subdivision firewise condition under advisement until May 28. The board accepted the Noxon Rural Fire District election results and the DUI Task Force annual plan. Additional actions included hiring a new MSU employee, approving a contract with DJ&A pending legal review, and taking a lease agreement with the State Motor Vehicle Division under advisement.

• Approved transfer of entitlement funds from Thompson Falls Airport to Plains Airport (all aye)
• Placed Flatiron Vista subdivision firewise condition under advisement until May 28, 2025 (all aye)
• Accepted Noxon Rural Fire District special election results (all aye)
• Accepted DUI Task Force annual plan (all aye)
• Approved hiring of a new Montana State University employee (all aye)
• Approved contract with DJ&A for CWPP update pending legal review (all aye)
• Took lease agreement with State of Montana Motor Vehicle Division under advisement for one week (all aye)

Board of Commissioners

On May 14, the Sanders County Board of Commissioners accepted a 7.9% increase from Blue Cross Blue Shield for county health insurance, an 8% increase for Property and Casualty Trust insurance, and approved the lowest bid for the Plains airport improvement project. On May 15, the Board approved May 2025 county claims totaling $300,935.31, adopted recent meeting minutes, signed amendments and a new contract for the Fiscal Year 25 and 26 Immunization Action Plans, and approved a new audit services agreement with Nexus CPA Group. All motions were carried with unanimous aye votes.

• Accepted BCBS health insurance offer (all aye)
• Accepted PCT insurance renewal (all aye)
• Approved Plains airport improvement bid (all aye)
• Approved May 2025 county claims $300,935.31 (all aye)
• Approved meeting minutes for 05/06/25‑05/08/25 (all aye)
• Approved FY25 Immunization Action Plan contract amendment (all aye)
• Approved FY26 Immunization Action Plan contract (all aye)
• Approved Nexus CPA Group audit services agreement (all aye)

Board of Commissioners

The Board accepted meeting minutes for mid‑April, signed a road‑blading agreement modification, and approved a safety‑window agreement for the Twentieth Judicial Court. Commissioners approved an update to the county employee handbook policy on retirement bonuses. The Marten Creek slide repair and reroute contract was awarded to Pardee Excavating LLC after review of bids.

• Accepted meeting minutes for 04/15/25‑04/30/25 (motion carried)
• Accepted and signed agreement modification 24RO01160116 for road blading and maintenance (motion carried)
• Signed agreement to install new safety window in the Twentieth Judicial Court (motion carried)
• Approved county employee handbook policy update on retirement bonus (motion carried)
• Awarded Marten Creek slide repair and reroute contract to Pardee Excavating LLC (motion carried)
• Took junk vehicle hauling bid under advisement for one week (motion carried)
• Took Marten Creek slide repair bid under advisement until May 8, 2025 (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners approved April 2025 county claims for $353,076.72, signed the Northern Rockies wildfire‑management agreement and the State/County Cooperative Fire Protection Agreement, and accepted a weed‑spraying contract with Western Weed. They granted final plat approval for the Silver Fox Minor Subdivision (amended tract B‑2) and took several items under advisement, including an employee handbook update and a Junk Vehicle Hauling Program bid. The board also accepted the lowest bid for magnesium chloride de‑icing from WE Dust Control & De‑icing.

• Approved county claims for April 2025 totaling $353,076.72 (all aye, motion carried)
• Signed Northern Rockies Coordination Group interagency wildfire management agreement (all aye, motion carried)
• Accepted weed‑spraying contract with Western Weed (all aye, motion carried)
• Granted final plat approval for Silver Fox Minor Subdivision, amended tract B‑2 (all aye, motion carried)
• Signed State/County Cooperative Fire Protection Agreement (all aye, motion carried)
• Took employee handbook retirement‑bonus update under advisement (all aye, motion carried)
• Took Junk Vehicle Hauling Program bid under advisement (all aye, motion carried)
• Accepted lowest Magnesium Chloride bid from WE Dust Control & De‑icing (all aye, motion carried)

Refuse District

The Sanders County Refuse District Board approved the minutes from the January 15, 2025 meeting, with all members voting aye and the motion carried. No other actions were decided; discussions on container lifting and recycling were informational only. The meeting adjourned at 10:43 a.m.

• Approved Jan 15, 2025 meeting minutes (all voted aye, motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners approved county claims for April 2025 and adopted meeting minutes for 04/09/25 and 04/10/25. They designated Western Montana Addiction Services as the county's substance‑use‑disorder provider. On April 17, the board accepted bids for road oil and asphalt for fiscal year 25/26 and placed the magnesium chloride bid under advisement.

• Approved county claims for April 2025 ($414,360.51) – motion carried
• Approved meeting minutes for 04/09/25 and 04/10/25 – motion carried
• Designated Western Montana Addiction Services as substance‑use‑disorder provider – motion carried
• Accepted road oil bid from Ergon Asphalt and Emulsions Inc. for FY 25/26 – motion carried
• Accepted asphalt bid from Thompson River Ready Mix for FY 25/26 – motion carried
• Took magnesium chloride bid under advisement – motion carried

Board of Health

The Board of Health voted to accept the minutes from the January 8, 2025 meeting. The motion was made by Bina Eggensperger, seconded by John J. Holland, and carried with all members voting aye. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Accepted Jan. 8, 2025 meeting minutes (all voted aye)

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners approved a $2,000,000 investment in the Short‑Term Investment Pool and authorized two $500,000 certificates of deposit at First Security Bank. They added poison hemlock to the county's invasive plant list and signed a $21,285 grant to treat Eurasian milfoil in the Clark Fork River. Meeting minutes for late March and early April were also approved.

• Approved $2,000,000 investment in Short‑Term Investment Pool (all aye)
• Approved opening two $500,000 CDs with First Security Bank (all aye)
• Approved adding poison hemlock to the invasive plant list (all aye)
• Approved meeting minutes for 03/25/25, 03/27/25, 04/01/25, 04/03/25, 04/08/25 (all aye)
• Approved signing $21,285 grant for Eurasian milfoil treatment (all aye)

Board of Commissioners

On April 1, 2025 the commissioners approved and signed a consulting services contract with Casey Leverich for a union grievance and negotiations. On April 3, 2025 they accepted a grant to purchase a new detention vehicle for the department and cancelled the Benner Contracts. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved consulting services contract with Casey Leverich (unanimous)
• Accepted grant for a new detention vehicle (unanimous)
• Cancelled Benner Contracts

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners unanimously approved grant agreements to fund upgrades at the Plains and Hot Springs Airports. They also approved electrical service agreements for both airports, signed task orders for the Plains Airport fuel system, and accepted a chemical supply bid from Nutrien Ag Solutions. Additional actions included approving March county claims of $173,606.73, signing an amended audit contract with Denning, Downey and Associates, and ratifying meeting minutes from March 18 and 19.

• Approved grant agreements for upgrades at Plains and Hot Springs Airports (unanimous)
• Approved and signed electrical services agreements with NorthWestern Energy for Plains and Thompson Falls Airports (unanimous)
• Approved record of negotiations for Plains Airport fuel system (unanimous)
• Approved task orders 25, 26, and 27 for Plains Airport fuel system improvements (unanimous)
• Accepted Nutrien Ag Solutions bid for county chemical supplies (unanimous)
• Approved March 2025 county claims totaling $173,606.73 (unanimous)
• Signed amended audit contract with Denning, Downey and Associates (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes for 03/18/25 and 03/19/25 (unanimous)