Commission Minutes – March 30 – April 3, 2026
MONDAY, MARCH 30, 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
Jade Boggs joined the meeting. Discussed the workman’s compensation with Montana State Fund. Discussed designating The Insurance Store Services, Inc as an agent of record.
9:37 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
9:45 AM MUSEUM UPDATES/ Vaughn Zenko, Museum Curator
1. DISCUSSION/DECISION ON COMMITMENT LETTER FOR PREVIOUSLY APPROVED VIRTUAL REALITY DINOSAURS EXHIBIT
Discussed options on including Fallon County on the dino trail; presented letters of support for Commerce grant to go towards the VR Dinosaurs program. Discussed Saritasa company that would be creating the VR experience for the museum. Currently looking for alternatives to have fossil displays like 3-D prints of fossils from the surrounding area.
Commissioner Rost motioned to approve the budgeted amount of $7,500.00 match if the Museum receives the grant. Commissioner Varner seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; this match was budgeted. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
Updated on upcoming events at the museum; reported on Smithsonian class progress and Heritage Fest.
10:02 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
10:04 AM ROAD UPDATES/ Mark Sieler, Road Foreman; Carl Overland and/or Mitch Overn, Shop Mechanic
Mark reported on cattle guard maintenance. Discussed complaints about discing the roads and Windy View Road needing bladed. Mitch reported on generator functioning properly and plans to put the pump in the lagoon for the golf course. New light was put on the Outside Maintenance building; Direct Electric will return to install another light on the correct building which is the cold storage building. Carl reported on vehicle maintenance; currently working on a senior bus engine. Currently hauling gravel on Coral Creek Road; discussed blading roads.
10:13 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
10:14 AM IT UPDATES/ Josh Lewis, IT Director
1. PERMISSION TO ATTEND MONTANA DIGITAL GOVERNMENT SUMMIT
Summit is in Helena on Tuesday, May 5th. Permission granted.
2. DISCUSSION/DECISION ON PURCHASING LIBRARY COMPUTERS WITH MID-RIVERS GRANT
Requesting permission to purchase library computers from the $7,000.00 grant that the library received.
Commissioner Rost motioned to approve the purchase of the computers with the Mid-Rivers Grant. Commissioner Varner seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
Updated on equipment and phone maintenance. Recent wind required the generator backup due to power bumps; discussed process of notification to start the generator. Updated on new cameras not being compatible with the current software; requested a quote to update the software. Reported on firewall upgrades for computers in several departments and relocating cameras for the gazebo. Updated on van modification for equipment and moving into different office.
10:29 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
10:33 AM PROJECT UPDATES/ Shannon Hewson, Brosz Engineering
Updated on upcoming Pre-Construction meeting. Discussed lagoon testing. Presented preliminary culvert plans for Shortcut Road and the Anticline Road. Discussed lagoon levels after pumping into the golf course irrigation pond; will coordinate with Nathan on mailing out tests. The city will be fencing off the lagoon; will coordinate with the city whenever the pump needs to be turned on and off.
10:48 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
11:00 AM FY26 WEED DEPARTMENT BUDGET AMENDMENT PUBLIC HEARING
No one appeared for the hearing.
11:15 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
11:15 AM EMS UPDATES/ Brittany Renner, EMS Program Manager
Present February on-call stats. There has been no interest in the advertising for EMTs; two EMTs have resigned. Reviewed Emergency Medical Responder training; would like to create teaching videos instead of planning an EMT class in the summer when staff is low. Discussed EMRs being on a lower level than an EMT; would need to discuss wages to show difference. Commissioner Braun recommended reaching out to Wibaux County to discuss ambulance run costs and on-call wages.
1. PERMISSION TO ATTEND EMS MANAGERS AND TRAUMA CONFERENCE
The Conference is in Billings on September 10th – 11th; permission granted
11:24 AM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
11:27 AM CLERK OF COURT UPDATES/ Jennifer Fisher, Clerk of Court
1. PERMISSION TO PURCHASE BUDGETED JURY CHAIRS
Presented a quote from OneSource Office Interiors, Inc. on jury chairs for the budgeted amount of $16,893.00 in capital projects building maintenance. Discussed possible alternatives for replacing the chairs; possibly purchase cheaper chairs needed for the jury room instead of replacing all fourteen chairs in the courtroom. Discussed looking for other types of chairs that do not have hydraulics or casters. Jennifer would like to save all of the chairs in the jury room for the courtroom jury box, storing them in the District Court library room, and looking for fourteen chairs at a lower cost.
11:45 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; Brenda Wood, Clerk and Recorder
FALLON COUNTY COURTHOUSE
1:15 PM AGENDA/NON-AGENDA ITEMS – PUBLIC COMMENT
Pat Ehret joined the meeting. met to discuss an accident that happened when she was leaving the Museum after her board meeting. Discussed injuries and personal item she would like replaced. The Commission cannot make decisions during public comment. The Commission will discuss further and make a decision next week.
1:23 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
1:30 PM COUNTY ATTORNEY WORK SESSION/ Darcy Wassman
Darcy was unable to attend.
1.Review Public Health vaccine storage Memorandum of Understanding
2. Review Court’s Notice of Division of O’Donnell plat
3. Old Business as needed
4. Closed Session – Thielen Litigation (IF NEEDED)
1:59 PM SALARY SCHEDULE MARKET ADJUSTMENT REQUESTS/ Julie Straub, HRM; Brenda Wood, Clerk & Recorder; Kimberly Jensen, Payroll Clerk
Julie and Kimberly met to discuss suggested market adjustments for Seasonals, Airport Assistant Manager, Intermittent Museum Aide, Election Judges and Intermittent Sheriff Deputies. Discussed adjustment for Dispatch Supervisor taking on 911 duties and Clerk Stipend adjustment as duties have changed now that Planner is in place, however, does extensive research on roads, etc. Commission review further and decisions will be made at budget time.
2:09 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
2:27 PM TV BOARD UPDATES/ Wayne Mangold and Randy Morris, Board Members; Josh Lewis, IT Director; Desiree Thielen, Planner & DES Coordinator; Matt Moberg
Wayne was unable to stay for the meeting.
1. APPOINT TV ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER-
Commissioner Varner motioned to appoint Matt Moberg to the TV Advisory Board. Commissioner Rost seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
Randy stated Charlie Cannaliato, contractor is retiring; if further assistance is needed from him, he will be available to assist by phone. Discussed choices for replacement of Mr. Cannaliato; the Commission and the TV Advisory Board agree, Tab Electronics knows our 911 system and would be the best choice. Discussed equipment that will need to be moved into the building for the north tower, after permission is received from the 911 board. Discussed a purchase that needs to be made for another Gate Air (transmitter unit) for Plevna, at a projected cost of $7,500. Permission to get ordered so it can be received and paid for in the current fiscal year. Commission discussed making sure the equipment they currently have is updated and running before moving to the next step. The equipment located in Miles City is working well. Discussed the need for backup power at Bracket Butte and the north tower; discussed solar verses generators. Discussed preparation for the upcoming FY27 budget. Josh will assist with cleaning up and organizing the buildings.
2:48 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion.
2:59 PM COMMISSION WORK SESSION
1. Approve March 23-27, 2026 Commission Minutes
Commissioner Varner motioned to approve March 23-27, 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. Correction of March 16th, 2026 Commission Minutes regarding gWorks quote
Commissioner motioned to amend March 16th, 2026 Commission minutes as follows:
Commissioner Rost motioned to correct the previous motion to correct gWorks subscription for the amount of $8,100.00 $10,361.00. Commissioner Varner seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun stated the goal is eventually this will not have to be used in the future, after our GIS is up and running. For now, we need it. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
Commissioner seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
3. Executive Decisions
a. Discussion/Decision on sharing addressing with State and Address Management System (AMS)
Commissioner Varner motioned to share addressing with the State of Montana and Address Management System (AMS). Commissioner Rost seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any discussion. Commissioner Rost stated, this is the recommendation of DES and 911. Commissioner Braun stated yes. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
b. Discussion/Decision on Western Emulsions quote
Commissioner Rost motioned to approve the Western Emulsions quote for unit price of $750.00 per ton for 153 tons of emulsion at an approximate cost of $115,000. Commissioner Varner seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for discussion. Commissioner Braun stated this is for our chip and seal project throughout the summer. Commissioner Rost stated we received no sealed bids. We received a quote from Western Emulsions. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
c. Discussion/Decision on Change Order #003 for Fallon Medical Complex Renovations
Commissioner Varner motioned to approve Change Order #003 for RFP #013 – #015 for the amount of $4,688.25. Commissioner Rost seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
d. Discussion/Decision on Certificate of Substantial Completion for Fallon Medical Complex Renovations
Commission Varner motioned to approve the Certificate of Substantial Completion for Fallon Medical Complex Renovations. Commissioner Rost seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun stated, with Substantial Completion comes the warranty document for a 1-year warranty period. Commissioner Braun asked if signing this is part of the motion. Commissioner’s Varner and Rost stated yes. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
e. Discussion/Decision on County Construction and Maintenance Agreement with Montana Department of Transportation (MDT)
Commissioner Varner motioned to approve the County Construction and Maintenance Agreement with MDT. Commissioner Rost seconded the motion. Commissioner Braun stated this is for the Safety Grant received by MDT to put up lighted stop signs on Shell Oil Road. Commissioner Braun asked for any further discussion; being none. 3 Ayes. 0 Nays. Motion carried unanimously.
f. Discussion/Decision on creating an AI Policy for county employees
Per law, there has to be a disclaimer tied to any document created by AI. Commission all agreed to pursue the process of creating an AI policy.
g. Discussion/Decision on pursing request for input of proposed zoning and growth management planning-Members of the public approached Commissioner Braun. Commissioner Braun asked Desiree to preset to the Planning Board.
4. Old Business as needed
a. Update on appointing Election Administrator/ Brenda Wood, Clerk & Recorder
Resolution was not complete at this time.
b. Discussion/Decision on Agreement for the provision of School Health Services
Have not received.
c. Discussion/Decision on Commissioner Deeds for the Plevna Rural Fire District
Have not received.
5. Review Department/office reports/sign journal vouchers/encroachments/zoning compliance (as needed)
3:13 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion. Being no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was recessed until Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
RECESS
TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2026
10:00 AM – ATTEND 6th STREET SOUTH BOX CULVERT PRE-CONSTRUCTION MEETING – COURTHOUSE BASEMENT CONFERENCE ROOM
1:15 PM RECONVENE
PRESENT: Kevin Braun, Chairman; and Mandi Varner, Member; Brenda Wood Clerk and Recorder
ABSENT: Roy Rost, Member
FALLON COUNTY COURTHOUSE
1:15 PM AGENDA/NON-AGENDA ITEMS – PUBLIC COMMENT
No one appeared for Public Comment.
1:30 PM INSURANCE WORK SESSION/ Insurance Committee
Debbie Wyrick; Marjorie Losing via conference call; Troy Hess was unable to attend.
Healthy is Wellness-Insurance Committee recommend not to continue. Commissioner Braun and Varner agreed with the recommendation made by the Insurance Committee.
Discussed Rocky Mountain Biometrx coming directly to the place of work to complete employee lab draws. Marjorie explained FMC would like to be a part of this because they are a medical facility. A phone call is set up to discuss the details
Life Insurance-Decision is to offer Voluntary Employee Insurance, (no county contributions).
Flex-EBMS Flex will end on June 30th 2026; the last claim check run will be July.
Flex Cash will not be offered from July-December to allow for a 6-month transition. It will then be set up with MACO January 1, 2027.
EBMS Medical Claims-The Provider has 12 months to submit; the recommendation is to leave the run-out period open for 12 months. Discussed the minimum cost per month and the cost per claim if over the minimum amount of claims processed per month. Commission agreed to the 12-month run-out period. Debbie will notify EBMS of this.
EBMS Trust funds-Will leave this funding in the trust as of this time to cover claims and administrative costs for the 12 months.
Medical Premiums-The Insurance Committee submitted recommendations for the 6-month transition period. Single is the same; all other premiums are slightly reduced. Commission accepted the Insurance Committee recommendations.
Medical Plan Options for January 2027-Will need the decision to MACo by September 15th. Decision is to schedule a work session to review all plans.
HSA-The determination will be made on the employer contribution after the premiums are set. Will work on this at the upcoming work session as well.
Commission reviewed and approved the letter to be sent to employees regarding the change in insurance.
Letters of Termination-Letters will be sent to Gallagher/Reliance Standard Life Insurance; Sapphire Resource Connection Inc. and Healthy is Wellness.
All necessary paperwork for MACo HCT was signed and will be processed accordingly.
2:13 PM Chairman Braun ended the discussion. Being no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned.
ADJOURN
s/ Kevin J. Braun, Chairman
s/ Megan Slagter, Recording Clerk
ATTEST:
s/ Brenda J. Wood, Clerk & Recorder
