Commission Minutes – May 4-8, 2026
MONDAY, MAY 4, 2026
PRESENT: Kevin Braun, Chairman; Roy Rost and Mandi Varner, Members; Megan Slagter, Recording Secretary
FALLON COUNTY COURTHOUSE
The Pledge of Allegiance was held in the Commissioner’s Office to start off the week.
9:30 AM AGENDA/NON-AGENDA ITEMS – PUBLIC COMMENT
Mark Domagala joined the meeting. Discussed the State reviewing the sidewalks around the lake for ADA compliance on recommended widths for handicapped vehicles. Mark requested to be notified when the State would be in town for the ADA review; Commission agreed to notify the Domagala’s. Discussed going behind the baseball field; no off roading is allowed in order to protect the wetlands behind the baseball field.
Wanda Pinnow joined the meeting. Wanda recommended that the Extension Administrative Assistant be in a full-time position at forty hours per week; also recommended changing the job description to include assisting with the 4-H group. Discussed the Montana State University advertising for an Extension Agent.
Penny Benner, Plevna School Superintendent joined the meeting. Penny requested the hours for the Extension Administrative Assistant to be extended as the schools utilize the assistant for educational resources. Penny will be reaching out to Larry Brence to request more information on the fair and for the liaison contact information.
9:44 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
9:45 AM Derrick deHaan, Outside Facilities Manager joined the meeting.
9:45 AM OUTSIDE MAINTENANCE UPDATES/ Robbie Christiaens, Outside Maintenance Supervisor
Discussed spreading millings and repairing fencing for area by the splash park. Updated on beaches and splash park maintenance. Currently still waiting to schedule a meeting with the State in regards to assessing the sidewalks for ADA compliance. Discussed individuals utilizing the path behind to the baseball park; Commissioner Rost clarified with Mathew Domagala and Michelle Domagala on the area that was recommended he not traverse on; recommended to avoid the wetlands but can go up to the hill. Discussed renting a concrete hole saw for the chain link fence behind the baseball park. Discussed millings and rocks for the area around the splash park. Discussed bringing larger rocks from the man camp to the beach area to slow down the erosion of the beach. Buoys will be put in the lake.
Derrick requested to have Parkview carpets shampooed; permission granted.
10:02 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
10:00 AM ROAD UPDATES/ Bryan Batchelor, Road Superintendent; Carl Overland and/or Mitch Overn, Shop Mechanic
Reported on road maintenance for the Anticline Road, Cabin Creek Loop, Johny Creek Trail, Bonnievale Road. Hauled eight loads of sand for the beaches. Reported on damaging the roller when loading it onto the trailer; will be replacing the oil pan and adding a protective barrier. Commissioner Braun complimented the article written by Brittanie Jorgenson for Kendall Sieler and Troy Hess’s recent achievements at the MACRs Conference. Reported on damage to a county truck; the County will not be asking for reimbursement for the repairs. Mitch updated on changing the valve for the tank at the fairgrounds for the tanker truck. Carl reported on equipment maintenance. Discussed using chips (will not be using millings like Robbie previously stated) for area near the splash park.
1. Discussion/Decision on Landfill assisting with hauling for the Road Department as needed/ Jeff Frank, Manager of Landfill Operations
Discussed the landfill and the road department assisting each other for hauling or other needs; permission granted as long as it does not interfere with the everyday operations for each department.
10:15 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
10:15 AM LANDFILL UPDATES/ Jeff Frank, Manager of Landfill Operations
Discussed reaching out to the landfill engineer; need to install a culvert in order to finish out digging out a pit. Discussed replacing the fence around the container site with steel t-posts. Discussed dumping containers on Saturday when they are full; possibly ask the road department to assist. Discussed Baker Clean Up Days.
10:25 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
10:35 AM Mayor Zachmann joined the meeting.
10:35 AM PROJECT UPDATES/ Shannon Hewson, Brosz Engineering
1. Discussion/Decision on COS for Triangle Park and additional lake property
Discussed certificate of survey for the South end of the lake not including any private property, the lake or the airport. Discussed including 1.9 acres on the north end of the lake; will do at a later date with the lake survey data. Discussed changes to a parcel acreage due the meandering line around the lake.
Commissioner Rost motioned to approve the Brosz Engineering proposal of $15,000.00 with the County paying half up to the amount of $7,500.00. Commissioner Varner seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; proposal is pending on the City Council’s decision on Wednesday, May 6th. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
Survey should be completed by July if the City Council also approves the proposal; COS will be generated in July with discussions to follow. The County will continue to move forward public hearings in regards to the land transfer. The SIDs of the main bill will be effective November of this year; May 31st bill is the second half of 2025.
Updated on the 6th Street box culvert; 7F Services, LLC is requesting to install a pre-cast box culvert. Will schedule another pre-construction meeting to discuss new timeline for installing a pre-cast box culvert. Updated on road plat review. Will send golf course irrigation pond results to DEQ; discussed requesting for a variance against the pond liner if tests continue to remain less than twenty-three.
10:59 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
11:00 AM PERMISSION TO INCREASE EXTENSION ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT HOURS/ Sara Berger, Weed Control Coordinator; Julie Straub, HRM
Requesting an increase of hours from twenty hours (20); Sara suggested to increase to thirty-two (32) hours per work week. The Commission reported on public comments and individuals suggesting the position be forty (40) hours per work week. Discussed changing the job description to include 4-H responsibilities and evening meetings. Discussed the advertised Extension Agent position; the Administrative Assistant position could include temporary 4-H responsibilities. Would adjust hours to be available five days a week. Discussed attending 4-H Council and Livestock meetings, with all other club meetings being unnecessary; suggested to flex but could work additional hours if warranted. Permission granted to increase hours to thirty hours (30) per work week effective immediately.
PERMISSION TO RECRUIT FOR A PERMANENT EXTENSION ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Julie will draft an updated new job description for the Administrative Assistant to include some of the 4-H program responsibilities. 4-H responsibilities would be temporary until the Extension Agent position is filled. Will return for permission to hire once job description is approved.
11:27 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
11:32 AM WAGE DISCUSSION/DECISION ON COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER/ Julie Straub, HRM
Discussed current pay scale for the Community Health Worker; currently an average wage within the state for the position. Will include the Community Health Worker to the list for market adjustment to discuss further during budget meetings.
PERMISSION TO RECRUIT FOR A COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER
Permission granted to begin recruitment for a Community Health Worker
11:39 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
11:45 AM Mayor Zachmann joined the meeting.
11:45 AM TIM SHEEHY REPRESENTATIVE UPDATES/ Celia Herbel, Eastern Regional Director and Agricultural Liaison
Celia reported on legislative session. Discussed post office situation; currently requesting information on the long-term solution for the Post Office. Updated on cell tower maintenance for AT&T services.
11:51 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion. Recess until 1:15 PM.
NOON RECESS
1:15 PM RECONVENE
PRESENT: Kevin Braun, Chairman; Roy Rost and Mandi Varner, Members; Megan Slagter, Recording Secretary
FALLON COUNTY COURTHOUSE
1:15 PM AGENDA/NON-AGENDA ITEMS – PUBLIC COMMENT
No one appeared for Public Comment.
1:30 PM Desiree Thielen, Planner & DES Coordinator joined the meeting.
1:30 PM COUNTY ATTORNEY WORK SESSION/ Darcy Wassmann
1. Discussion on Contract of Services for Tab Electronics
Discussed scope of services provided Tab Electronics to the Advisory TV Board and Dispatch..
2. Discussion on Resolution to rename roads – Windy View Road to Windy View Trail
Discussed creating a resolution to declare a road for the easement that was obtained from Hanratty’s. Will include the name change in the easement.
3. Review Resolution of Intent
A COS will be done on Triangle Park by the middle of July. Will move forward with the Resolution of Intent to transfer without the exact legals but will include exact amounts of the loans; discussed scheduling for a public hearing.
4. Review Planning Board By-Laws
Discussed changing the order of the official agenda. Discussed member representation for the planning board.
5. Old Business as needed
No discussion at this time.
6. Closed Session – Thielen Litigation Update (IF NEEDED)
No discussion at this time.
2:13 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
2:14 PM PLANNER & DES UPDATES/ Desiree Thielen, Planner & DES Coordinator
1. Review Planning Board By-Laws
No discussion was needed after the County Attorney Work Session.
2. Review Scoping Survey for alternative energy zoning
Discussed the planning board sending the scoping survey; the Commission decided it was up to the Planning Board to move forward with the scoping survey and the Commission will only make decisions on budgeting for disbursement of the survey going forward. Desiree is currently researching industrial zoning versus land zoning.
3. Discussion/Decision on contracting with a planning consultant
Discussed continuing to contract with Stahly’s and Peaks Planning; both engineers have been procured to be used in case of availability issues.
4. Discussion/Decision on EAP for the Upper Dam
Reported on EAP being included on the Upper Dam inspection in order for it to be completely covered by grants.
2:28 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
2:28 PM ANOTHER CHANCE RECOVERY UPDATES/ Tracy Goerndt
Tracy reported on upcoming trainings to assist family members
1. Discussion on Alcohol Tax Funding Designation for fiscal year 2027
Discussed tax funding designation; Tracy currently is not eligible to receive the funding but will be in the near future. Will ask the State if the designation can be changed halfway through or if the funds can be held until Tracey is approved. Alcohol Tax funds can only be used for individuals involved with alcohol.
2:37 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
2:39 PM COMMISSION WORK SESSION
1. Approve April 27 – May 1, 2026 Commission Minutes
Commissioner Varner motioned to approve the April 27 – May 1, 2026 Commission Minutes. Commissioner Rost seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
2. Executive Decisions
a. Discussion/Decision on Agreement with KLJ for Professional Services for Baker Municipal Airport Lighting Rehabilitation Project
Commissioner Rost motioned to approve the Agreement with KLJ for Professional Services for Baker Municipal Airport Lighting Rehabilitation Project. Commissioner Varner seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
b. Discussion/Decision on Fireside Maintenance Service Agreement for the Road Department
Commissioner Rost motioned to approve the Fireside Maintenance Service Agreement for the Road Department. Commissioner Varner seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
c. Discussion/Decision on Montana Department of Justice 911 Grant Program Contract
Commissioner Varner motioned to approve the Montana Department of Justice 911 Grant Program Contract. Commissioner Rost seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
3. Old Business as needed
a. Discussion/Decision to approve Planning Board By-Laws
Changes will be made per County Attorney Work session.
b. Discussion/Decision to conduct scoping survey per Planning Board recommendation
Planner will move forward with the scoping survey per the Planning Board’s recommendation.
c. Discussion/Decision on Gooseneck Implement Purchase Agreement for previously approved cemetery mowers
C&B John Deere dealership in Glendive sent a quote after the decision was made. Purchase agreement with Gooseneck Implement was signed by the Chairman.
c. Discussion/Decision on designation for the FY27 Alcohol Tax funding
Will ask the State about designating the FY27 Alcohol Tax funding to Another Chance Recovery.
4. Review Department/office reports/sign journal vouchers/encroachment and approach permits/zoning compliance (as needed)
5. Approve April 2026 Payroll & Withholdings
Commissioner Rost motioned to approve the April 2026 Payroll & Withholdings for the amount of $692,486.00. Commissioner Varner seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
6. Approve April 2026 End of Month Claims
Commissioner Varner motioned to approve the April 2026 End of Month Claims for the amount of $367,073.86. Commissioner Rost seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
3:45 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion. Being no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was recessed until Tuesday, May 5th at 12:45 PM.
RECESS
TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2026
12:45 PM RECONVENE
PRESENT: Kevin Braun, Chairman; Roy Rost and Mandi Varner, Members; Megan Slagter, Recording Secretary
FALLON COUNTY COURTHOUSE
12:45 PM AGENDA/NON-AGENDA ITEMS – PUBLIC COMMENT
No one appeared for Public Comment.
Desiree Thielen, Planner & DES Coordinator joined the meeting.
1:00 PM EDUCATIONAL DISCUSSION WITH PLEVNA GOVERNMENT CLASS
Hugo Thielen, Callie Hoenke, Weston Buerkle, Turk Rieger, Julia Schallenberger and Bo Lingle joined the meeting. Bo Lingle brought the Plevna Government Class in to ask the Commissioners questions about their positions as County Commissioners. Discussed several topics of interest along with the upcoming election.
1:34 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
1:40 PM SANITARIAN UPDATES/ Janalee Ferrell, Sanitarian
Janalee reported on the State’s requirements for the disposing of mobile homes through the junk vehicle program. Reported on asbestos control going through the asbestos abatement company moving forward. Storm water control will go through the State going forward. Updated on certifications and trainings. Discussed hand washing food handler health requirements survey for local businesses; will discuss further with the Health Board. Presented updated draft of the wastewater treatment application.
1:50 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
2:00 PM FALLON MEDICAL COMPLEX UPDATES/ David Espeland, CEO; Marjorie Losing, CFO
Marjorie reported on new financial program that could potentially replace the previous program. Reviewed March financials. Discussed budgeting capital expenditures for the hospital building. Reported on long-term care elevator needing a new control board. Discussed separating Parkview 2 from the fire alarm system in the hospital so as fire alarm tests do not disrupt the residents. Discussed roof repairs for the hospital; currently trying to gather quotes from contractors. Discussed Parkview residents expressing dissatisfaction with the cafeteria.
2:26 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
2:30 PM Jennifer Fisher, District Court Clerk joined the meeting.
2:30 PM SALARY COMMISSION WORK SESSION/ Brenda Wood, Clerk & Recorder; Debbie Wyrick, Deputy Clerk & Recorder; Kimberly Jensen, Payroll Clerk; Julie Straub, HRM; Barb Ketterling, Treasurer; Darcy Wassmann, County Attorney; Trenton Harbaugh, Sheriff; Judge Anna J. Straub, Justice of the Peace; Jodi Varner, Member of the Public
Trenton Harbaugh and Kyle Medearis were unable to attend the meeting.The cost of living adjustment for this fiscal year is 2.97 % or $1.14 per hour for elected officials. Discussed cost of living adjustment (COLA) for elected officials and deputies.
Judge Straub motioned to recommend 2.97% for the cost of living adjustment for elected officials. Barb Ketterling seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 4 Nays. (Commissioner Braun, Commissioner Rost, Commissioner Varner and Jodi Varner) Motion failed.
Will discuss further on Wednesday, May 6th at 2:30 PM.
3:21 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion. Being no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was recessed until Wednesday, May 6th at 9:45 AM.
RECESS
WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2026
9:45 AM RECONVENE
PRESENT: Kevin Braun, Chairman; Roy Rost, Member; Megan Slagter, Recording Secretary
ABSENT: Mandi Varner, Member
FALLON COUNTY COURTHOUSE
9:45 AM AGENDA/NON-AGENDA ITEMS – PUBLIC COMMENT
No one appeared for Public Comment.
10:00 AM Desiree Thielen, Planner & DES Coordinator joined the meeting.
10:00 AM BRIDGER PIPELINE UPDATES/ Bridger Pipeline Representatives
Zac Weis and Ken Dockwe joined the meeting. Reported on landowner meetings for the proposed pipeline; a public meeting will be held later tonight for landowners at the Exhibit Hall. Discussed County level maps of the projects routes and landowners being affected along with railroads that could be utilized for unloading. Discussed housing and emergency services that will be needed for the influx of people; Desiree recommended having Bridger Pipeline attend LEPC meetings. Discussed overlapping projects from Grid United and Bridger Pipeline. Discussed road haul agreements if the project is finalized. The Commission left to show Zac and Ken the man camp west of town.
10:33 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion. Recess until 2:15 PM.
NOON RECESS
2:15 PM RECONVENE
PRESENT: Kevin Braun, Chairman; Roy Rost, Member; Megan Slagter, Recording Secretary
ABSENT: Mandi Varner, Member
FALLON COUNTY COURTHOUSE
2:15 PM AGENDA/NON-AGENDA ITEMS – PUBLIC COMMENT
No one appeared for Public Comment.
2:32 PM SALARY COMMISSION WORK SESSION/ Brenda Wood, Clerk & Recorder; Debbie Wyrick, Deputy Clerk & Recorder; Kimberly Jensen, Payroll Clerk; Julie Straub, HRM; Barb Ketterling, Treasurer; Darcy Wassmann, County Attorney; Trenton Harbaugh, Sheriff; Judge Anna J. Straub, Justice of the Peace; Jodi Varner, Member of the Public
Darcy Wassmann and Kyle Medearis were unable to attend the meeting. Commissioner Braun stated Kyle Medearis’s and Mandi Varner’s stances on the cost of living adjustment per phone calls made earlier today. Discussed the saving from insurance premiums effect on the employee and employer.
Commissioner Rost motioned recommend 2% for the cost of living adjustment for elected officials. Jodi Varner seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; discussed potential effect to the percentage if falling behind on the cost of living adjustment. Commissioner Rost stated that that the two absent members’ stances will not be counted as a vote. 2 Ayes. 3 Nays. (Barb Ketterling, Trenton Harbaugh and Judge Straub) Motion fails.
Will discuss further on Wednesday, May 13th.
2:53 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion. Being no further business to come before the Commission, meeting is adjourned.
ADJOURN
s/ Kevin J. Braun, Chairman
s/ Megan Slagter, Recording Clerk
ATTEST:
s/ Brenda J. Wood, Clerk & Recorder
