Sidney public meetings in 2025

Budget and Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee is meeting to discuss a Growth Policy Update under new business. The agenda contains no other substantive items, only the call to order and adjournment.

• Growth Policy Update discussion

The Budget and Finance Committee reviewed the city portion of the 2025 Growth Policy and recommended a series of text edits, including changing cash incentives to zoning conforming and grant incentives, deleting certain objectives, and adding specific project references. The committee voted unanimously to recommend approval of these changes to the full council.

• Recommended approval of growth policy text changes (3-0)

City Council

The Sidney, MT City Council will conduct a regular meeting to swear in new and reappointed officials, including the mayor, aldermen, and multiple board members. The council will also review reports from city departments and consider a grant draw and reimbursement requests.

• Oaths of Office for Mayor Norby and Alderwoman Larson (Ward 1)
• Electing City Council President and Vice-President for 2-year terms
• Reappointments to Planning Board, Zoning/Board of Adjustments, Parking Commission, and Police Commission
• SLIPPA Grant Draw #1 for $11,797.29 (City match of $154,118.75)
• Sidney Meadows Storm Water Project reimbursement request for $494,756.14

The Sidney City Council approved a request for qualifications (RFQ) for a Master Services Agreement for planning and engineering services, and confirmed several appointments and reappointments to city boards. The council also approved multiple grant-related payments and reports, including a SLIPPA grant draw and a storm water project reimbursement. All votes were unanimous (6-0) unless noted.

• Approved RFQ for Master Services Agreement for planning and engineering services (6-0)
• Confirmed Bret Berry to Airport Board at Large position (6-0)
• Reappointed Amanda Seigfreid and Preston (John) Baker to Planning Board (6-0)
• Reappointed Adam Smith and Terry Meldahl to Zoning/Board of Adjustments (6-0)
• Reappointed Terry Meldahl to Parking Commission (6-0)
• Reappointed Dan Smith to Police Commission (6-0)
• Approved SLIPPA Grant Draw #1 for $11,797.29 with city match of $154,118.75 (6-0)
• Approved Pay Application #1 for North Park Tower Replacement Phase 4b of $401,444.69 (6-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will conduct its regular meeting, following standard procedural items such as approval of minutes, public hearing, and committee reports. Updates will be provided by the Mayor, City Attorney, Chief of Police, Public Works Director, and Fire Marshal. The meeting includes a consent agenda for claims totaling $53,487.00 and approval of two building permits.

• Black Mountain Time Card Module contract for $2,550
• Claims to be approved totaling $53,487.00 (including USPS $1,131.16)
• Building permits RC2026-17 and RC2026-18 to be approved

The City Council amended the Powers and Duties article to allow the Mayor to appoint one non-voting resident to each committee for a one-year term. Council also approved the purchase of a Black Mountain Time Card Module to automate payroll tracking. Claims totaling $53,487.00 and two building permits were approved.

• Approved amendment to City Council Powers and Duties Article II regarding presiding officers and committee appointments (6-0)
• Approved $2,550 Black Mountain Time Card Module (6-0)
• Approved $53,487.00 in claims (6-0)
• Approved building permits RC2026-17 and RC2026-18 (6-0)
• Approved November 17th, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council is meeting to discuss and potentially approve several items, including a $707,117.19 reimbursement request for the Sidney Meadows Storm Water Project, a resolution updating the city's records request policy and fees, and a letter of support for a Boys and Girls Club grant. The agenda also includes routine reports and claims approval.

• Sidney Meadows Storm Water Project mitigation grant reimbursement request for $707,117.19
• Resolution 3965 updating City of Sidney Records Request Policy and Fees (tabled 11-5-2025)
• Resolution 3966 MCEP Planning Grant Application Authorization
• Nexus Audit Contract Amendment for Federal Audit - $50,800 (increase $3,800)
• Claims to be approved: $283,229.76

The Sidney City Council approved a $707,117.19 reimbursement request for the Sidney Meadows Storm Water Project, covering a $664,670.35 pay application and $42,925.34 in engineering invoices. It also approved a $50,800 federal audit contract amendment (a $3,800 increase) and Resolution 3965 updating the city's records request policy and fees. The council approved the Magical Montana Christmas parade and pub crawl with a one-time lift of the open container ordinance on November 29, and voted not to use any Johnson Park land for additional parking.

• Approved $707,117.19 Sidney Meadows Storm Water Project reimbursement (6-0)
• Approved Nexus federal audit contract amendment at $50,800, up $3,800 (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 3965 updating records request policy and fees (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 3966 authorizing MCEP planning grant application (6-0)
• Approved Magical Montana Christmas parade and pub crawl, lifting open container ordinance Nov 29, 5-8pm (6-0)
• Approved 2025 Polar Plunge Dec 4, 4pm, with 3rd Street closure overnight (6-0)
• Voted not to use any Johnson Park land for additional parking (6-0)
• Approved $283,229.76 in claims; no building permits (6-0)

Park And Recreation Committee

The Sidney, MT Park and Recreation Committee will meet to review two new items: a proposal for a swim team dock and a discussion about parking at Johnson Park. No formal decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Swim Team Dock proposal
• Johnson Park Parking Lot discussion

The Park and Recreation Committee voted unanimously to recommend not moving forward with a parking lot in Johnson Park. The motion was made after public discussion, including concerns from a nearby resident about existing parking availability. The recommendation will go to the City Council for final decision.

• Recommended not moving forward with parking in Johnson Park (3-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council is holding its regular meeting with several updates and action items. They will consider Resolution 3965 updating the city's records request policy and fees, receive updates on a TA Grant for the 22nd Ave bike path extension and Sunrise Village street lighting, and approve claims totaling about $268,367.64. The meeting also includes a public hearing and various committee reports.

• Resolution 3965: Updating City of Sidney Records Request Policy and Fees
• TA Grant Award for 22nd Ave Bike Path Extension
• Sunrise Village Street Lighting update
• Claims to be approved: $111,595.36 + $1,151.75 + $155,620.53 (USPS $1,151.75)
• Building Permit 2026-17 to be approved

The Sidney City Council approved adding street lighting for Sunrise Village at an estimated $175/month for 15 lights, with residents to be added to tax rolls. A resolution updating the city's records request policy and fees (Resolution 3965) was tabled. The council also approved the consent agenda with claims totaling $268,367.64 and one building permit. No other substantive decisions were made; several items were informational updates only.

• Approved Sunrise Village street lighting, ~$175/month for 15 lights (unanimous)
• Tabled Resolution 3965 updating records request policy and fees (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda: claims $111,595.36 + $1,151.75 + $155,620.53 and building permit 2026-17 (unanimous)
• Approved October 20, 2025 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)

Nuisance Committee

The Sidney, MT Nuisance Committee will meet to approve minutes from the previous meeting and review new properties, properties in process for potential violations, and requests for extensions. The committee does not make final decisions but discusses and forwards findings to the City Council.

• Approval of minutes from 9-30-25
• Review of new properties: 709 5TH ST SE and 1440 S Central, Sidney, MT
• Review of properties in process: 710 3RD ST SE, Sidney, MT

The Sidney Nuisance Committee met on October 28, 2025 and approved a motion to clean up the property at 1440 S Central after the owner failed to respond to a 30-day extension that ended 10/29/2025. The committee also approved a 30-day extension for the property at 710 3RD ST SE, where tenants have been evicted and cleanup is still needed. No new properties were added, and the meeting adjourned at 4:55 PM.

• Approved cleanup of 1440 S Central (4-0)
• Approved 30-day extension for 710 3RD ST SE (4-0)
• No new properties added; list being organized for spring
• Adjourned at 4:55 PM (4-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, hearing visitor requests, and considering a variance request. They will also review reports from various departments and vote on claims totaling $68,445.70. The agenda includes several financial items, such as a refund request for lawn service and a grant for a park.

• Christensen Seasonal Lawn Account refund request for 2022-2024 (fees and billing totaling $30-$184.10)
• Sidney Chamber of Commerce $250 grant for Veteran's Park
• Robertson Variance Request
• Morrison Maierle Amendment 1 to TO 14 (Lagood Sludge Removal) reduction of $40,500
• Claims to be approved: $68,445.70

The Sidney City Council approved a garage variance for 823 6th Avenue SE, plans for a Veteran's Park grant, and a contract reduction for lagoon sludge removal. The council denied a multi-year water billing refund request and tabled discussion on a USDA Rural Development Loan. Additionally, the council approved claims, various monthly departmental reports, and budget transfers.

• Denied seasonal water billing refund for 2022-2024 (6-0)
• Approved moving forward with 250 Grant plans in Veteran's Park (6-0)
• Approved 2025 Extra Mile Day Proclamation for November 1, 2025 (6-0)
• Approved Robertson variance request to build a garage at 823 6th Avenue SE with no parking sign condition (6-0)
• Approved Morrison Maierle Amendment 1 to TO 14 for lagoon sludge removal/reclamation with a $40,500 reduction (6-0)
• Approved Meadows BRIC Grant Reimbursement Q3 2025 for $14,482.19 (6-0)
• Approved NPWTRP ARPA Q3 Report (6-0)
• Tabled USDA Rural Development Loan to allow more time to investigate (6-0)

Local Government Review Board

The Local Government Review Board is meeting to discuss forms of government, specifically comparing Mayor/Council versus City Manager/Council structures, and how to engage the public. The board will also consider approving minutes from its July 10, 2025 meeting. Public comments are invited.

• Discussion: Mayor/Council versus City Manager/Council forms of government
• Discussion: Engaging the public
• Approval of July 10, 2025 meeting minutes

The Local Government Review Board met and approved the July 10, 2025 minutes. They discussed forms of government, including the potential addition of a city manager, and reviewed a proposed Public Engagement Plan for the rest of the review process. No formal decisions were made on these topics.

• Approved July 10, 2025 minutes (2-0)

Zoning/Board of Adjustments

The Sidney, MT Zoning Board of Adjustment will review a variance request for a property owned by Robertson at the October 8, 2025 meeting. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom, with details provided for remote participation.

• Robertson property variance request

The Zoning/Board of Adjustment approved Thomas Robertson's variance request to build a garage within 7 feet of the west property line and 5 feet from the south property line at 823 6th Avenue SE. The approval includes a mandatory condition that the property owner post no-parking signs for the driveway. The motion passed unanimously (3-0).

• Approved variance for garage at 823 6th Ave SE (3-0)
• Condition added: mandatory no-parking signs for driveway

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes, hear committee reports, and discuss updates to city operations. No major decisions are scheduled, but the council will review claims totaling $231,374.09 and building permits.

• Approval of $231,374.09 in claims, including $21,622.27 to MDU and $1,149.41 to USPS
• Approval of building permits RC2026-13, RC2026-15 to 16, and 2016-17 to 20
• Discussion of 504 Coordinator designation under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
• Update on North Park Water Tower SRF funding and 200,000-gallon tank lining project
• Review of August 2025 Police Department and Public Works reports

The Sidney City Council approved adding one-to-one replacement of park improvements to the SRF loan for the North Park Water Tower Project, bringing the anticipated loan total to $8,825,000. The council also approved several other items, including a street painting fundraiser by the Eagle Foundation, a new committee structure, and the purchase of Text-My-Gov software. All votes were unanimous (6-0) with all present members voting yea.

• Approved adding one-to-one park replacement to SRF loan, total $8,825,000 (6-0)
• Approved Eagle Foundation painting on 8th St SE and 4th Ave SE (6-0)
• Approved updating standing committees to 3, effective Jan 1, 2026 (6-0)
• Approved Text-My-Gov software with $2,250 one-time and $4,000 yearly fee (6-0)
• Approved PD shooting range estimate from Franz Construction (6-0)
• Approved switching Public Works credit cards to Stockman Bank (6-0)
• Approved City Credit Card Cardholder Responsibility Agreement (6-0)
• Approved City Fuel Card Cardholder Responsibility Agreement (6-0)

Nuisance Committee

The Sidney Nuisance Committee will meet to approve minutes from August 26, 2025, and discuss nuisance properties. One new property (Roche at 949 15th St SW) is listed for information only. Three properties are in process, owned by Corrine Crowe and Kerry Wilson. No properties are listed for extension or abatement.

• New property: Roche, 949 15th St SW (FYI)
• In process: Corrine Crowe, 709 5th St SE (Kenoyer Addition, Block 48, Lots 3 & 4)
• In process: Corrine Crowe, 1440 S Central (C.O.S 27-697 Parcel 2)
• In process: Kerry Wilson, 710 3rd St SE (Kenoyer Addition, Block 31, Lots 17 & 18)

The committee approved the abatement of 709 5th St SE by hiring Lovegren Timber. They granted a 30-day extension for 1440 S Central to allow for cleanup and fence planning, and a 30-day extension for 710 3rd St SE following a court-ordered eviction.

• Approved minutes from 8-26-25 (4-0)
• Approved abatement of 709 5th St SE (4-0)
• Approved 30-day extension for 1440 S Central (4-0)
• Approved 30-day extension for 710 3rd St SE (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:55pm (4-0)

Water And Sewer Committee

The Water and Sewer Committee will discuss new business including state revolving fund financing for the North Park Water Tower Project and a 200,000-gallon tank relining proposal. This meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• SRF funding for North Park Water Tower Project
• 200,000-gallon tank relining proposal

The Water and Sewer Committee recommended increasing the North Park Water Tower Replacement Project's SRF loan to cover a 1-to-1 match of grounds improvements damaged or removed during the project, with the water department paying for what it damages. Members also received an update on the 200,000-gallon tank relining, where leaks persist; no decision was made, and a contractor pay application is expected in October. The tower item now goes to the City Council.

• Recommended increasing the North Park Water Tower Replacement Project SRF loan to fund a 1-to-1 match of damaged/removed grounds improvements (3-0; Buxbaum, Christensen, DiFonzo voting yea)
• No action taken on the 200,000-gallon tank relining; committee was updated only, with a contractor pay application expected at the second October meeting and final approval targeted for the first November meeting

City Council

The Sidney City Council is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, claims, and building permits. They will also discuss unfinished business items, specifically the American Tower lease and a landlord's consent to assignment for Richland Youth Hockey, which was tabled at the previous meeting. Several department heads will provide updates, and the council will consider a work order for wastewater treatment plant glass replacement and an ARPA draw.

• American Tower Lease (unfinished business)
• Richland Youth Hockey - Landlord's Consent to Assignment (tabled 9-2-25)
• B&B Maintenance Agreement WO 4 for WWTP Glass Replacement $3,670.00
• NPWTRP ARPA Draw #6 for $9,944.50
• Claims to be approved: $169,583.77

The City Council approved a $300,000 loan addendum for Richland Youth Hockey to fund rink improvements, including new boards and safety glass. The Council also authorized street closures for upcoming Chamber of Commerce events and approved a maintenance agreement for lab window repairs. Additionally, the Council approved the August 2025 financial reports and $169,583.77 in claims.

• Approved $300,000 loan addendum for Richland Youth Hockey (5-0-1)
• Approved city staff to hang Booster Club sports signs (5-0-1)
• Approved street closures for Fall Festival and Boo Bash (6-0)
• Approved $3,670 B&B Maintenance agreement for WWTP glass (6-0)
• Approved $9,944.50 NPWTRP ARPA Draw #6 (6-0)
• Approved August 2025 Journal Voucher Report (6-0)
• Approved $169,583.77 in claims (6-0)
• Approved building permits RC2026-1, 2, 7, 9, 11 and 2026-10 to 16 (6-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold a public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget and consider multiple resolutions related to that budget, covering services like garbage, street lighting, sweeping, mowing, snow removal, and more. The council will also discuss an American Tower lease, a landlord's consent for Richland Youth Hockey, and approve claims totaling $161,219.38. Updates will be given by the mayor, police chief, public works director, and city clerk/treasurer.

• Public hearing on FY25-26 budget
• Resolution No. 3951-3963: FY25-26 budget resolutions for garbage, street lighting, sweeping, mowing, snow removal, etc.
• Resolution 3964: canceling certain election offices for November 2025 election
• American Tower Lease (unfinished business)
• Claims to be approved: $161,219.38

The Sidney City Council approved a series of resolutions setting fiscal year 2025-26 rates for garbage, street lighting, sweeping, mowing, and various assessments. The council also approved a $30,000 increase to a contract with Morrison Maierle for on-call GIS services. Additionally, the council tabled a landlord's consent request for Richland Youth Hockey.

• Approved Resolution 3951 setting FY25-26 garbage rates (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 3952 setting FY25-26 residential street lighting rates (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 3953 setting FY25-26 commercial street lighting rates (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 3954 setting FY25-26 residential sweeping rates (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 3955 setting FY25-26 commercial sweeping rates (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 3956 setting FY25-26 mowing budget (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 3957 setting FY25-26 South Meadow Park rates (4-0)
• Tabled Richland Youth Hockey Landlord's Consent to Assignment (4-0)

Nuisance Committee

The Nuisance Committee will meet to approve minutes from July 29, 2025, and discuss new properties, properties in process, extension requests, and abated properties. Three properties are listed for review, including two owned by Corrine Crowe and one by Kerry Wilson.

• Corrine Crowe - 709 5th St SE, Sidney, MT (Kenoyer Addition, Block 48, Lots 3 & 4)
• Corrine Crowe - 1440 S Central, Sidney, MT (C.O.S 27-697 Parcel 2)
• Kerry Wilson - 710 3rd St SE, Sidney, MT (Kenoyer Addition, Block 31, Lots 17 & 18)

The Nuisance Committee approved the July 29, 2025 minutes. No new properties were added, but the committee discussed ongoing nuisance cases, including Corrine Crowe's properties, and directed the compliance officer to consult the attorney about hiring a cleanup crew and increasing fines. A 30-day extension was granted for Kerry Wilson's property.

• Approved July 29, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Granted 30-day extension for Kerry Wilson property at 710 3rd St SE, ending 9/26/2025
• Directed compliance officer to consult attorney about hiring cleanup crew for Crowe property at 709 5th St SE
• Discussed increasing fines for non-compliance property owners

City Council

The Sidney City Council will consider a bid award recommendation for the North Park Elevated Water Tank Project (Schedule 2), which was tabled from the August 4 meeting. They will also review the FY25-26 preliminary budget and a resolution for its approval, along with other committee reports and routine items.

• North Park Elevated Water Tank Project bid award recommendation (tabled 8-4-25)
• Resolution No. 3950 - Preliminary Budget Approval
• Homestead Subdivision Phase 2 Final Plat
• American Tower Lease discussion
• Claims to be approved: $132,731.30

The Sidney City Council approved the bid award for the North Park Elevated Water Tank Project Schedule 2 to Maguire Iron. The council also adopted the final plat for Homestead Subdivision Phase 2 and approved Resolution No. 3950 for preliminary budget approval. Additionally, the council voted to pay $90,976.08 in ARPA grant invoices for the North Park Water Tower Replacement Project Phase 1.

• Approved North Park Elevated Water Tank Project Schedule 2 bid award to Maguire Iron (6-0)
• Approved Homestead Subdivision Phase 2 Final Plat (6-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 3950-Preliminary Budget Approval (6-0)
• Approved payment of $90,976.08 for NPWTRP P1 ARPA Draw #5 (6-0)
• Approved FY2024-25 Water/Sewer Bank Transfer of $708,419.37 (6-0)
• Approved June 2025 JV Report (6-0)
• Approved July 2025 JV Report (6-0)
• Approved claims totaling $132,731.30 and building permit RC2026-01 (6-0)

Budget and Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee of Sidney, MT will discuss the proposed fiscal year 2025-2026 budget during this meeting. The public may attend in person at 115 2nd Street SE or join via Zoom or phone.

• FY25-26 Budget review

The Budget and Finance Committee reviewed the FY25-26 budget, noting that the mill levy increased due to a drop in taxable valuation, with total property tax revenue projected at $1,922,306 for 242.42 mills. The committee reached a general consensus to recommend approval of the preliminary budget, allowing public review before the public hearing and passage on September 2, 2025. No rate increases for fee-based property tax assessments were recommended.

• Recommended approval of preliminary FY25-26 budget (consensus)
• Noted $448,000 in transfers from Oil and Gas Fund to CIP savings accounts
• Closed SID 102, SID 103, and Curb and Gutter accounts
• Directed remaining City Hall CIP balance to replace overhead garage doors and enhance front of City Hall

Park And Recreation Committee

The Park and Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss new business, specifically a request from SHC regarding parking spots at Johnson Park. The agenda contains only this single item, so the meeting is focused on this discussion.

• Johnson Park parking spot request from SHC

The Park and Recreation Committee discussed a proposal from Sidney Health Center to convert part of Johnson Park into a parking lot. The committee agreed that a compromise involving parking on the north side of the lot would be preferable but decided to table the item for further investigation. No final action was taken, and the matter will be scheduled for a future meeting.

• Tabled Johnson Park parking lot proposal for further investigation

City Council

The Sidney, MT City Council will hold a regular meeting to approve claims totaling $175,788 and discuss new business including Vestis Rug and Laundry contracts for City Hall and City Shop. The meeting will also include committee updates, such as the Water and Sewer Committee's bid award recommendation for the North Park Elevated Water Tank Project.

• Approve claims totaling $175,788.09
• Vestis Rug and Laundry Contracts for City Hall and City Shop
• Water and Sewer Committee: North Park Elevated Water Tank Project - Bid Award Recommendation
• Fire Investigation Software Blazestack at $1,500/year
• Building Permits: RC2026-6, 2026-3, 2026-6, 2026-8, 2026-9

The Sidney City Council approved several items including the Tjelde Boundary Line Relocation, the Sheehan Final Plat, the Blazestack Fire Investigation Software, and the Vestis rug and laundry contracts. The council also tabled the North Park Elevated Water Tank Project bid award and the Building Permit Software contract until the August 18th meeting. All votes were unanimous (6-0).

• Approved Tjelde Boundary Line Relocation (6-0)
• Approved Sheehan Final Plat (6-0)
• Approved Blazestack Fire Investigation Software at $1,500/year (6-0)
• Approved Vestis rug and laundry contracts for City Hall and City Shop (6-0)
• Tabled North Park Elevated Water Tank Project bid award until Aug 18 (6-0)
• Tabled Building Permit Software contract until Aug 18 (6-0)
• Approved claims totaling $175,788.09 and building permits (6-0)

Nuisance Committee

The Sidney Nuisance Committee is meeting to review nuisance properties, including new properties, those in process, and one abated property. The agenda includes approval of minutes from April 29, 2025, and discussion of properties owned by Corrine Crowe and Kerry Wilson. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Corrine Crowe - 709 5th St SE, Sidney, MT (Kenoyer Addition, Block 48, Lots 3 & 4)
• Corrine Crowe - 1440 S Central, Sidney, MT (C.O.S 27-697 Parcel 2)
• Kerry Wilson - 710 3rd St SE, Sidney, MT (Kenoyer Addition, Block 31, Lots 17 & 18)
• Abated property: Freddie M Giddens - 411 6th St SE, Sidney, MT (Kenoyer Addition, Block 62, Lots 4 & 5)

The committee decided to restart the abatement process for one property by issuing a new Order to Abate. Staff were directed to attempt in-person contact with a property owner regarding two other locations. One property was removed from the list after being abated.

• Approved minutes from 4-29-25 (4-0)
• Decided to restart abatement process and issue Order to Abate for 710 3rd St SE
• Directed staff to visit Corrine Crowe at Candlewood Suites regarding 709 5th St SE
• Directed staff to contact Corrine Crowe regarding 1440 S Central
• Removed 411 6th St SE from list as property was abated

Water And Sewer Committee

The Water and Sewer Committee is meeting to discuss new business, including software for fire reports and building permits, and to review the FY25-26 Public Works budgets for parks, pool, lighting, streets, ice and snow, water, sewer, solid waste, and sweeping. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Fire Report Software (Blazestack) and Budget
• Building Permit Software and Budget
• FY25-26 PW Budget - Parks & Pool
• FY25-26 PW Budget - Water and Sewer
• FY25-26 PW Budget - Streets and Solid Waste

The Water and Sewer Committee voted unanimously to recommend approval of the FY25-26 budgets for the lighting, street, snow removal, water, sewer, solid waste, and sweeping departments, plus purchases of Blazestack fire report software and building permit tracking software. The parks and pool budget was presented but no vote was recorded. All recommendations now go to the full City Council; the budgets are not final until taxable valuation is received and mill levies are set.

• Recommended approving Blazestack fire report software contract (3-0)
• Recommended approving purchase of building permit tracking software (3-0)
• Recommended approving FY25-26 lighting budget (3-0)
• Recommended approving FY25-26 street department and CIP budgets (3-0)
• Recommended approving FY25-26 snow removal budget (3-0)
• Recommended approving FY25-26 water department budget (3-0)
• Recommended approving FY25-26 sewer department budget (3-0)
• Recommended approving FY25-26 solid waste and sweeping budgets (3-0 each)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold a regular meeting on July 21, 2025, at 6:30 PM to review procedural items, committee reports, and key decisions. The council will consider approving claims totaling $358,782.29 and a sidewalk contract with the Seigfreid Agency. Additionally, they will discuss a resolution setting FY25-26 wages and receive reports from police, public works, and other departments.

• Approve claims totaling $358,782.29
• Award Seigfreid Agency Sidewalk Contract
• Consider Resolution No. 3949 setting FY25-26 wages
• Review Water and Sewer Committee’s North Park Elevated Water Tank Project bid award recommendation
• Discuss Johnson Park Parking Lot project

The council approved a sidewalk repayment contract with Seigfreid Agency for $34,567, including a $1,500 financing fee, to be paid in annual installments of $3,456.70 over ten years. The North Park Elevated Water Tank Project bid award was tabled. A street closure for a sidewalk sale on August 22nd was approved, and Resolution No. 3949 setting FY25-26 wages was passed. The meeting was otherwise routine, with reports and consent agenda items approved.

• Approved Seigfreid Agency sidewalk contract for $34,567 (5-0)
• Tabled North Park Elevated Water Tank Project bid award for Schedule 2 (5-0)
• Approved closing 1st block of East Main Street for sidewalk sales on Aug 22, 11:30am-7pm, with law enforcement approval (5-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 3949 setting FY25-26 wages (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda claims totaling $358,782.29 (5-0)
• Approved July 7 regular meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved July 15 Water/Sewer Committee minutes (5-0)

Water And Sewer Committee

The Sidney Water and Sewer Committee is meeting to consider new business, specifically the bids for Phase 2 of the North Park Water Tower Replacement Project. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• North Park Water Tower Replacement Project Phase 2 bids

The Water and Sewer Committee voted unanimously to recommend awarding the North Park Elevated Water Tower Replacement (Phase 2) project to Maguire, contingent on legal and SRF concurrence. The recommendation follows a due diligence review that found the lowest bidder, Gerard, lacked required experience, while Maguire met all requirements. The committee also discussed an updated project budget estimate of roughly $8.8 million for an SRF loan, noting the city could bond up to $13 million without raising water rates.

• Recommended awarding North Park Elevated Water Tower Replacement Phase 2 to Maguire (3-0, contingent on legal and SRF concurrence)
• Discussed updated project budget estimate of roughly $8.8 million SRF loan

Local Government Review Board

The Local Government Review Board is meeting to discuss and hold a public hearing on whether Sidney should have a mayor or city manager form of government. They will also review minutes from the April 10 meeting and continue their ongoing discussion of government forms.

• Public hearing on Mayor vs Manager format
• Discussion on forms of government
• Review of April 10, 2025 minutes

The Local Government Review Board held a public hearing on the mayor vs city manager form of government, with discussion of pros and cons but no decision made. The board approved the April 10, 2025 minutes. A request for income vs expense data by department was made for future review.

• Approved April 10, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Held public hearing on mayor vs manager format; no action taken

City Council

The Sidney City Council is meeting to address a tabled FY25-26 payroll item, including an 85-15% health insurance cost split, department head wages, and up to a 2.9% wage increase. They will also consider waiving building permit fees for Richland County, awarding a stormwater project bid, and approving several other contracts and payments. The meeting includes routine items like minutes approval, committee reports, and a consent agenda with claims totaling $835,741.85.

• FY25-26 payroll: 85-15% health insurance split, department head wages, up to 2.9% wage increase
• Request to waive Richland County building permit fees for Public Works Shop ($17,184.82 total)
• Meadows Stormwater Project bid award and contract amendment increase of $3,400
• B&B Builders WO 003 City Shop Breezeway for $164,016.00 (SLIPA grant)
• North Park Water Tower Replacement Phase 1 invoices: $518,000.03 and $790,228.80

The City Council approved the FY25-26 payroll including a permanent 85-15% health insurance cost split. Council awarded a $1,376,865.00 drainage project bid to Western Municipal Construction and approved several water tower and infrastructure payments.

• Approved FY25-26 payroll with 85-15% health insurance split and up to 2.9% wage increase (5-0)
• Awarded Sidney Meadows Subdivision Drainage Improvements Project bid to Western Municipal Construction for $1,376,865.00 (5-0)
• Approved waiving $17,184.82 in building permit and plan review fees for Richland County (5-0)
• Approved updated Compliance Officer job description (5-0)
• Approved $164,016.00 B&B Builders contract for City Shop Breezeway via SLIPA Grant (5-0)
• Approved North Park Water Tower Phase 1 payments of $518,000.03 and $790,228.80 (5-0)
• Approved $70,103.59 Meadows Stormwater Q2 2025 reimbursement (5-0)
• Approved $835,741.85 in claims and various building permits (5-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold a regular meeting on June 16, 2025, at 6:30 PM in City Hall. The agenda includes routine procedural items, committee reports, and updates from city departments. Key discussions involve alley repairs, a downtown master plan contract, and a right-of-way change at 5th St SW and 14th Ave SW.

• Approves $449,790.24 in claims
• Reviews building permits: RC2025-31, 2025-070A, 2025-076, 2025-079
• Considers Interstate Engineering contract for Downtown Master Plan
• Discusses alley repairs needed
• Reviews request to change right of way at 5th St SW and 14th Ave SW

The Sidney City Council approved an $80,000 planning contract with Interstate Engineering for a Downtown Master Plan, fully covered by grants. They also approved transferring funds for a Svarre Park fitness court and table FY25-26 payroll discussions. Additionally, the council approved multiple event road closures and routine financial reports.

• Approved June 2nd regular and closed meeting minutes and June 5th budget meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved street closures for MonDak Heritage Center Arts in the Park on June 28th (6-0)
• Approved 6th Street closure for Sidney Tiger Sharks swim meet July 19th-20th (6-0)
• Approved 5th Street closure and garbage cans for Kiwanis Club Pie Social on July 11th (6-0)
• Approved transferring $50,000 this fiscal year and $58,000 next fiscal year from Oil and Gas Fund for Svarre Park fitness court (6-0)
• Tabled FY25-26 payroll until July 7th meeting (6-0)
• Approved Interstate Engineering Downtown Master Plan contract for $80,000 (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Sent request for right-of-way change at 5th St SW and 14th Ave SW to Street and Alley Committee (6-0)

Budget and Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee is meeting to discuss new business items, including the FY25-26 Parks Capital Improvement Plan budget for Svarre Park Court at $50,000 and the FY25-26 payroll budget. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• FY25-26 Parks CIP Budget - Svarre Park Court $50,000
• FY25-26 Payroll

The Budget and Finance Committee recommended transferring $50,000 from FY24-25 and allocating an additional $58,000 from the Oil and Gas Fund to cover the Svarre Park Court project. The committee also recommended that the City cover a flat 85% of employee health insurance premiums starting in FY25-26. Additionally, they approved a 2.9% wage increase for most staff, with specific higher increases for promoted employees and department heads.

• Recommended $50,000 transfer from FY24-25 to Parks CIP (3-0)
• Recommended $58,000 transfer from Oil and Gas Fund to Parks CIP (3-0)
• Recommended City cover flat 85% of health insurance premiums (3-0)
• Recommended double wage increase (5.8%) for Hintz and Chamberlin (3-0)
• Recommended up to 2.9% general wage increase (3-0)
• Recommended specific hourly adjustments for Dunn, Lynde, and Schroeder (3-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, claims, and building permits. They will also discuss several notable items: a municipal election filing deadline change, work orders for pool and city hall repairs, a water tower replacement ARPA draw, and a resolution adopting the Hazard Mitigation Plan. The agenda includes a public hearing and an executive session on litigation.

• B&B Work Order 1: Pool Doors $3,789.00
• B&B Work Order 2: City Hall Door Stop and Knobs $1,121.00
• Water Tower Replacement ARPA Draw #3 for $365,572.08
• Resolution #3948 - Adopting the Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Claims to be approved: $83,154.40

The Sidney City Council approved a new flat-rate prosecution contract of $10,000 per month for FY25-26, replacing hourly billing. They also approved two B&B work orders for pool and City Hall door repairs, an ARPA draw for the water tower replacement, and adoption of the Hazard Mitigation Plan. The council approved the FY23-24 audit contract transfer to Nexus, canceled unclaimed checks, and approved claims and building permits.

• Approved flat-rate prosecution contract at $10,000/month (6-0)
• Approved B&B Work Order 1: Pool doors $3,789 (6-0)
• Approved B&B Work Order 2: City Hall door stop and knobs $1,121 (6-0)
• Approved Resolution #3948 adopting Hazard Mitigation Plan (6-0)
• Approved Water Tower Replacement ARPA Draw #3 for $365,572.08 (6-0)
• Approved audit contract transfer from Denning, Downey to Nexus (6-0)
• Approved canceling unclaimed checks (6-0)
• Approved claims $83,154.40 and building permits RC2025-30, 2025-069 to 2025-072 (6-0)

Nuisance Committee

The Sidney Nuisance Committee will review nuisance properties, including new properties, properties in process, extension requests, and an abated property. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• New properties to be discussed
• Properties in process: Kerry Wilson (710 3rd St SE), Freddie M Giddens (411 6th St SE)
• Extension requests: Corrine Crowe (709 5th St SE, 1440 S Central)
• Abated property: Fredrick Reed (3215 5th St NW)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold a public hearing on the amended plat for Homestead Subdivision Phase 2, which has been tabled multiple times. The council will also consider a variance request, a workers' compensation policy, a resolution calling for a municipal election, and various reports and consent agenda items.

• Public hearing: Amended Plat-Homestead Subdivision Phase 2 (tabled since 3-17-25)
• Chris Schoepp Variance Request
• Seitz Insurance - Worker's Compensation Policy
• Resolution 3947 - Calling for Municipal Election
• Claims to be approved: $68,679.18 total (MDU $9,091.43)

The Sidney City Council approved a variance waiving the sewer extension requirement for Homestead Subdivision Phase 2 on 14th Ave NW, and approved the amended plat. The council also voted to switch the city's workers compensation coverage to Seitz Insurance/Montana State Fund starting July 1, 2025, with two abstentions. Other actions included approving a greenhouse variance for Chris Schoepp, the Homestead Expedited Subdivision Review, Resolution 3947 calling a municipal election, and a $19,388.50 payment for the North Park Elevated Water Tank.

• Approved variance waiving sewer extension on 14th Ave NW for Homestead Subdivision (5-0)
• Approved Amended Plat - Homestead Subdivision Phase 2 (5-0)
• Approved switch of workers comp coverage to Seitz Insurance/Montana State Fund (3-0, 2 abstaining)
• Approved Chris Schoepp greenhouse variance (5-0)
• Approved Homestead Expedited Subdivision Review with 10 conditions (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 3947 calling municipal general election (5-0)
• Approved North Park Elevated Water Tank Draw #2 payment of $19,388.50 (5-0)
• Approved claims totaling $68,679.18 and 9 building permits (5-0)

Zoning/Board of Adjustments

The Sidney Zoning/Board of Adjustment will hold a public meeting to consider a variance application submitted by Chris Schoepp. The agenda lists this as new business, indicating a decision or discussion on the request. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Variance application by Chris Schoepp

The Zoning Board approved Chris Schoepp's variance request to build a greenhouse 10 feet from the property line, with a condition added to the building permit prohibiting a large vehicle-sized door. The motion passed unanimously.

• Approved Chris Schoepp's greenhouse variance (unanimous)
• Added clause to building permit: no large vehicle-sized door

Water And Sewer Committee

The Water and Sewer Committee will meet to discuss new business regarding the Homestead area. The agenda includes a sewer extension and an expedited subdivision application.

• Homestead Sewer Extension
• Expedited Subdivision Application

The Water and Sewer Committee voted unanimously to recommend granting a variance to the requirement for a sewer extension on 14th Avenue for the Homestead Subdivision's Expedited Subdivision Review. The decision was based on the lot already having water and sewer services from 4th Street, and the estimated $500,000 cost to install a sewer line to the property's edge, which would serve no immediate purpose. The recommendation will be included in the City Planner's report for the public hearing.

• Recommended granting variance for sewer extension on 14th Avenue (3-0)

Budget and Finance Committee

The Sidney, MT Budget and Finance Committee is meeting to discuss new business items for the FY25-26 budget cycle, including workers compensation, insurance rates, and the budget timeline. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Workers Comp FY25-26
• FY25-26 Insurance Rates
• FY25-26 Budget Timeline

The Budget and Finance Committee voted 2-0 with one abstention to recommend switching the City of Sidney's workers compensation coverage from MMIA to Seitz Insurance and the Montana State Fund, effective July 1, 2025. The recommendation will go to the full City Council for final approval. The committee also reviewed insurance rate changes for FY25-26 and discussed the budget timeline.

• Recommended switching workers comp coverage to Seitz Insurance/Montana State Fund (2-0, 1 abstention)
• Reviewed FY25-26 insurance rate changes: liability down ~2%, auto physical damage up 2.26%, equipment/property up 1.02%, health up 12.2%
• Discussed FY25-26 budget timeline: payroll budget to start in late May, preliminary budget approval expected in August, final budget in September

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold a public hearing on the amended plat for Homestead Subdivision Phase 2, which has been tabled since March. The council will also consider a $140,000 increase for construction engineering services on the Water Tower Replacement Project, set 2025 summer pool pass costs, and approve routine claims and building permits.

• Public hearing: Amended Plat - Homestead Subdivision Phase 2 (tabled from 3-17-25, 4-7-25, 4-21-25)
• Contract Amendment 2 to TO 7 for Interstate Engineering: +$140,000 for Phase 1 watermains of Water Tower Replacement Project
• 2025 Summer Pool Pass Costs (new business)
• Contract for B&B Builders for Facilities and Grounds Maintenance (tabled from 3-17-25)
• Claims to be approved: $104,091.05 total (Verizon $432.97, MDU $3,569.99)

The Sidney City Council approved a 2025 summer pool pass increase, a facilities maintenance contract with B&B Builders, and a $140,000 contract amendment for construction engineering services for the Water Tower Replacement Project. The council also tabled the Homestead Subdivision Phase 2 amended plat public hearing until May 19, 2025, and approved the Beyer lot aggregation with an updated report. All votes were unanimous (6-0).

• Approved 2025 summer pool pass increase (6-0)
• Approved B&B Builders Facility Maintenance Master Agreement Contract (6-0)
• Approved Interstate Engineering Contract Amendment 2 to TO 7 for $140,000 (6-0)
• Tabled Amended Plat-Homestead Subdivision Phase 2 public hearing until May 19, 2025 (6-0)
• Approved Beyer lot aggregation with updated report (6-0)
• Approved claims totaling $104,091.05 and building permits 2025-059 and 2026-061 (6-0)

Nuisance Committee

The Sidney Nuisance Committee will meet to approve minutes from March 25, 2025, and review five properties listed under 'Properties in Process' for potential nuisance violations. No new properties, extension requests, or abated properties are listed on the agenda.

• Review of Fredrick Reed property at 3215 5th St NW
• Review of Kerry Wilson property at 710 3rd St SE
• Review of Freddie M Giddens property at 411 6th St SE
• Review of two Corrine Crowe properties at 709 5th St SE and 1440 S Central
• Approval of minutes from March 25, 2025 meeting

The committee approved abatement for one property and discussed several others. No new properties were added. One property was removed from the list after cleanup, and a 30-day extension was granted for another.

• Approved abatement for 3215 5th St NW (Fredrick Reed) (2-0, Rasmussen abstained)
• Granted 30-day extension for 1440 S Central (Corrine Crowe) until 05/29/2025

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold a public hearing on the amended plat for Homestead Subdivision Phase 2, which was tabled from the March 17 meeting. The council will also consider second readings of ordinances amending snow removal and zoning codes, a tax-exempt bond reimbursement resolution, and a contract for facilities maintenance. Several reports and consent agenda items are scheduled for approval.

• Public hearing: Amended Plat - Homestead Subdivision Phase 2 (tabled from 3-17-25)
• Second Reading of Ordinance 601 - Amending Snow Removal Code
• Second Reading of Ordinance 603 - Amending Zoning Code
• Contract for B&B Builders for Facilities and Grounds Maintenance
• Claims to be approved: $154,486.90 total

The Sidney City Council approved several items including second readings of ordinances amending snow removal and zoning codes, a tax exempt bond reimbursement resolution for the Water Tower Replacement Project, and a contract with B&B Builders for facilities and grounds maintenance. The council also approved a schedule option for the Meadows Village Storm Water Project and re-tabled the Homestead Subdivision Phase 2 amended plat until May 5th.

• Approved Ordinance 601 amending snow removal code (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 603 amending zoning code (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 3946 for tax exempt bond reimbursement (6-0)
• Approved contract with B&B Builders for facilities and grounds maintenance (6-0)
• Approved schedule option 1 for Meadows Village Storm Water Project (6-0)
• Re-tabled Homestead Subdivision Phase 2 amended plat until May 5, 2025 (6-0)
• Approved $154,486.90 in claims and building permits (6-0)
• Approved $625,161.68 Q1 water/sewer bank transfer (6-0)

Zoning/Board of Adjustments

The Sidney Zoning/Board of Adjustment will hold a public meeting to discuss new business, specifically a variance request from Corey Wieland. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Corey Wieland variance request

The Zoning/Board of Adjustment approved Corey Wieland's request for a height variance for his shop/practice barn at Lot 007, Block 001 of the Anderson Subdivision. The public hearing was held, with one proponent speaking in favor and no opponents. The motion was made by Meldahl, seconded by Hintz, and passed with a unanimous vote (Seitz, Meldahl, Hintz).

• Approved height variance for Corey Wieland's shop/practice barn (3-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will meet April 7 at 6:30 PM to conduct routine business, hear committee reports, and take action on several items. The meeting includes public hearings, first readings of ordinances, and approvals of contracts and claims. No major policy decisions are scheduled for this session.

• Approval of Downtown Master Planning Services RFP (Interstate Engineering)
• First Reading of Ordinance 601 (Amending Snow Removal Code)
• First Reading of Ordinance 603 (Amending Zoning Code)
• Contract for B&B Builders for Facilities and Grounds Maintenance (tabled from March 17)
• Consent agenda includes $104,091.05 in intermediary claims and 11 building permits

The Sidney City Council approved several items including the final water tower replacement logo (Option 2 in maroon with white pinstripe), the Meadow Village Storm Water Project contract with Morrison Maierle, and the Downtown Master Planning Services RFP from Interstate Engineering. The council also approved the Anderson Drainage Improvements Proposal, first readings of ordinances amending snow removal and zoning codes, and the Eastern Montana Drug Task Force Understanding for FY 2025-2026. The Homestead Subdivision Amended Plat and the B&B Builders contract were tabled until the April 21 meeting.

• Approved advertising for bids for Phase II of North Park Water Tower Replacement (6-0)
• Approved Meadow Village Storm Water Project and Amendment 2 Morrison Maierle contract (6-0)
• Approved Anderson Drainage Improvements Proposal (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved final Water Tower Replacement Logo Option 2 in maroon with white pinstripe (6-0)
• Approved Downtown Master Planning Services RFP from Interstate Engineering (6-0)
• Approved First Reading of Ordinance 601 Amending Snow Removal Code (4-0)
• Approved First Reading of Ordinance 603 Amending Zoning Code (4-0)
• Approved Eastern Montana Drug Task Force Understanding for FY 2025-2026 (4-0)

Nuisance Committee

The Sidney Nuisance Committee is meeting to approve minutes and consider five new properties for potential nuisance abatement. The agenda also includes updates on properties in process, extension requests, and previously abated properties. This is a routine enforcement meeting, with no major policy decisions or budget items.

• New property: Fredrick Reed, 3215 5th St NW, Wagon Wheel Village, Block 6, Lot 5
• New property: Kerry Wilson, 710 3rd St SE, Kenoyer Addition, Block 31, Lots 17 & 18
• New property: Freddie M Giddens, 411 6th St SE, Kenoyer Addition, Block 62, Lots 4 & 5
• New property: Corrine Crowe, 709 5th St SE, Kenoyer Addition, Block 48, Lots 3 & 4
• New property: Corrine Crowe, 1440 S Central, C.O.S 27-697 Parcel 2

The Nuisance Committee reviewed five properties for compliance, including one new addition (Corrine Crowe at 1440 S Central). No formal decisions were made; the committee discussed tackling four to five properties at a time before adding more or abating. The meeting adjourned without voting on any abatement actions.

• Reviewed five properties for nuisance compliance
• Added Corrine Crowe's 1440 S Central property to the nuisance list
• Discussed tackling four to five properties at a time before abatement
• Adjourned meeting at 4:43 PM

Water And Sewer Committee

The Sidney Water and Sewer Committee will decide on advertising bids for Phase II of the North Park Water Tower replacement and review a proposal from Morrison Maierle for the Meadow Village Storm Water Project. The committee will also discuss the Anderson Drainage Improvements proposal.

• North Park Water Tower Replacement - Authorization to Advertise for Bids (Phase II)
• Meadow Village Storm Water Project - Amendment 2 to contract with Morrison Maierle
• Anderson Drainage Improvements Proposal

The Water and Sewer Committee approved three items: authorizing advertisement for bids on Phase II of the North Park Water Tower Replacement, approving Amendment 2 to the Morrison Maierle contract for the Meadow Village Storm Water Project (increasing the contract ceiling to $254,295.00), and approving the Anderson Drainage Improvements Proposal for $19,900 in engineering fees. All motions passed unanimously with three yea votes (Buxbaum, Christensen, DiFonzo), except the Anderson proposal which had one abstention (Christensen).

• Approved authorization to advertise for bids for North Park Water Tower Replacement Phase II (3-0)
• Approved Meadow Village Storm Water Project Amendment 2, raising contract ceiling to $254,295.00 (3-0)
• Approved Anderson Drainage Improvements Proposal for $19,900 engineering fees (2-0-1, Christensen abstaining)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold public hearings on the Homestead Subdivision amended plat and a zoning code update, and will consider first readings of a snow ordinance and the zoning code update ordinance, plus a second reading of the MDU franchise ordinance. The council will also review monthly reports from police, public works, and other departments, and consider contracts and project authorizations.

• Public hearing on Homestead Subdivision amended plat
• Public hearing on Zoning Code Update
• First reading of Snow Ordinance #601 (tabled previously)
• First reading of Zoning Code 11.18.28 Update Ordinance #603
• Second reading of MDU Franchise 2025 Ordinance #602

The Sidney City Council approved the second reading of the MDU Franchise Ordinance #602. Several items were tabled to the April 7, 2025 meeting, including the Homestead Subdivision Amended Plat, the Zoning Code Update Ordinance #603, and the Snow Ordinance #601. The council also approved a $10,000 contribution to the Richland County Growth Policy and sent the North Park Water Tower Replacement and Meadows Flood Mitigation projects to the Water and Sewer Committee.

• Approved second reading of MDU Franchise Ordinance #602
• Tabled Homestead Subdivision Amended Plat to April 7, 2025
• Tabled Zoning Code Update Ordinance #603 to April 7, 2025
• Tabled Snow Ordinance #601 to April 7, 2025
• Approved $10,000 contribution to Richland County Growth Policy
• Sent North Park Water Tower Replacement to Water and Sewer Committee
• Sent Meadows Flood Mitigation Amendment 2 to Water and Sewer Committee
• Approved February 2025 JV Report and consent agenda claims

Zoning/Board of Adjustments

The Sidney Zoning/Board of Adjustment is holding a public hearing to consider a zoning code update that would set a maximum fence height in the B-1 Zone and prohibit certain fence materials in all zones. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Public hearing on zoning code update for maximum fence height in B-1 Zone
• Proposed prohibition of certain fence materials in all zones

The Zoning/Board of Adjustment held a public hearing on a zoning code update to set maximum fence heights in the B-1 zone and prohibit certain fence materials citywide. No proponents or opponents spoke. The board voted unanimously to accept the staff report and recommendation, which will be forwarded to the City Council on March 17, 2025.

• Approved staff report on zoning code update for fence height and materials (unanimous)
• Forwarded recommendation to City Council for March 17, 2025 meeting

Local Government Review Board

The Local Government Review Board is meeting to approve past minutes and discuss forms of government. The agenda includes no other substantive items, so the main focus is the forms of government discussion.

• Approval of minutes from November 21, 2024, January 16, 2024, and February 3, 2025
• Discussion on forms of government

The Local Government Review Board approved minutes from three prior meetings and discussed forms of government for Sidney. The board reached a consensus to hold a public hearing on the topic at its next quarterly meeting, with the clerk/treasurer preparing public information materials beforehand. No formal decision was made on changing the current government structure.

• Approved November 21, 2024 minutes (3-0)
• Approved January 16, 2024 minutes (3-0)
• Approved February 3, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Consensus to hold public hearing on forms of government at next quarterly meeting

Nuisance Committee

The Sidney Nuisance Committee is meeting to receive updates from the Prosecutorial and Compliance Officers. The agenda contains only these two update items and adjournment, with no specific actions or decisions listed.

• Prosecutorial Update
• Compliance Officer Update

The Nuisance Committee met to discuss procedural changes proposed by City Attorney Kalil and Clerk Treasurer Chamberlin, including a new flow chart for handling complaints through abatement and a checklist for the Compliance Officer. No formal votes or decisions were recorded; the meeting was informational only.

• Reviewed new abatement process flow chart (no vote)
• Reviewed new Compliance Officer checklist (no vote)

City Council

The Sidney City Council is holding its regular meeting with several action items, including a first reading of a snow removal ordinance, a Montana Dakota Utilities franchise agreement, and approval of a request for qualifications for city facility maintenance. The council will also consider appointments to the Library Board and approve claims totaling $132,204.16.

• Snow Removal Ordinance #601 (First Reading)
• Montana Dakota Utilities Franchise Agreement & Ordinance
• McNutt Lot Aggregation
• City Facility & Grounds Maintenance RFQ Approval
• Claims to be approved: $132,204.16

The Sidney City Council approved the McNutt Lot Aggregation with conditions, appointed Jon Skinner to the Library Board, and approved a $450,000 City Facility and Grounds Maintenance contract with B and B Builders. The council also tabled the Snow Removal Ordinance #601 until the March 17 meeting and approved the Montana Dakota Utilities franchise agreement. Consent agenda claims totaling $132,204.16 were approved.

• Approved McNutt Lot Aggregation with conditions (3-0-1, Christensen abstaining)
• Appointed Jon Skinner to Library Board (3-0)
• Tabled Snow Removal Ordinance #601 until March 17, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved Montana Dakota Utilities Franchise Agreement (3-0)
• Approved B and B Builders for City Facility & Grounds Maintenance, $450,000 total (3-0)
• Approved consent agenda claims totaling $132,204.16 and building permits (3-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold its regular meeting to approve routine claims totaling $130,115.63 and hear reports from committees including water tower replacement, fencing regulations, and annexation updates. No major decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.

• Claims to be approved: $130,115.63 (including $21,717.41 intermediary claims)
• Building permit 2025-046 to be approved
• Street and Alley Committee to discuss fencing prohibited materials and annexation report with Forest
• Water and Sewer Committee to review North Park Elevated Water Tower Replacement project updates

The City Council approved the appointment of Jamie Larson to the Ward 1 City Council position, with the oath of office scheduled for the next meeting on March 3, 2026. The council also approved several motions, including drafting a new snow removal code, sending fencing material regulations to the Zoning Commission, tabling a water tower logo decision, and approving financial reports and claims.

• Appointed Jamie Larson to Ward 1 City Council (approved)
• Approved drafting new snow removal code ordinance (approved)
• Approved sending Fencing Prohibited Materials to Zoning Commission (approved)
• Tabled water tower logo decision until March or April (approved)
• Approved SRF #9C and APRA Draw #1 (approved)
• Approved January 2025 JV Report (approved)
• Approved claims totaling $130,115.63 and building permit 2025-046 (approved)

Street and Alley Committee

The Street and Alley Committee will discuss several code updates and reports, including an annexation report, a review of fencing prohibited materials, stricter regulations on propane tanks, and updates on property tax assessments and snow removal codes. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Annexation report
• Review fencing prohibited materials code update
• Discussion on amending code for stricter propane tank regulations
• Property tax assessment update
• Snow removal code update

The committee approved sending a fencing materials code update to the Zoning Commission for review. It also authorized the City Attorney to draft an ordinance for snow removal code updates for City Council approval. The committee decided to delay action on propane tank regulations until the state adopts 2024 codes.

• Approved sending fencing material code update to Zoning Commission for review
• Approved City Attorney Kalil drafting a snow removal code ordinance for City Council approval
• Decided to hold off on propane tank regulation recommendations until 2024 codes are adopted

Water And Sewer Committee

The Water and Sewer Committee will discuss the North Park Elevated Water Tower Replacement Project, including a draft budget update and project schedule update. They will also consider a logo for the side of the water tower.

• North Park Elevated Water Tower Replacement Project draft budget update
• North Park Elevated Water Tower Replacement Project schedule update
• Logo for side of water tower

The committee reviewed a budget update for the North Park Elevated Water Tower Replacement Project, noting an expected SRF loan of $6 million. Members discussed the potential need for future rate increases. The decision on the water tower logo was moved to the February 18th council meeting.

• Moved water tower logo decision to February 18th council meeting

Local Government Review Board

The Local Government Review Board is meeting to finalize a training package through the Local Government Center. The agenda includes new business on this item, followed by public and board comments. No other substantive decisions are listed.

• Finalize training package via Local Government Center

The Local Government Review Board approved purchasing the blue starter training package from the Local Government Center. The decision was made after discussing that in-person training would cost an additional $2,000 plus travel expenses, and the board determined virtual training would meet their needs. The motion was made by Whiteman and seconded by Sergent, with both voting in favor.

• Approved blue starter training package (2-0)

City Council

The City Council will conduct interviews for Ward #1 positions and review several public works items. The meeting includes discussions on road improvements, water tower replacement, and a zoning code update regarding fencing.

• Interviews for Ward #1: Jared Troudt, Jacqueline Gonzalez, Jamie Larson, and Joe Kauffman
• 2024 Road Improvement Project Pay Application #3 for $486,531.75
• RRGL Planning Grant for Water award of $40,000.00
• North Park Elevated Water Tower Replacement notice of award
• Zoning Code Update for Prohibited Fencing Material

The Sidney City Council approved a contract with Western Municipal for the Phase 1 North Park Elevated Water Tower Replacement at a cost of $1,351,524.00. The council also approved a counter-offer for the Phoenix Capital Oil Lease and paid Richland County $486,531.75 for road improvements. Additionally, the council interviewed four candidates for the Ward 1 alderman position but did not record a final appointment decision in these minutes.

• Approved January 21, 2025 regular meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved Street and Alley Committee Meeting minutes from Jan 15, 2025 (5-0)
• Untabled and approved Phoenix Capital Oil Lease with 18.75% royalty (5-0)
• Approved payment of $486,531.75 to Richland County for 2024 Road Improvement Project (5-0)
• Approved award of North Park Water Tower Phase 1 bid to Western Municipal for $1,351,524.00 (5-0)
• Sent zoning code update for prohibited fencing material to Street and Alley Committee
• Approved Federal Audit contract with Denning, Downey & Associates (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $153,509.97 and building permit 2025-045 (5-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, committee reports, and consent agenda items. Notable items include a public hearing, consideration of a $40,000 CDBG grant and a $20,000 Main Street Montana grant for a Downtown Master Plan, and a request to connect to city sewer.

• CDBG Planning Grant Award of $40,000 and Main Street Montana Grant Award of $20,000 for Downtown Master Plan
• Oil Lease Proposal for City Shop (Street and Alley Committee)
• Review City Code for Commercial Maximum Fence Height (Street and Alley Committee)
• Resolution 3945 adopting an official newspaper for official publications
• Q4 2024 Water/Sewer Bank Transfer of $1,001,885.63

The City Council approved a resolution adopting the Sidney Herald as the official newspaper for publications, citing cost and service issues. They also authorized the connection of 313 14th St SE to the city sewer system without annexation, requiring an annexation protest letter. Additionally, the council moved forward with a zoning code amendment to allow 96-inch fences in the B-1 district.

• Approved Resolution 3945 adopting official newspaper (6-0)
• Approved sewer connection for 313 14th St SE without annexation (5-1)
• Approved moving forward with fence height code amendment for B-1 district (6-0)
• Tabled oil lease proposal for city shop mineral rights (6-0)
• Approved Q4 2024 Water/Sewer Bank Transfer of $1,001,885.63 (6-0)
• Approved claims totaling $231,436.51 (6-0)

Local Government Review Board

The Local Government Review Board is meeting to approve a $825 bill for in-person training from the Local Government Center, discuss an MMIA risk management bulletin on liability and workers' compensation coverage, and consider a training and resource package. The board will also hold a 'What's Next' discussion and take public comments.

• Approval of $825.00 bill to Local Government Center for in-person training
• Discussion of MMIA Risk Management Bulletin on LGRB liability and workers' compensation coverage
• Consideration of Local Government Center Training and Resource Package
• Public comment period

The Local Government Review Board approved a bill of $825 for in-person training from the Local Government Center. The board also discussed insurance coverage and training options, and agreed to have the Clerk/Treasurer provide information on forms of government and self-governed powers by the end of January for further review.

• Approved $825 bill for Local Government Center in-person training (3-0)
• Agreed to have Clerk/Treasurer provide information on forms of government, powers, and municipalities by end of January

Street and Alley Committee

The Street and Alley Committee is meeting to discuss two new business items: a proposed oil lease from Phoenix Capital for the City Shop, and a review of maximum fence heights in commercial zoning districts. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Phoenix Capital Oil Lease for City Shop Offer
• Review of commercial zone fence heights: B-1, B-2, B-3 max 72 inches; CLM, M-I max 96 inches

The Street and Alley Committee recommended approving a counteroffer for the Phoenix Capital oil lease on 7.5 acres of City Shop property, including a higher royalty rate, shorter term, removal of a right-of-first-offer clause, and a non-development clause. They also recommended updating the B-1 zoning code to increase maximum fence height from 72 to 96 inches and adding fence material specifications for all zoning districts. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Recommended approving counteroffer for Phoenix Capital oil lease with 18.75% royalty, 3-year term with 2-year option, removal of paragraph 20, and non-development clause (3-0)
• Recommended updating B-1 zoning code to increase maximum fence height to 96 inches and adding fence material specifications for all districts (3-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council held a regular meeting on January 6, 2025, with procedural items including approval of minutes, public hearing, and committee reports. No formal decisions were listed; the next meeting was announced for January 21, 2025, due to Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

• King & King LLC (Ace Hardware) Variance proposed
• Phase IV-North Park Elevated Water Tank Replacement Project: permission to advertise for bids
• SCHR Pay Application & Final for $81,128.84
• Claims to be approved totaling $730,468.59 including USPS, MDU, Verizon, and Stockman Bank
• Building Permit 2025-041 to be approved

The City Council authorized advertising for bids for the first phase of the North Park Elevated Water Tank Replacement Project. Council also approved a final pay application for the City Hall remodel and a fence height variance for Ace Hardware. Alderman Stevenson announced his resignation from the Ward 1 position.

• Approved 2-foot fence height variance for King & King LLC/Ace Hardware (5-1)
• Approved permission to advertise for bids for Phase 1 water mains of North Park Elevated Water Tank Replacement Project (6-0)
• Sent oil lease negotiations for property under City Shop to Committee (6-0)
• Approved $81,128.84 final pay application for B&B Builders for City Hall Remodel (6-0)
• Approved bond council engagement letter for Dorsey/Whitney for water tower project (6-0)
• Approved $730,468.59 in claims and building permit 2025-041 (6-0)
• Approved December 16th, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)