HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Packet 01.23.2024
AGENDA
CITY OF LAUREL
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2024
6:30 PM
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
WELCOME . . . By your presence in the City Council Chambers, you are participating in the process of representative
government. To encourage that participation, the City Council has specified times for citizen comments on its agenda -- once
following the Consent Agenda, at which time citizens may address the Council concerning any brief community announcement
not to exceed one minute in duration for any speaker; and again following Items Removed from the Consent Agenda, at which
time citizens may address the Council on any matter of City business that is not on tonight’s agenda. Each speaker will be
limited to three minutes, unless the time limit is extended by the Mayor with the consent of the Council. Citizens may also
comment on any item removed from the consent agenda prior to council action, with each speaker limited to three minutes,
unless the time limit is extended by the Mayor with the consent of the Council. If a citizen would like to comment on an age nda
item, we ask that you wait until the agenda item is presented to the Council by the Mayor and the public is asked to comment
by the Mayor.
Any person who has any question concerning any agenda item may call the City Clerk -Treasurer's office to make an inquiry
concerning the nature of the item described on the agenda. Your City government welcomes your interest and hopes you will
attend the Laurel City Council meetings often.
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call of the Council
Approval of Minutes
1. Approval of Minutes of January 1, 2024.
Correspondence
2. Beartooth RC&D Correspendance - January 2024
Council Disclosure of Ex Parte Communications
Public Hearing
3. Schedule of Fees and Charges
Consent Items
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
The Consent Calendar adopting the printed Recommended Council Action will be enacted with one vote. The Mayor will
first ask the Council members if any Council member wishes to remove any item from the Consent Calendar for
discussion and consideration. The matters removed from the Consent Calendar will be considered individually at the end of
this Agenda under "Items Removed from the Consent Calendar." (See Section 12.) The entire Consent Calendar, with the
exception of items removed to be discussed under "Items Removed from the Co nsent Calendar," is then voted upon by roll
call under one motion.
4. Claims entered through January 19, 2024.
5. Clerk/Treasurer Financial Statements November 2023.
6. Approval of Payroll Register for PPE 1/7/2024 totaling $242,056.19.
7. Council Workshop Minutes of January 2, 2024.
Ceremonial Calendar
Reports of Boards and Commissions
8. Revised Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of December 26, 2023.
9. Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of January 9, 2024.
10. Tree Board Minutes of January 4, 2024.
11. Library Board Minutes of December 12, 2023.
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12. Emergency Services Committee Minutes of November 27, 2023.
13. Public Works Committee Minutes of December 18, 2023.
Audience Participation (Three-Minute Limit)
Citizens may address the Council regarding any item of City business that is not on tonight’s agenda. Comments regarding
tonight’s agenda items will be accepted under Scheduled Matters. The duration for an individual speaking under Audience
Participation is limited to three minutes. While all comments are welcome, the Council will not take action on any item not
on the agenda.
Scheduled Matters
14. Appointment of Shaelynn Haman and Jerry Strim to the Laurel Police Reserves.
15. Appointment of Emelie Eaton to the Public Works Committee.
16. Resolution R24-04: A Resolution Of The City Council To Adopt An Official Schedule Of Fees
And Charges For The City Of Laurel And Repealing All Previous Resolutions That Set Fees Or
Charges That Conflict With The Schedule Attached Hereto Upon Its Effective Date.
17. Resolution R24-05: Resolution Of The City Council Calling For An Election On The Question
Of Conducting A Local Government Review And Establishing A Study Commission.
Items Removed From the Consent Agenda
Community Announcements (One-Minute Limit)
This portion of the meeting is to provide an opportunity for citizens to address the Council regarding community
announcements. The duration for an individual speaking under Community Announcements is limited to one minute. While
all comments are welcome, the Council will not take action on any item not on the agenda.
Council Discussion
Council members may give the City Council a brief report regarding committees or groups in which they are involved.
Mayor Updates
Unscheduled Matters
Adjournment
The City makes reasonable accommodations for any known disability that may interfere with a person’s ability to participate
in this meeting. Persons needing accommodation must notify the City Clerk’s Office to make needed arrangements. To make
your request known, please call 406-628-7431, Ext. 2, or write to City Clerk, PO Box 10, Laurel, MT 59044, or present your
request at City Hall, 115 West First Street, Laurel, Montana.
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File Attachments for Item:
1. Approval of Minutes of January 1, 2024.
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File Attachments for Item:
2. Beartooth RC&D Correspendance - January 2024
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Beartooth RC&D Area, Inc.
Board of Director’s Meeting Agenda
Meeting 1:00 P.M. Thursday, January 18, 2023
Big Sky EDA/ Rock 31 Conference Room
201 North Broadway- Billings, MT
1:00 pm
2:30 PM
Meeting Called to Order
Pledge of Allegiance, Introduction of Members and Guests
Review Board Minutes
Congressional Updates
Josiah Porcel (Sen. Tester)
Tory Kolkhorst (Sen. Daines)
Emily Schneller (Rep. Rosendale)
Treasurer/Financial Reports
1. Treasurer Update
2. RC&D Financials
3. RLF Financials
Executive Committee Nominations
Staff COLA
Staff Reports – Program/Project updates
1. Food/Ag Program – Joel Bertolino
2. Revolving Loan Fund – Nan Knight
3. Economic Development/ CRDC – Jacy Head
4. Operations Support- Myrna Lastusky
Regional Roundup – News and updates from regional
members on projects and activities in key CEDS categories….
(see topics on next page)
Next Beartooth RC&D Area, Inc. Board of Directors Meeting
March 21, 2024- Big Horn County, MT
Adjourn
Chair
Chair, All
Chair, All
Hauge/Knight
Chair
Chair
Bertolino
Knight
Head
Lastusky
Roe
et al
Action
Information
Information
Action
Action
Information
Action
Information
Information
Information
Information
Information
Information
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Regional Roundup
CEDS SWOT
Our goals for the Roundup are to find out what’s happening in the area, keep the conversations
focused, inform the others attending the meeting, and to tie it all back to and reinforce the importance of
the CEDS. Please help us identify the projects in their area that fit into our CEDS categories:
Infrastructure
Housing
Transportation
Broadband
Economy
Upturns or downturns in industry sectors
New business openings (or closures)
Communication
Marketing and outreach
Services
Health care
Natural Resources
Agriculture
Energy
Human Capital
Workforce
Education
NOTES:
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Beartooth RC&D
Beartooth RC&D Area, Inc. Board of Director’s Meeting MINUTES November 16, 2023
1:00 pm
2:30 PM
Meeting Called to Order
Pledge of Allegiance, Introduction of Members and Guests
Review Board Minutes
Congressional Updates
Josiah Porcel (Sen. Tester)
Tory Kolkhorst (Sen. Daines)
Emily Schneller (Rep. Rosendale)
Treasurer/Financial Reports
4. Treasurer Update
5. RC&D Financials
6. RLF Financials
7. Audit
MOU’s
Staff Reports – Program/Project updates
5. Food/Ag Program – Joel Bertolino
6. Revolving Loan Fund – Nan Knight
7. Economic Development/ CRDC – Jacy Head
8. Operations Support- Myrna Lastusky
Regional Roundup – News and updates from regional
members on projects and activities in key CEDS categories….
(see topics on next page)
Next Beartooth RC&D Area, Inc. Board of Directors Meeting
January 18, 2023- Yellowstone County, MT
Adjourn
Chair
Chair, All
Chair, All
Hauge/Knight
Bertolino
Bertolino
Knight
Head
Lastusky
Roe
et al
Action
Information
Information
Action
Action
Action
Information
Information
Information
Information
Information
Information
Information
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Beartooth RC&D
Board Meeting Minutes
November 16, 2023 – 1:00 pm
Sibanye-Stillwater Mine Conference Room
Members Present:
Joel Bertolino, BRCD
Nan Knight, BRCD
Jacy Head, BRCD
Myrna Lastusky, BRCD
Commissioner Melanie Roe, Sweet Grass County
Lorene Hintz, SBDC
Kayla Vokral, SBDC
Tory Kolkhorst, Sen. Daines’ Office
Commissioner Don Jones, Yellowstone County
Present on Zoom: Thank you, Sibanye-Stillwater Mine, for the grant to help us purchase our Meeting Owls!
Emily Schneller, Rep. Rosendale’s Office
Josiah Porcel, Sen. Tester’s Office
Ryan VanBallegooyen, Billings Job Service
Heidi Sparks, City of Laurel
Holly Higgins, FIB Hardin
Meeting Called to Order: Melanie Roe called the meeting to order.
Pledge of Allegiance, Introduction of Members and Guests
Review September Board Minutes (Action): Don Jones motioned to approve the minutes as presented;
Lorene Hintz seconded. Motion passed.
Congressional Updates:
Tory Kolkhorst (Sen. Daines)
o Continuing resolution just passed – Sen. Daines voted in favor to avoid government
shutdown. Will extend current Farm Bill and cut spending 15% across the board with
exception of DoD and the V.A.
o Requesting update on spy balloon investigation from Biden admin ahead of Pres. Xi’s visit.
Sent letter to FBI Director Wray – how did China get this into U.S. airspace?
o Senate Finance Healthcare subcommittee – Sen. Daines discuss the importance of expanding
telehealth services, especially for rural areas.
o Senate banking hearing – Sen. Daines pressed Federal Reserve vice-chairman Michael Barr
about a new proposal that would limit credit availability to small businesses. Sen. Daines &
Republican colleagues urged the Fed to immediately withdraw the proposal.
o With Israel/Gaza war, Senator continues calling for increase in border security & warns of
terrorism threats here. He has also condemned all instances of antisemitism.
o Voted against confirmation of Biden’s nominee as Ambassador to Israel, Jack Lew, who has a
history of coddling Iran.
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o Senator continues to condemn the Biden admin’s anti-energy policies that are hurting national
security and would shut down Colstrip and other power plants.
Emily Schneller (Rep. Rosendale)
o New Speaker of House – Mike Johnson. 2-part continuing resolution (CR) passed by House
and Senate – includes funding for 4 bills that will be extended until Jan. 19th. Funding for
remaining 8 bills is extended until Feb. 2. Emily can provide details if anyone wants.
o Farm Bill lumped in with C.R. to extend current provisions for a year. Congressman was
opposed to this for 2 reasons: believes we should be voting on single-issue legislation and
because it doesn’t give us a chance to update the bill or advocate for Montana’s specific
priorities for the Farm Bill specifically. He did vote against the CR along with 92 Republicans
and 2 Democrats.
o House has passed 7 individual appropriation bills.
o Israel – Congressman supported bill in House to support funding for Israel rather than use the
funding for Biden’s 87,000 IRS agents.
Josiah Porcel (Sen. Tester)
o Sen. Tester wrote a letter to Pres. Biden urging him to address concerns with Pres. Xi Jinping
at upcoming meeting – urged clarity in rejecting Chinese aggression, spy balloon, fentanyl
crisis, and unfair trade practices negatively affecting Montana producers.
o Confronted head of DHS Sen. Mayorkas and expressed concern over failure to secure
southern border – urged admin to prioritize and supply resources to combat deadly flow of
fentanyl. Seeing spillover effect of border issues in Billings.
o Senator introduced legislation to address affordable housing in MT – Preservation and
Reinvestment Initiative for Community Enhancement Act – aims to revitalize State’s
affordable housing supply by establishing a permanent manufactured housing community
improvement grant program (PRICE grant program). Rising taxes and cost of living makes
this an important topic.
o Town Hall in Butte – only member of MT delegation who does in-person town halls to let
folks freely express their opinions on D.C. happenings.
o Senator is expressing support for Israel, condemned terrorist attacks, wants to make sure the
$6 billion in Iranian assets from the Iranian deal are frozen.
Treasurer/Financial Reports: Nan Knight
RLF and RC&D Financials (ACTION)
P. 8 of materials
RLF current standing – currently 21 loans in 5-county regions. 1 loan will be paid out at end of
month.
1 new loan closed last month in Hardin.
Able to drawdown some of our RMAP TA assistance this month.
Finished audit process with JCCS.
Note where the bank balance is sitting right now of all our revolving loans.
Working on a project in Red Lodge right now for 2nd position on a Main Street building.
Pg. 9 is Beartooth books and where they are sitting.
ACTION: Kayla Vokral motioned to approve the financials as presented. Don Jones seconded.
Motion carried.
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Nan said she worked with JCCS, our new auditor this year, and everything went very smoothly. She
highly recommends them.
Audit (ACTION)
Nan provided a few copies of the most recent audit for anyone who wants to examine them.
She presented the completed audit draft to the board. Wrote off a couple loans that were outstanding
for many years. Nan wants clean books moving forward, & the audit firm is helping.
Don asked if we set up a new policy for writing off old, bad loans. Yes, it is 3 years now, and there is
a process for writing them off to better absorb the loss.
For example, in QuickBooks, if we have $100,000 loan, you put that in and a $5,000 placeholder for
interest. The $5k is just a placeholder, not owed by the business, but it’s still in QuickBooks and still
shows a balance. It’s hard to get rid of without showing a loss.
o Melanie asked if it will show as a future asset?
o Nan said the auditors created a different account that won’t affect the books but it still tracks
the charges. The placeholder idea doesn’t work well, so this is a big improvement.
Once we get through 2023 audits, then everything will be new and fresh and on track.
This has been messed up for at least a decade from before Jillann’s time.
We have an amortization schedule that tracks our loans, but it’s not loan-tracking software. Auditor
recommended getting the correct loan-tracking software, so we will get what they recommend.
o Cost will be in the $1,000-$1500 range – one-time cost
Nan will still use QuickBooks for accounting, but the loan-tracking will also go in this new software.
It will probably replace the T-value that she currently does.
o Don said that Yellowstone is going with JCCS next year, too.
ACTION: Don Jones motioned to approve the 2022 audit as presented. Lorene Hintz seconded.
Motion carried.
MOUs: Joel Bertolino
Have conducted half of our annual MOUs and it’s been a pleasure to chat with the commissioners and
city councils to see what their upcoming priorities and goals are and share what activities we’ve been
doing.
Staff Reports
Food & Ag: Joel Bertolino
Recent training in Butte for FADCs and discussed Local Food in Schools program. Some OPI folks
were there to discuss different options. Have been brainstorming some of the handout materials to get
to schools to give them ideas on how they can use local food.
Pre-app for GTA funding was in October. Assisted 4 clients; 2 have received funding and haven’t
heard from other 2 yet.
3 meat-processing applications went in. They had a lot of applications (25) this round.
VAPG
o Oswald Farms received funding
o S-Ranch did not
o Speedy and Flo’s Sweet Corn – assisted with pre-app phase and hope to assist them with
SBDC’s help on the next phase.
J&D Meats – Nan and Joel will be visiting with them soon on RMAP
Yellowstone Pasta – got a green light on pre-app and will be submitting a full application.
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Undammed Distilling – assisted a little but haven’t heard if they were approved yet.
Becky’s Berries – worked with Lane Gobbs from MMEC and Joel and Nan visited recently to discuss
marketing for new product line of mustards. New equipment.
Fishtail General Store – Joel, Nan and Lane visited their location across from the general store.
o Nan said it’s very amazing. They do all the breakfast burritos and sandwiches for every City
Brew store. Their warehouse cranks out a LOT of food.
o Lane will be helping her moving forward too.
o Katie Martin, the owner, is very energetic and would be happy to give a tour.
o Beartooth started working with her 12 years ago and helped her with a grant for signage and
have continued to stay in touch.
o Kayla said Katie might be a great podcast guest. Nan or Joel will send contact to Kayla
Vokral and Don Jones.
Yellowstone Valley Farms – also interested in a REAP grant
Economic Development: Jacy Head
BSTF grant program will no longer exist. They are transitioning to the Montana Growth Fund
(MGF). BSTF was a grant, but MGF will be loans.
o We still have 1 BSTF Planning Grant that is due Dec. 30th.
2 RCDI grants still moving forward
o BHC – Economic development and housing
o Red Lodge – solely focused on housing
CRDC Re-certification process just finished – THANK YOU for all the letters of support. It was an
RFP process, and we had to submit our proposal as $50,000. We’ve historically received almost
$72,000, so hopefully the State will adjust the amounts. Currently have 11 CRDCs; if another region
applies, the pie will be divided even more.
Helping Hands Food Bank – waiting on different parties to comment on the draft report produced by
TetraTech. Project has gone on longer than anticipated, but we’re hoping to make Petra Fund
available for cleanup.
Rocky Fork Inn site in Red Lodge – major property that was impacted by 2022 flooding. Waiting on
FEMA buy-out; once this is resolved, we will do a Phase 1 assessment, then do demolition and
disposal. A contractor reached out to Jacy who could probably use some of the demolished materials.
The demo will be free-of-charge.
o Tori asked if we’ve been working with The Yodeler at all? Jacy explained that we were
approached about the Paul Bruhn grant application, and we volunteered to sit on their
committee. That funding would likely help that business.
Brownfields Assessment Grant – needed to update some policies before final submission to EPA for
pre-award compliance. Once released, we can put out our RFP for Qualified Environmental
Professional (QEP).
o Need to have a Brownfields Steering Committee to prioritize sites. If anyone is interested,
please reach out to Jacy! Just have one interested member so far, and he is from the Crow
Tribe.
MT Community Foundation disaster recovery funds: All funds disbursed; waiting on final
reports/photos back from grantees to submit our report to MCF.
DOC-Business Attraction: Jacy is attending monthly check-in meetings. Nan has been very helpful in
meeting with clients. We’ve decided it would be helpful to have an informal County representative
that we could reach out to if certain projects come along.
Additional clients we have worked with:
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o One Health – master neighborhood plan in Hardin
o Sandstone School – reached out for grant writer referrals
o Little Bighorn Camp – possible Brownfields project
o Town of Lodge Grass – another Brownfields project; priority site from our application.
o Sports Hut – Columbus potential Brownfields site; maintaining communications
o Carl Hamming – other people are becoming interested in RCDI grants, so he reached out to
Jacy.
REGIONAL ROUNDUP: Commissioner Melanie Roe
Kayla Vokral:
Small Business Saturday on Nov. 25th
o Have success stories to submit to SBA to show what we are doing. This year we wanted to
make a bigger deal. Had a party with our 2 success stories: Molly and Friends Doggy Daycare
in Laurel and Meadowlark Brewery. 8 other businesses are participating in Small Business
Saturday, offering discounts if you use the code Vault at checkout. This social media
campaign involves some great giveaways!
3rd year participating with Youth Entrepreneurship Market - 1st weekend in December during Art
Walk – 70 high school entrepreneurs selling their goods. Fun time downtown from 5-8 pm.
Allegiant Airlines – our business recruitment senior director spoke with them about nonstop flights to
LA, and they are going to do that. In May those will start again.
MEDA fall conference: Steve Arveschoug got the Anthony J. Priete Champion of Economic
Development Award, and The Vault and our MT APEX Accelerator received Economic Impact
awards.
Lorene/Kayla: Recently found out that starting Jan. 1 new businesses will be federally mandated to
sign up in an online system - CyberSecurity issue. If they don’t register, they risk a $5,000 fine.
We’re still learning more information about that. There will be a grace period for existing businesses
to sign up. Once Lorene and Kayla learn more, they will send out more details for Beartooth to share
with clients and board members.
o Rock31 website has Steps to Establish Your Business – will put it in that. Under FAQ. Kayla
& Lorene will share the info with us when they know more.
Lorene:
o Spoke with Dianne in Community Development and she did a Brownfields presentation in
Laurel – Jacy spoke too. She said it went real well.
o Continue to refer people to the Beartooth Regional Housing Study; it is still being utilized by
many people.
Ryan:
o State Workforce Innovation Board (SWIB) Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act
(WIOA) outreach as it relates to workforce – dates are getting put together. Ryan included
Beartooth and BSED on the invites. They are putting together a state plan and want to hear
from businesses, stakeholders and elected officials about what we’re seeing in workforce
development. Want to continue receiving training dollars – incorporates DLI, OPI, DPHS
programs and others. Please attend if possible – it’s important.
Holly:
o New storage units going in behind convenience store (behind McDonalds) – fenced off, gravel
in, buildings going up, and almost complete.
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o 2 vet clinics in Hardin – Vet Barn and Animal Care Center. Vet Barn is for sale and they do a
lot of the large animal care; one vet is leaving. Closing on 12/31 whether or not it is sold. One
vet who worked for Vet Barn is starting a mobile unit, which will help, but this is a problem
for ag producers moving forward.
o First Interstate Bank building downtown hasn’t sold. Bank may decide to donate the building,
and it would have to go to a nonprofit. Any recommendations for a nonprofit if they decide to
donate? Let Holly know of any ideas.
o Love’s truck stop is putting in an RV park, and that is coming along well. Will just have
electrical hook-ups. Might hurt local KOA business.
o Golf course under new ownership isn’t looking real good. Between cost and poor conditions,
some members will not be renewing.
o KOA decided to stay open year-round. They are housing some of the traveling nurses.
Dan Lowe, Big Horn Conservation District:
o Dan’s story about a bike smuggler reminded us that sometimes in our effort to pinpoint things
we are doing, we look so closely we don’t get a full picture of the rest of what we are trying to
accomplish.
o Working on stream purity between Big Horn and Yellowstone Conservation district
jurisdictions. Trying to get community involvement to be aware of issues and work together.
o Aquatic station checkpoints – very successful year. Have had 2 stations going. District
received an “Atta boy” for their ability to largely stop the drive-bys and bring down from 40%
to 5%.
Ryan said we have elections coming up in January. May need someone else to join the Executive
Committee, so please consider that.
Kayla Vokral motioned to adjourn the meeting; Lorene Hintz seconded. Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 2:27 pm. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
Next Beartooth RC&D Board of Directors Meeting: January 18, 2023 - Yellowstone County
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Revolving Loan Fund Books- October 2023
Loan Client Review
County # of loans $ Loaned out
Big Horn 2 $201,096.56
Stillwater 1 $144,466.74
Yellowstone 12 $889,437.20
Carbon 3 $367,769.38
Sweet Grass 2 $148,235.77 Total:
20 $1,751,005.65
One Yellowstone county loan will be paid off this month.
One loan in Hardin closed last month.
1st RMAP TA drawdown
2022 Daft Audit completed for review and approval.
Bank Balances as of October 31, 2023 Total available for lending
Bank of Joliet- RMAP $ 152,198.53 $ 152,198.53 $300,000 (still
waiting to be drawn down)
Bank of Joliet – RMAP LOAN LOSS $ 2,500.94 $ 0.00
Bank of Joliet EDA $ 8,877.47 $ 8,877.47
Bank of Joliet-CDBG $ 80,846.40 $ 80,846.40
Bank of Joliet- IRP $ 137,766.10 $ 92,766.00
Bank of Joliet-Fromberg $ 31,441.83 $ 31,441.83
Available: $ 352.884.32
Restricted Accounts Principal amounts paid back
FIB – SSBCI 2.0 $ 148,621.00 $ 1,257.91 BOJ-
SSBCI 2.0 $ 79,651.50 $ 499.81
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Revolving Loan Fund Books- December 2023
Loan Client Review
County # of loans $ Loaned out
Big Horn 2 $199,558.92
Stillwater 1 $143,209.43
Yellowstone 11 $755,236.48
Carbon 3 $366,769.68
Sweet Grass 2 $143,544.47 Total:
18 $1,608,318.98
One Yellowstone county loan paid off this month.
New IRP Loan fund application submitted to USDA
Two potential RMAP loan
Bank Balances as of December 31, 2023 Total available for lending
Bank of Joliet- RMAP $ 158,737.65 $ 153,671.64 $300,000 (still
waiting to be drawn down)
Bank of Joliet – RMAP LOAN LOSS $ 2,500.94 $ 0.00
Bank of Joliet EDA $ 9,608.29 $ 9,608.29
Bank of Joliet-CDBG $ 96,985.09 $ 96,985.09
Bank of Joliet- IRP $ 163,347.04 $ 163,347.04
Bank of Joliet-Fromberg $ 31,477.49 $ 31,477.49
Available: $ 455,089.55
Restricted Accounts Principal amounts paid back
FIB – SSBCI 2.0 $ 148,621.00 $ 2015.59 BOJ-
SSBCI 2.0 $ 79,651.50 $ 1,906.06
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Beartooth RC&D Budget Comparison
2023 Income 2024 Income
INCOME Budget Actual Budget Actual Budget Actual Budget Actual
AG-FOOD AND AG CENTER85,007 73,538 45,000 70,057 AG-FOOD AND AG CENTER45,000 48,706 AG-FOOD AND AG CENTER 60,000 60,000
AG-MCDC 1,000 500 0 Specialty Crop Block 35,000 31,286 Specialty Crop Block 58,166 58,166
BOARD - EDA SPONSOR DUES55,907 54,614 56,979 56,844 BOARD - EDA SPONSOR DUES56,979 55,711 FARM TO SCHOOL 1,200 1,200
BOARD-INTEREST INCOME 400 300 400 845 BOARD-INTEREST INCOME 400 736 REAP 5,000 5,000
BOARD-FOUNDATION MONEY3,700 3,373 3,300 3,830 BOARD-FOUNDATION MONEY3,300 3,641 BOARD - EDA SPONSOR DUES 56,979 56,210
RLF-STAFF REIMBURSE 18,000 18,000 0 RLF-STAFF REIMBURSE 15,000 5,066 BOARD-INTEREST INCOME 750 750
RLF-ORIG FEES 5,000 7,500 6,152 RLF-ORIG FEES 5,000 2,764 BOARD-FOUNDATION MONEY 3,300 3,300
CRDC 71,907 71,844 71,000 71,844 CRDC 71,000 71,844 RLF-STAFF REIMBURSE 15,000 15,000
CGWG/ fuels 6,147 EDA - GRANT 70,000 70,000 RLF-ORIG FEES 5,000 5,000
MISC GRANT ADMIN $10,750 12,750 BSTF ADMIN $4,000 RLF- RMAP 12,500 12,500
EDA - GRANT 70,000 70,000 70,000 70,000 RCDI ( Big Horn) 2,500 2,444 BROWNFIELD 19,250 19,250
SW-GRANT 224,357 RCDI (Red Lodge)4,000 1,592 CRDC 50,000 71,000
BSTF 44,220 Pass- Through 115,634 EDA - GRANT 70,000 70,000
EDA-CARES ACT 200,000 100,000 other Admin 2,500 BSTF ADMIN $1,950 1,950
Pass- Through 73,102 RCAC 25,000 25,000
Total Income 321,671 748,393 285,429 452,674 312,179 411,921 RCDI ( Big Horn) 2,800 2,800
RCDI (Red Lodge)2,800 2,800
Pass- Through
389,695 0 409,926
EXPENSES Expenses for 2023 Expenses for 2024
TOTAL STAFF EXPENSE 256,044 245,234 231,429 233,496 TOTAL STAFF EXPENSE244,441 241,301 TOTAL STAFF EXPENSE 245,441
COMMUNICATIONS 6,000 7,194 4,500 7,167 COMMUNICATIONS 7,000 7,300 COMMUNICATIONS 9,000
EQUIPMENT & VEHICLE 8,520 4,970 4,500 9,581 EQUIPMENT & VEHICLE 6,000 5,370 EQUIPMENT & VEHICLE 7,000
CONTRACTUAL 21,220 442,632 21,100 195,509 CONTRACTUAL 25,000 126,784 CONTRACTUAL 30,000
SUPPLIES 9,800 10,908 5,000 10,559 SUPPLIES 7,000 14,853 SUPPLIES 8,000
TRAVEL 10,140 1,534 7,800 3,756 TRAVEL 5,500 9,838 TRAVEL 15,500
OTHER 8,430 10,618 10,000 12,515 OTHER 11,500 9,265 OTHER 13,500
Total Expense for the year320,154 723,091 284,329 472,583 EXPENSE TOTAL 306,441 414,711 EXPENSE TOTAL 328,441 0
Net Income 1,517 25,302 1,100 -19,910 5,738 -2,789 61,254 0
The above income figures currently include both "net income" and "pass-through" funds. We are working on the ability to state
these amounts independently to provide a more accurate picture of the budget.
Statement Ending: 08/31/202312/31/2023
Checking Account:$79,322.56
Savings Account:$65,316.89
Building Account:$4,494.13
2024202120222023
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Beartooth RC&D Staff Project Updates
January 2024
Beartooth FADC
Beartooth FADC staff assisted businesses with the GTA and Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI)
applications that were due January 8th. Beartooth FADC staff has been on regular meetings and trainings
on becoming a technical assistance provider for USDA Rural Energy for America grant applications the
funding was applied for and received through the Montana Dept of Ag for funding technical assistance for
the USDA Rural Energy for America program. Beartooth FADC has begun work on reaching out to local
school leaders with information on Farm to School programs.
Growth Through Ag Projects and USDA Projects
Beartooth FADC has worked with several businesses on Growth Through Ag and USDA VAPG grants some of
these will have an opportunity to be granted funding and we will continue to assist them in completing
their business expansion projects. –
Yellowstone Pasta
Location- Billings, MT
Contact-Henry Kennah
Henry is a former chef for Jakes in Billings that started making fresh pasta using Montana hard red durum
wheat. He was referred to us by our partners Kayla and Lorene at SBDC who are assisting him with business
planning. Beartooth FADC worked with Henry to develop a Growth Through Ag grant and loan application
to expand.
Oswald Farms
Location- Joliet, MT
Contact- Melissa Oswald
Oswald Farms operates a generational ag operation that raises cattle feeds them, has them processed at a
local USDA plant and sells their own branded beef products to local restaurants and locally through
Facebook. They have developed their own retail location to sell their meat products and other local foods
and it is located near the intersection of highway 310 and 312 both heavily traveled roads. Beartooth FADC
has been working with USDA personnel with the business to apply for a Value Added Producer Grant for
$250,000.00 to expand their direct to consumer beef business. Oswald Farms application has been
selected for funding these operating funds will help them grow their direct beef sales business and their
new retail store
Speedy and Flo’s Sweet Corn
Location- Hardin, MT
Contact-Flo Ramirez
Beartooth FADC worked with Tina Toyne of Big Horn County Economic Development to assist Flo
Ramirez and his wife. They started growing fresh produce and sweet corn for local sales over ten years ago
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on a one-and-a-half-acre garden plot. Their business has grown and they now raise 25 acres of sweet corn
and have a 4-acre garden, they sell all of their fresh produce at locations in Hardin, several in Billings, Joliet,
Miles City and Absarokee as well as in northern Wyoming. Beartooth FADC and Tina Toyne assisted them
on developing a GTA Marketing Development Assistance Grant for custom made bags for their fresh
produce that will have their logo and Facebook information for their customers. Beartooth FADC assisted
Flo in developing his application for the GTA program for the development of their greenhouse.
Greycliff Mill
Location- Big Timber MT
Contact- Daniel Seylor
Beartooth staff has been in communication with Greycliff mill in Big Timber to discuss funding sources for
their value added ag operation. The value added business mills local grains used in the breads that are
served at their restaurant and coffee shop, they plan to use local milk to make a line of cheeses and grow
sweet corn, beans, apples and berries which will be utilized to be sold fresh and in jams. Beartooth visited
with the business about using the RFSI funding to expand their food processing through purchasing
equipment for their food processing business.
Yellowstone Valley Farm
Contact-Reuben Stahl
Location-Laurel
Reuben Stahl has a family greenhouse business growing basil and selling to FSA and Sysco, he would like to
add another greenhouse to keep up with increased demand this last year. Beartooth staff visited
Yellowstone Valley Farms and discussed the Rural Energy for America Program for funding to improve the
energy efficiency of his greenhouse operations to lower the businesses energy bills. Beartooth RC&D
assisted Reuben with developing RFSI application and will assist when he is interested in a USDA REAP
application for his greenhouse expansion.
Rodi Farms
Location- Laurel, MT
Contact-Carah Ronan
Carah was referred to us to assist her in applying for RSFI funding to expand her business of fresh cut
flowers and some fresh vegetables she operates on her families grain farm near Laurel, MT.
J&D Meats
Contact- Jon Schneider
Location- Hardin, MT
Beartooth FADC was invited by Tina Toyne of Big Horn County Economic Development to visit with J&D
Meats a small meat processing operation that has a retail front selling fresh meats and lunches in Hardin.
The business was purchased in 2021 after years of operating as Buds Catering and has been refurbished. The
business is looking to continue to grow and is interested in the USDA RMAP micro entrepreneur funding
through our revolving loan funding.
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Undammed Distilling
Location-Billings, MT
Contact- Allen Hodges
Allen Hodges started Undammed Distilling in Billings approximately two years ago and utilizes Montana
ingredients in his spirits, he is looking to expand his business. Beartooth FADC met with him to di scuss the
Growth Through Ag funding opportunity for equipment. Beartooth worked with Allen to develop a pre
application for the GTA grant.
On Going Projects
Montana Prime Meats
Contact- Lamont Herman
Location- Big Horn County and Billings, MT
Beartooth FADC assisted Montana Prime Meats with the development of a GTA grant in 2021 and have
continued to follow up with the business, they opened a retail outlet to sell their beef and lamb products
raised on the Herman Ranch in Big Horn County and it has developed a following. They ae now looking for
funding to expand their offerings to include fresh cuts of Beef and Lamb. Beartooth Staff visited their
business to discuss the potential use of the RMAP funding for their expansion project. Beartooth FADC
continues to work with Lamont on his business expansion.
Primitive Meats
Contact- Kelsey Grice
Location- Worden, MT
Kelsey Grice and her husband are looking for funding assistance through the GTA grant to help them with
construction costs and equipment for their start up meat processing business. This Business also applied
for an ARPA Value Added Ag Grant, Beartooth FADC put the business in contact with a local engineering
firm to discuss the plans for their plant. Their application was approved for $150,000.00, Beartooth FADC
has been in contact with the owners have begun construction.
Becky’s Berries- Absarokee, MT
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Page 16
Contact- Becky Stahl
Location-Absarokee
Beartooth FADC has been assisting Becky with locating specialized assistance in recipe development for a
new line of products she is currently working on. They have now completed their recipes for a line of
mustards and we are now helping them on developing a process for filling and packaging the products.
Beartooth FADC has worked with MMEC to get resources to visit Becky to talk about the equipment and
design for implementing this new process. Beartooth met Becky and Tim at the business with Nan Knight
and Lane Gobbs to discuss their new line products and what equipment they will need to develop an efficient
process.
Beartooth FADC Outreach
Alaskan Seafood Guys- Billings,, MT
Ranch House Meats – Billings, MT
Initial Contact
Monette Farms- Big Horn County
Stovall Ranch- Yellowstone County
1/18/2024
Economic Development/ CRDC / EDA PPG / EPA Brownfields
o BSTF- this will be changed to the Montana Growth Fund; on January 16th, a discussion and
learning session will be facilitated
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Page 17
Stillwater County Industrial/Business Park Feasibility Study – completed the closeout
process with MT DOC on 1/10/2024
o USDA BHC RCDI Grant – training continues with Tina Toyne
o USDA RLACF RCDI Grant- training continues with Angela Getchell
o Myrna will be more involved with the RCDI grants and training going forward
o Next reporting period will include:
-USDA RCDI Quarter reports (2)- will be submitted in January 2024
-CRDC Quarter report- will be submitted in January 2024
-CRDC Annual Recertification- still waiting on instructions from MT DOC
-EDA Partnership Planning Grant report- questionnaire completed with Myrna
o Helping Hands Food Bank in Hardin- waiting on Latysha at DEQ to contact food bank on
release status and next steps with PetroFund
o Former Rocky Fork Inn site in Red Lodge- Structural assessment occurred on August 30th; the
inspection occurred on the 31st; the Phase I assessment was conducted on September 8th
o Community-Wide Brownfield Assessment Grant- the RFP was released for hiring QEPs
(contractors); need to conduct a brownfields stakeholder group
o DEQ Brownfields Collaboration- BRCD has been selected to be a sub recipient to one of
DEQ’s new capacity building grants; the scope of work will align with our community-wide
brownfields assessment grant
o RCAC Building Rural Economies (BRE) Program- recently awarded this three-year grant as a
sub recipient; what to expect from this partnership:
Identify and implement comprehensive community economic development
activities;
Bridge project planning and implementation to create momentum needed for
success;
Train and support local entrepreneurs working to start or expand businesses; and
Access capital for economic development and entrepreneurship.
o DOC-Business Attraction – still working on project quartz and black diamond
o MEDA Spring Conference in Red Lodge- April 24-25th at the Roosevelt Center
o Trainings in the upcoming year- work with SBDC on training collaborations
o Additional Clients that were worked with (Nov 2023-Jan 2024):
Roman Theater
City of Red Lodge
Sandstone School
Frequently Used Acronyms
BIA – Bureau of Indian Affairs
BLM – Bureau of Land Management
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Page 18
BRCD – Beartooth RC&D
BSEDA – Big Sky Economic Development Association
BSTF – Big Sky Trust Fund
CDBG – Community Development Block Grant
CRDC – Certified Regional Development Corporation
CEDS – Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy
CTEP – Community Transportation Endowment Program
EDA – Economic Development Administration
EDD – Economic Development District
FADC- Food and Ag Development Center
GIS – Geographic Information Systems
GPS – Global Positioning System
GTA- Growth Through Ag Grant and Loan
HOME – Montana Home Investment Partnerships Program
HUD – US Department of Housing and Urban Development
IRP – Intermediary Relending Program
LESA – Land Evaluation Site Assessment
MBOI – Montana Board of Investments
MDOA- Montana Department of Agriculture
MDOC – Montana Department of Commerce
MDOL – Montana Dept. of Labor
MDOT – Montana Dept. of Transportation
MDFWP – Montana Dept. of Fish, Wildlife and Parks
MEDA – Montana Economic Developers Association
MMEC- Montana Manufacturing Extension Center
NADO – National Association of Development Organizations
NHS – Neighborhood Housing Services
NRCS – Natural Resource Conservation Service
RBDG – Rural Business Development Grant
RC&D – Resource Conservation & Development
RCDI – Rural Community Development Initiative
RD – Rural Development (a division of USDA)
RCPP- Regional Conservation Partnership Program
REAP- Rural Energy for America Program
RLF – Revolving Loan Fund
RMAP- Rural Micro entrepreneur Assistance Program
SBA – Small Business Administration
SBDC – Small business Development Center
SSBCI- State Small Business Credit Initiative
TIFD – Tax Increment Finance District
TSEP - Treasure State Endowment Program
USDA – United States Department of Agriculture
USFS – United States Forest Service
LSL- Lead Service Lines
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File Attachments for Item:
7. Council Workshop Minutes of January 2, 2024.
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8. Revised Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of December 26, 2023.
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9. Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of January 9, 2024.
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10. Tree Board Minutes of January 4, 2024.
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11. Library Board Minutes of December 12, 2023.
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12. Emergency Services Committee Minutes of November 27, 2023.
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13. Public Works Committee Minutes of December 18, 2023.
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15. Appointment of Emelie Eaton to the Public Works Committee.
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16. Resolution R24-04: A Resolution Of The City Council To Adopt An Official Schedule Of
Fees And Charges For The City Of Laurel And Repealing All Previous Resolutions That Set
Fees Or Charges That Conflict With The Schedule Attached Hereto Upon Its Effective Date.
122
R24-04 Adopt Schedule of Fees and Charges
RESOLUTION NO. R24-04
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL TO ADOPT AN OFFICIAL SCHEDULE
OF FEES AND CHARGES FOR THE CITY OF LAUREL AND REPEALING ALL
PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS THAT SET FEES OR CHARGES THAT CONFLICT
WITH THE SCHEDULE ATTACHED HERETO UPON ITS EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the Laurel Municipal Code requires the City Council to review, modify,
and/or update its fees and charges on an annual basis through further Resolution of the City
Council;
WHEREAS, City Staff prepared the attached Schedule of Fees and Charges,
incorporated herein, for the City Council’s consideration and adoption after public hearing
until further Resolution of the City Council;
WHEREAS, on the 9th day of January 2024, the City Council adopted Resolution No.
R24-02, a Resolution of Intent to adopt the updated Schedule of Fees and Charges and set a
public hearing for the 23rd day of January 2024; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on the 23rd day of January 2024, in order to
provide opportunity for public input prior to adoption of the updated Schedule of Fees and
Charges.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council that the attached
Schedule of Fees and Charges is reasonable and in the best interests of the City of Laurel; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council hereby
approves the Schedule of Fees and Charges attached hereto and incorporated by reference
herein.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 23rd day of January 2024 by
Council Member _____________________.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel, Montana on the
23rd day of January 2024.
APPROVED by the Mayor on the 23rd day of January 2024.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
123
R24-04 Adopt Schedule of Fees and Charges
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
124
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 1 of 15
CITY OF LAUREL
SCHEDULE OF FEES AND CHARGES
AS OF TUESDAY, January 23, 2024 / RESOLUTION NO. R24-04
Administrative, City Attorney, and Court Fees and Charges (except Library)
Item Fee
Returned Check $50.00
Document Photocopying
First three pages No Charge
Copies in excess of three pages per page $0.25
Discovery Fee
Fee for production of discovery documents – Flat fee for USB Drive $10.00
Additional Discovery Fee for Mailed Documents $10.00
Public Records Request/FOIA Request
Research City Records (Per Hour) $50.00
Research by Contracted Staff (Per Hour) $150.00-
$250.00
Research by City Attorney (Per Hour) $250.00
Dog License Fees and Renewals before April 1 (Must be renewed each year)
Spayed Female/Neutered Male $20.00
Un-spayed Female/Un-neutered Male $30.00
Dog License Renewals after April 1
Spayed Female/Neutered Male $30.00
Un-spayed Female/Un-neutered Male $40.00
Dog Kennel before April 1 (Must be renewed each year)
Non-Commercial $50.00
Commercial $75.00
Chicken License Fee – Flat Fee $25.00
Business License
General $100.00
Beer and/or Wine $400.00
Three Apartments $50.00
Four Apartments $60.00
Five or more Apartments $95.00
Pawn Shop $200.00
Utilities $400.00
Amusement Machines $100.00
Live Music $100.00
Junk $100.00
Liquor $500.00
Franchises $400.00
Sexually Oriented Business $750.00
125
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 2 of 15
Police Department Fees and Charges
Item Fee
Victims Report $10.00
Case Report $40.00
Case Report with Pictures $55.00
Vehicle Accident Report – Form Only $20.00
Vehicle Accident Report with Pictures $35.00
Audio Recording $75.00
Vehicle Impound – Per Day 1st Week $45.00
Vehicle Impound – Per Day after 1st Week $70.00
Dog Impound Fee – 1st in Calendar Year $35.00
Dog Impound Fee – Subsequent in Calendar Year $50.00
Dog Boarding Fee – 24 Hours After Notification – Per Day $100.00
Fingerprint Card $35.00
Subsequent Fingerprint Cards – Per Card $5.00
False Alarm – 3rd and Consecutive in Calendar Year $100.00
Library
Item Fee
Photocopy Fees – per page
Black & White $0.10
Color $0.20
Printer Fees – per page
Black and White $0.10
Color $0.20
Lost or Damaged Book Cost
Library Cards for Non-Residents No Charge
Interlibrary Loan Postage (per item not available via Courier – after 3) $5.00
Community Room
Use during library hours – for profit fee charged - per hour $3.00
Use after hours (per hour or any portion of an hour – for profit) $30.00
Refundable Cleaning Deposit $30.00
Library Card Replacement Fee (per card) $2.00
Fax Fees (per page)
Send No Charge
Receive $0.10
126
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 3 of 15
Fire Department Fees and Charges
Item Fee
Incident Report (NFIRS Copy) $50.00
Photograph Copies – Digital (USB) $35.00
Fire Suppression Fees Charged to Non-Resident or for Code or Ordinance
Violations
Base Rate for First Hour of Response for Working Fires, Rescue
Operations, Hazmat or Large-Scale Incidents
$2,000.00
Base Rate for First Hour of Service Assist Calls or Minor Calls $1,500.00
For Each Fireman – Per Hour $50.00
Base Rate for Assist and Investigate – Per Hour $250.00
Rates for Additional Hours after the First Hour of Any Response
(Time Calculated from Time of Response to Return to Service)
Engine #1 $500.00
Engine #2 $500.00
Engine #4 $500.00
Squad 5 $500.00
Tender #1 $225.00
Tender #2 $225.00
Support #1 $225.00
Command 1 $250.00
Command 2 $250.00
Brush #3 $250.00
Brush #4 $250.00
Brush #5 $250.00
Business Inspections within jurisdiction – Marketing Fireworks, Firecrackers,
and other Pyrotechnics
$250.00
False Fire Alarms – Per Calendar Year
First No Charge
Second $400.00
Third $800.00
Fourth+ $1,000.00
Fire Extinguisher Training
10 Students $250.00
Additional Per Student $25.00
127
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 4 of 15
Ambulance Service Fees
Item Fee
Paramedic Base Rate $1,900.00
Basic Base Rate $1,600.00
First Lift Assist in a Quarter No Charge
Second Lift Assist in a Quarter No Charge
Third Lift Assist (and all that follow) in a Quarter $25.00
EMT Class (Plus the cost of books and testing) $600.00
Advanced EMT Class (Plus the cost of books and testing) $200.00
Code Definition Charge
A0425 Ambulance Mileage (per loaded mile) $20.00
A0428 Transport, BLS non-emergent $850.00
Out of District Fee $150.00
A0429 Transport, BLS emergent $1,200.00
Out of District Fee $150.00
A0426 Transport, ALS non-emergent $1,000.00
Out of District Fee $150.00
A0427 Transport, ALS emergent $1,400.00
Out of District Fee $150.00
A0433 Transport, ALS 2 emergent $1,600.00
Out of District Fee $150.00
A0434 Specialty Care Transport $2,000.00
A0424 Extra Ambulance Attendant $100.00
A0382 BLS routine supplies $100.00
A0398 ALS routine supplies $200.00
A0384 Defibrillation supplies $160.00
A0394 IV Supplies $75.00
A0396 Intubation $175.00
A0422 Oxygen $75.00
A0420 Waiting time (with patient) $75.00
Stand by Rate QRU (1 person) (per hour) $75.00
Stand by Rate Ambulance (2 person) (per hour) $100.00
TNT1 Simple response (lift assist, etc.) $25.00
TNT2 Response, treatment using BLS Supplies / no transport $50.00
TNT3 Response, treatment using ALS or ALS2 Supplies / no transport $100.00
Glucagon $300.00
Patient Care Report Copy (HIPAA Compliant) $25.00
128
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 5 of 15
Water Rates & Charges
Item Fee
See Current Resolution (Resolution No. R11-110)
System Development Fees (Based on Line Size) - Water
¾ Inch $2,500.00
1 Inch $4,475.00
1 ¼ Inch $6,950.00
1 ½ Inch $10,000.00
2 Inch $17,850.00
3 Inch $40,000.00
4 Inch $71,425.00
Connections to the water system with meters larger than 4 inches or when the
unique usage characteristics of a large water user may require, the City will
determine the system development fee at that time if the City can provide the
services as requested.
Curb Box Repair Insurance Fee – Per Month Per Water Account $1.00
Utility Hook-Up Fees
Water Tapping – Two Inches or Less $250.00
Water Tapping – Greater Than Two Inches Fee x 1.25
Labor/Operator Rate Per Hour $60.00
Heavy Equipment Rate Per Hour $100.00
Other Fees for Repairs, etc.
Frozen or Damaged Meter
Replacement Meter or Meter Parts Cost + 25%
Plus the Labor/Operator Rate Per Hour $60.00
OR Overtime Hourly Rate if Called Out After Hours $90.00
Hydrant Meter Rental – Per Month (Prorated Plus the Total Usage) $476.00
Utility Billing Fees and Deposits
New Accounts or Re-Establishing an Account $35.00
Restoring Service to a Delinquent Account $75.00
Deposit for New Meter Accounts, No Service in Previous Year $170.00
Charge for Check Returned by Bank as Unpaid $50.00
129
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 6 of 15
Wastewater Rates & Charges
Item Fee
See Current Resolution (Resolution No. R11-110)
Septic Dump Fee - $60.00
Minimum
up to 1,000
Gallons plus
$0.06 per
gallon
thereafter
Septic Clean-up Fee for Spillage (Resolution No. R15-96) $40.00
System Development Fees (Based on Line Size) – Sewer
Residential – Each Housing Unit (Duplex=2 units; Triplex=3 units;
Four-plex=4 units; etc.
$2,700.00
Commercial – Based on Water Meter Size; Includes Subdivision for
Rent or Lease
¾ Inch $2,700.00
1 Inch $4,833.00
1 ¼ Inch $7,506.00
1 ½ Inch $10,800.00
2 Inch $19,278.00
3 Inch $43,200.00
4 Inch $77,139.00
Connections to the wastewater system with water meters larger than 4 inches or
when the unique usage characteristics of a large water user may require, the City
will determine the system development fee at that time if the City can provide
the service as requested.
130
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 7 of 15
Solid Waste Fees and Charges
Item Fee
See Current Resolution (Resolution No. R22-77)
Multiple Containers – Non-Residential users who use multiple containers shall
be assigned a volume of use variable for each container used.
Roll Off Container Set/Reset $30.00
Roll Off Container Haul $150.00
Roll Off Container Cost per Ton Current Billings
Landfill Rates
Replacement Waste Container – Due to Negligence Cost x 1.50
All Tires – Per Tire $5.00
Container Site Waste – Business and Non-City Residents and/or City Residents
that do not use City Solid Waste Services
Minimum $10.00
Per Additional Cubic Yard $10.00
Non-Residential Garbage Disposal Rate Schedule – See Current Resolution
(R22-77)
Park and Recreation Fees and Charges
Item Fee
Shelter Reservation $50.00
Special Event Application Fee $35.00
Special Event in Parks
One Day Closure $100.00
Two Day Closure $150.00
Youth Activities Fee can be
waived by
the Mayor
Garbage Cans for Special Events – Per 100 Gallons – Prepaid Residential
Garbage
Rate
Special Event Clean-Up Fee – Per Hour/Per Employee $45.00
Riverside Park Camping Fees
Tent Space (per night) $20.00
Back-in Space (per night) $25.00
Pull Through Space (per night) $30.00
Riverside Park Building Reservation Fee
Small Meeting Room $50.00
Large Meeting Room W/ Kitchen $400.00
Damage/Cleaning Deposit – Refundable Upon Inspection $400.00
Monthly Meetings in Small Room W/ Use of Large Room Once – Per
Year
$750.00
131
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 8 of 15
Cemetery Fees
Item Fee
Please Note: Cemetery Caretaker must be present at all interments.
Please Note: Burials are not permitted on Sundays, holidays, or Saturday
afternoons.
City Residents
Full Grave $550.00
Baby Grave $400.00
Non-Residents
Full Grave $700.00
Baby Grave $450.00
Opening and Closing
Full Grave $380.00
Full Grave on Saturday mornings $480.00
Baby Grave $300.00
Baby Grave on Saturday mornings $350.00
Cremation $250.00
Cremation on Saturday mornings $300.00
Two Cremations on single plot $325.00
Two Cremations on single plot on Saturday mornings $400.00
Set Cremation Urn at existing Headstones $40.00
Private Sale of any plot – Transfer Processing Fee $45.00
Disinterment Fee for full burial $400.00
Disinterment Fee for cremains $325.00
132
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 9 of 15
Planning Item
Item Fee Notes
Annexation into the City of Laurel (80 acres or less) $ 750.00 + $35.00/acre
Annexation into the City of Laurel (81 acres or more) $ 750.00 + $55.00/acre
Cash in Lieu of Parking spaces outside of the Central
Business District $ 850.00 + $25.00/space
Conditional Use Application (Commercial) $ 1,350.00
Conditional Use Application (Residential) $ 850.00
Floodplain Permit $ 300.00
Home Occupations $ 200.00
Outdoor Seating $ 300.00 +$25.00/day
Planned Unit Development Concept Plan $ 850.00
Planned Unit Development Preliminary Plan $ 1,350.00 +$50.00/acre
Planned Unit Development Final Plan $ 1,600.00 +$25.00/acre
Review of Buildings for Lease or Rent $ 350.00
Site Plan Review Fee (Commercial) $ 600.00
Site Plan Review Fee (Residential) $ 350.00
Special Review (Commercial) $ 1,350.00
Special Review (Residential) $ 850.00
Special Review Applications resubmitted within one
year of a withdrawal request made after the legal
advertising
$ 600.00
Staff Research $ 50.00 Per Hour
Temporary Use Permit $ 450.00
Vacation of Street or Alley $ 350.00
Variance (Commercial) $ 1,350.00
Variance (Residential) $ 850.00
Variance Applications resubmitted within one year of
a withdrawal request made after the legal advertising $ 850.00
Zone Change $ 1,350.00 + $45.00/acre
Zone Change Applications resubmitted within 1 year
of a withdrawal request made after the legal
advertising
$ 850.00
Zoning Compliance/Verification Letter $ 200.00
Zoning Map Amendment $ 1,750.00 + $45.00/acre
133
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 10 of 15
Subdivision
Item Fee Notes
Corrections or Adjustments to Plats, Conditions, and
Supporting Documents after Preliminary Plat
Approval: $ 350.00
Corrections or Vacations of Recorded Final
Subdivision Plats or Supporting Documents $ 350.00
Exempt Subdivision $ 400.00
Final Plat (Minor) $ 1,350.00
Final Plat, Major Subdivision, 6 to 40 lots $ 1,750.00
Final Plat, Major Subdivision, 41 to 200 lots $ 2,500.00
Final Plat, Major Subdivision, Over 200 lots $ 3,500.00
Major Adjustments for Minor Subdivisions $ 750.00
Major Adjustments for Major Subdivision, 6 to 40
lots $ 1,350.00
Major Adjustments for Major Subdivision, 41 to 200
lots $ 1,850.00
Major Adjustments for Major Subdivision, Over 200
lots $ 2,350.00
Minor Adjustments, Major and Minor Subdivisions $ 350.00
Pre-Application Meeting $ 750.00 + $25.00/lot
Preliminary Plat (Minor) $ 1,950.00 + $50.00/lot
Preliminary Plat, Major Subdivision, 6 to 40 lots $ 2,250.00 + $25.00/lot
Preliminary Plat, Major Subdivision, 41 to 200 lots $ 2,950.00 + $25.00/lot
Preliminary Plat, Major Subdivision, Over 200 lots $ 3,750.00 + $25.00/lot
Subdivision for Rent or Lease, Final Plan $ 1,500.00
Subdivision for Rent or Lease, Preliminary Plan $ 1,250.00
All Appeals the same as the Application Fee
134
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 11 of 15
Building Permit
Item Fee Notes
Additional Plan Review required by changes,
additions or revisions to plans (minimum charge - one
half hour) $ 100.00
Per Hour
Additional Re-Inspection Fee $ 100.00
Building Permit - See Appx. A
Deck Permit $25.00 Per sq.ft.
Demolition Permit – Residential $500.00
Demolition Permit – Commercial - See Appx. A
Encroachment Permit $ 150.00
Fence Permit $ 100.00
Fire Inspection (includes one follow-up inspection) $ 100.00
Mobile Home Blocking Permit (includes two-meter
inspections) $ 100.00
Moving Permit $ 250.00
Photocopies (over 3 pages) $ 0.25 Per Page
Plan Review (Commercial) -
65% of
Building
Permit Fee
Plan Review (Residential) -
50% of
Building
Permit Fee
Plotter Photocopies $ 10.00 Per page
Right-of-way Excavation Permit (Gravel) $ 150.00
Right-of-way Excavation Permit (Paved) $ 200.00
Roofing Permit (Commercial) $ 250.00
Roofing Permit (Residential) $ 150.00
Siding Installation Permit $ 100.00
Sidewalk, Driveway Approach, Curb & Gutter Permit $ 150.00
Sign Permit $1.00 Per sq.ft.
Sign Plan Review Fees $2.00 Per sq.ft.
Sign – Face Change $30.00 Per face
Solar Permit Residential $250.00
Solar Permit Commercial $300.00
Temporary Sign Permit $ 75.00
Temporary Structure Permit $ 150.00
Window and/or Door Replacement Installation
Permit – No Structural Modifications $ 75.00
Per structure
or building
135
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 12 of 15
APPENDIX A: BUILDING PERMIT FEES
Building permit fees are determined by the total valuation of the project. For new construction
and additions, the total valuation is determined by the most recent valuation data published by
the International Code Council. For remodel projects, the total valuation is based on the
documented project cost. (RPR is Residential Plan Review, CPR is Commercial Plan Review)
Valuation Building
Permit
Residential Plan
Review
Commercial Plan
Review
From To
$ 1.00 $ 500.00 $ 36.00 $ 18.00 $ 23.40
$ 501.00 $ 600.00 $ 40.50 $ 20.25 $ 26.33
$ 601.00 $ 700.00 $ 45.00 $ 22.50 $ 29.25
$ 701.00 $ 800.00 $ 49.50 $ 24.75 $ 32.18
$ 801.00 $ 900.00 $ 54.00 $ 27.00 $ 35.10
$ 901.00 $ 1,000.00 $ 58.50 $ 29.25 $ 38.03
$ 1,001.00 $ 1,100.00 $ 63.00 $ 31.50 $ 40.95
$ 1,101.00 $ 1,200.00 $ 67.50 $ 33.75 $ 43.88
$ 1,201.00 $ 1,300.00 $ 72.00 $ 36.00 $ 46.80
$ 1,301.00 $ 1,400.00 $ 76.50 $ 38.25 $ 49.73
$ 1,401.00 $ 1,500.00 $ 81.00 $ 40.50 $ 52.65
$ 1,501.00 $ 1,600.00 $ 85.50 $ 42.75 $ 55.58
$ 1,601.00 $ 1,700.00 $ 90.00 $ 45.00 $ 58.50
$ 1,701.00 $ 1,800.00 $ 94.50 $ 47.25 $ 61.43
$ 1,801.00 $ 1,900.00 $ 99.00 $ 49.50 $ 64.35
$ 1,901.00 $ 2,000.00 $ 103.50 $ 51.75 $ 67.28
$ 2,001.00 $ 3,000.00 $ 125.50 $ 62.25 $ 80.93
$ 3,001.00 $ 4,000.00 $ 145.50 $ 72.75 $ 94.58
$ 4,001.00 $ 5,000.00 $ 166.50 $ 83.25 $ 108.23
$ 5,001.00 $ 6,000.00 $ 187.50 $ 93.75 $ 121.88
$ 6,001.00 $ 7,000.00 $ 208.50 $ 104.25 $ 135.53
$ 7,001.00 $ 8,000.00 $ 229.50 $ 114.75 $ 149.18
$ 8,001.00 $ 9,000.00 $ 250.50 $ 125.25 $ 162.83
$ 9,001.00 $ 10,000.00 $ 271.50 $ 135.75 $ 176.48
$ 10,001.00 $ 11,000.00 $ 292.50 $ 146.25 $ 190.13
$ 11,001.00 $ 12,000.00 $ 313.50 $ 156.75 $ 203.78
$ 12,001.00 $ 13,000.00 $ 335.50 $ 167.25 $ 217.43
$ 13,001.00 $ 14,000.00 $ 355.50 $ 177.75 $ 231.08
$ 14,001.00 $ 15,000.00 $ 376.50 $ 188.25 $ 244.73
$ 15,001.00 $ 16,000.00 $ 397.50 $ 198.75 $ 258.38
$ 16,001.00 $ 17,000.00 $ 418.50 $ 209.25 $ 272.03
$ 17,001.00 $ 18,000.00 $ 439.50 $ 219.75 $ 285.68
136
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 13 of 15
$ 18,001.00 $ 19,000.00 $ 460.50 $ 230.25 $ 299.33
$ 19,001.00 $ 20,000.00 $ 481.50 $ 240.75 $ 312.98
$ 20,001.00 $ 21,000.00 $ 502.50 $ 251.25 $ 326.63
$ 21,001.00 $ 22,000.00 $ 523.50 $ 261.75 $ 340.28
$ 22,001.00 $ 23,000.00 $ 544.50 $ 272.25 $ 353.93
$ 23,001.00 $ 24,000.00 $ 565.50 $ 282.75 $ 367.58
$ 24,001.00 $ 25,000.00 $ 586.50 $ 293.25 $ 381.23
$ 25,001.00 $ 26,000.00 $ 601.50 $ 300.75 $ 390.98
$ 26,001.00 $ 27,000.00 $ 616.50 $ 308.25 $ 400.73
$ 27,001.00 $ 28,000.00 $ 633.00 $ 316.50 $ 411.45
$ 28,001.00 $ 29,000.00 $ 648.00 $ 324.00 $ 421.20
$ 29,001.00 $ 30,000.00 $ 663.00 $ 331.50 $ 430.95
$ 30,001.00 $ 31,000.00 $ 678.00 $ 339.00 $ 440.70
$ 31,001.00 $ 32,000.00 $ 693.00 $ 346.50 $ 450.45
$ 32,001.00 $ 33,000.00 $ 708.00 $ 354.00 $ 460.20
$ 33,001.00 $ 34,000.00 $ 723.00 $ 361.50 $ 469.95
$ 34,001.00 $ 35,000.00 $ 738.00 $ 369.00 $ 479.70
$ 35,001.00 $ 36,000.00 $ 753.00 $ 376.50 $ 489.45
$ 36,001.00 $ 37,000.00 $ 768.00 $ 384.00 $ 499.20
$ 37,001.00 $ 38,000.00 $ 784.50 $ 392.25 $ 509.93
$ 38,001.00 $ 39,000.00 $ 799.50 $ 399.75 $ 519.68
$ 39,001.00 $ 40,000.00 $ 814.50 $ 407.25 $ 529.43
$ 40,001.00 $ 41,000.00 $ 829.50 $ 414.75 $ 539.18
$ 41,001.00 $ 42,000.00 $ 844.50 $ 422.25 $ 548.93
$ 42,001.00 $ 43,000.00 $ 859.50 $ 429.75 $ 558.68
$ 43,001.00 $ 44,000.00 $ 874.50 $ 437.25 $ 568.43
$ 44,001.00 $ 45,000.00 $ 889.50 $ 444.75 $ 578.18
$ 45,001.00 $ 46,000.00 $ 904.50 $ 452.25 $ 587.93
$ 46,001.00 $ 47,000.00 $ 919.50 $ 459.75 $ 597.68
$ 47,001.00 $ 48,000.00 $ 934.50 $ 467.25 $ 607.43
$ 48,001.00 $ 49,000.00 $ 949.50 $ 474.75 $ 617.18
$ 49,001.00 $ 50,000.00 $ 964.50 $ 482.25 $ 626.93
$ 50,001.00 $ 51,000.00 $ 976.50 $ 488.25 $ 634.73
$ 51,001.00 $ 52,000.00 $ 987.00 $ 493.50 $ 641.55
$ 52,001.00 $ 53,000.00 $ 997.50 $ 498.75 $ 648.38
$ 53,001.00 $ 54,000.00 $ 1,008.00 $ 504.00 $ 655.20
$ 54,001.00 $ 55,000.00 $ 1,018.50 $ 509.25 $ 662.03
$ 55,001.00 $ 56,000.00 $ 1,029.00 $ 514.50 $ 668.85
$ 56,001.00 $ 57,000.00 $ 1,039.50 $ 519.75 $ 675.68
$ 57,001.00 $ 58,000.00 $ 1,050.00 $ 525.00 $ 682.50
$ 58,001.00 $ 59,000.00 $ 1,060.50 $ 530.25 $ 689.33
137
FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 14 of 15
$ 59,001.00 $ 60,000.00 $ 1,071.00 $ 535.50 $ 696.15
$ 60,001.00 $ 61,000.00 $ 1,081.50 $ 540.75 $ 702.98
$ 61,001.00 $ 62,000.00 $ 1,092.00 $ 546.00 $ 709.80
$ 62,001.00 $ 63,000.00 $ 1,102.50 $ 551.25 $ 716.63
$ 63,001.00 $ 64,000.00 $ 1,113.00 $ 556.50 $ 723.45
$ 64,001.00 $ 65,000.00 $ 1,123.50 $ 561.75 $ 730.28
$ 65,001.00 $ 66,000.00 $ 1,134.00 $ 567.00 $ 737.10
$ 66,001.00 $ 67,000.00 $ 1,144.50 $ 572.25 $ 743.93
$ 67,001.00 $ 68,000.00 $ 1,155.00 $ 577.50 $ 750.75
$ 68,001.00 $ 69,000.00 $ 1,165.50 $ 582.75 $ 757.58
$ 69,001.00 $ 70,000.00 $ 1,176.00 $ 588.00 $ 764.40
$ 70,001.00 $ 71,000.00 $ 1,186.50 $ 593.25 $ 771.23
$ 71,001.00 $ 72,000.00 $ 1,197.00 $ 598.50 $ 778.05
$ 72,001.00 $ 73,000.00 $ 1,207.50 $ 603.75 $ 784.88
$ 73,001.00 $ 74,000.00 $ 1,218.00 $ 609.00 $ 791.70
$ 74,001.00 $ 75,000.00 $ 1,228.50 $ 614.25 $ 798.53
$ 75,001.00 $ 76,000.00 $ 1,239.00 $ 619.50 $ 805.35
$ 76,001.00 $ 77,000.00 $ 1,249.50 $ 624.75 $ 812.18
$ 77,001.00 $ 78,000.00 $ 1,260.00 $ 630.00 $ 819.00
$ 78,001.00 $ 79,000.00 $ 1,270.50 $ 635.25 $ 825.83
$ 79,001.00 $ 80,000.00 $ 1,281.00 $ 640.50 $ 832.65
$ 80,001.00 $ 81,000.00 $ 1,291.50 $ 645.75 $ 839.48
$ 81,001.00 $ 82,000.00 $ 1,302.00 $ 651.00 $ 846.30
$ 82,001.00 $ 83,000.00 $ 1,312.50 $ 656.25 $ 853.13
$ 83,001.00 $ 84,000.00 $ 1,323.00 $ 661.50 $ 859.95
$ 84,001.00 $ 85,000.00 $ 1,333.50 $ 666.75 $ 866.78
$ 85,001.00 $ 86,000.00 $ 1,344.00 $ 672.00 $ 873.60
$ 86,001.00 $ 87,000.00 $ 1,354.50 $ 677.25 $ 880.43
$ 87,001.00 $ 88,000.00 $ 1,365.00 $ 682.50 $ 887.25
$ 88,001.00 $ 89,000.00 $ 1,375.50 $ 687.75 $ 894.08
$ 89,001.00 $ 90,000.00 $ 1,386.00 $ 693.00 $ 900.90
$ 90,001.00 $ 91,000.00 $ 1,396.50 $ 698.25 $ 907.73
$ 91,001.00 $ 92,000.00 $ 1,407.00 $ 703.50 $ 914.55
$ 92,001.00 $ 93,000.00 $ 1,417.50 $ 708.75 $ 921.38
$ 93,001.00 $ 94,000.00 $ 1,428.00 $ 714.00 $ 928.20
$ 94,001.00 $ 95,000.00 $ 1,438.50 $ 719.25 $ 935.03
$ 95,001.00 $ 96,000.00 $ 1,449.00 $ 724.50 $ 941.85
$ 96,001.00 $ 97,000.00 $ 1,459.50 $ 729.75 $ 948.68
$ 97,001.00 $ 98,000.00 $ 1,470.00 $ 735.00 $ 955.50
$ 98,001.00 $ 99,000.00 $ 1,480.50 $ 740.25 $ 962.33
$ 99,001.00 $ 100,000.00 $ 1,491.00 $ 745.50 $ 969.15
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FY 24 Schedule of Fees and Charges
January 23, 2024
Resolution No. R24-04
Page 15 of 15
$100,001 - $500,000: $1491.00 for the first $100,000, plus $6.40 for each additional
$1,000 or portion thereof.
$500,001 - $1,000,000: $4,051.00 for the first $500,000 plus $5.47 for each additional
$1,000 or portion thereof.
$1,000,000 and up: $6,239.00 for the first $1,000,000 plus $4.58 for each additional
$1,000 or portion thereof.
Residential Plan Review = 50% of Permit Fee
Commercial Plan Review = 65% of Permit Fee
If work has started prior to issuance of a permit, the Building Permit Fee will double.
Basements
o Finished - $50 per sq.ft.
o Unfinished – refer to the most recent ICC Building Valuation Table
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File Attachments for Item:
17. Resolution R24-05: Resolution Of The City Council Calling For An Election On The
Question Of Conducting A Local Government Review And Establishing A Study Commission.
140
R24-05 Election on Local Governmental Review
RESOLUTION NO. R24-05
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL CALLING FOR AN ELECTION ON THE
QUESTION OF CONDUCTING A LOCAL GOVERNMENT REVIEW AND
ESTABLISHING A STUDY COMMISSION.
WHEREAS, Section 9, Article XI of the Constitution of the State of Montana requires
that each unit of local government shall conduct an election once every ten years to determine
whether the local government will undertake a local government review procedure; and
WHEREAS, 7-3-173(2) M.C.A. requires that the governing body shall call for an
election, to be held on the primary election date, on the question of conducting a local
government review and establishing a study commission; and
WHEREAS, 7-3-184 M.C.A. provides for the support of the study commission, for each
fiscal year that the study commission is in existence, and the City shall appropriate Thirty-One
Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($31,000) to fund the study, and the local government may
levy mills in excess of all other mill levies authorized by law to fund the appropriation for the
support of the study commission. Upon termination of the study commission, unexpended
money reverts to the general fund of the City of Laurel.
WHEREAS, the Laurel City Council is the governing body of the City of Laurel and
therefore must call for the election required by Section 9, Article XI of the Montana
Constitution and 7-3-173 M.C.A. on the question of conducting a local government review and
establishing a study commission.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF LAUREL, MONTANA:
1. The City Council of Laurel hereby calls for an election on the question of conducting
a local government review and electing a study commission to be held at the primary
election on June 4, 2024.
2. If the voters decide in favor of conducting a local government review, a study
commission comprised of three (3) members shall be elected at the general election of
November 5, 2024.
3. Pursuant to 7-3-175, M.C.A. the question of conducting a local government review
shall be submitted to the electors in substantially the following form:
Vote for one:
[ ] FOR the review of the government of the City of Laurel and the establishment and
funding, not to exceed Thirty-One Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($31,000), of a local
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R24-05 Election on Local Governmental Review
government study commission consisting of three (3) members to examine the
government of the City of Laurel and submit recommendations on the government.
[ ] AGAINST the review of the government of the City of Laurel and the establishment
and funding, not to exceed Thirty-One Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($31,000), of a
local government study commission consisting of three (3) members to examine the
government of the City of Laurel and submit recommendations on the government.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 23rd day of January, 2024 by
Council Member _____________________.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel, Montana on the
23rd day of January, 2024.
APPROVED by the Mayor on the 23rd day of January, 2024.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
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Memorandum Re Local Government Study and Related Election
TO: City of Laurel City Council and Mayor
CC: City of Laurel Clerk-Treasurer/City Council Administrative Assistant
FROM: Michele Braukmann, Laurel Civil City Attorney
DATE: 2023.12.27
RE: Information Re Local Government Study and Related Election
This Memorandum serves to provide information regarding the required Local Government
Study that has to be put on the 2024 Ballot for consideration by the electorate in the City of Laurel.
What is this about, and why is it required?
Pursuant to Article XI, section 9 of the Montana Constitution and section 7-3-173, MCA, local
governments, including cities and counties, must place the local government review question on the
ballot if 10 years have elapsed since voters have voted on the question. In June of 2014, the local
government entities of Yellowstone County had the question on the ballot. Therefore, it is once again
time to adopt a resolution to place on the June primary ballot the question of establishing a study
commission that includes the number of commissioners and the amount of funding. See 7-3-173, 7-
3-174, 7-3-175, MCA.
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Pursuant to the Secretary of State’s guidance, the deadline to call for the local government
review is on or before March 11, 2024 (See 7-3-173, MCA). The following is the legal information
related to the study commissions and the requirement to place this on the ballot every ten years.
7-3-173. Establishment of study commissions. (1) A study commission may
be established by an affirmative vote of the people. An election on the question of
conducting a local government review and establishing a study commission must be
held if:
(a) the governing body of the local government unit calls for an election by
resolution;
(b) a petition signed by at least 15% of the electors of the local government
calling for an election is submitted to the governing body; or
(c) 10 years have elapsed since the electors voted on the question of
conducting a local government review and establishing a study commission.
(2) The governing body shall call for an election on the question of
conducting a local government review and establishing a study commission, as
required by Article XI, section 9(2), of the Montana constitution, within 1 year after
the 10-year period referred to in subsection (1)(c).
7-3-174. Election dates and procedures. (1) An election on the question of
establishing a study commission under 7-3-173 must be held in conjunction with a
primary election held on the date established in 13-1-107.
(2) An election of study commission members under 7-3-176 must be held
in conjunction with a general election held on the date established in 13-1-104.
(3) The elections must be counted, canvassed, and returned as provided in
Title 13 for general elections.
(4) The election administrator shall report the results of an election
conducted under 7-3-171 through 7-3-193 to the secretary of state within 15 days of
the date the election results become official.
Article XI, Section 9. Voter review of local government. (1) The legislature
shall, within four years of the ratification of this constitution, provide procedures
requiring each local government unit or combination of units to review its structure
and submit one alternative form of government to the qualified electors at the next
general or special election.
(2) The legislature shall require an election in each local government to
determine whether a local government will undertake a review procedure once every
ten years after the first election. Approval by a majority of those voting in the decennial
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general election on the question of undertaking a local government review is necessary
to mandate the election of a local government study commission. Study commission
members shall be elected during any regularly scheduled election in local governments
mandating their election.
7-3-175. Ballot form and question. The question of conducting a local government
review and establishing a study commission must be submitted to the electors in
substantially the following form:
Vote for one:
[ ] FOR the review of the government of (insert name of local government)
and the establishment and funding, not to exceed (insert dollar or mill amount), of a
local government study commission consisting of (insert number of members)
members to examine the government of (insert name of local government) and submit
recommendations on the government.
[ ] AGAINST the review of the government of (insert name of local
government) and the establishment and funding, not to exceed (insert dollar or mill
amount), of a local government study commission consisting of (insert number of
members) members to examine the government of (insert name of local government)
and submit recommendations on the government.
How do we determine the budget for the Study and Commission requirements?
It is up to City Council to determine the budget, but it should be based off a recommendation
made by City Staff. The following is the information I have received in communications with the
Local Government Center and the Elections Office in addressing how City Council should budget
this Election.
Budget Framework: See attached document (2024 VR sample budget.pdf). City
Staff recommends a budget consistent with the mid-tier City size (less than 10k in
population).
Number of Study Commissioners: This is addressed in 7-3-177(1), MCA where
it states, “the study commission shall consist of three members unless the local
governing body by resolution declares that a larger number shall be elected”. During
the 2016-18 voter review cycle, 38 municipalities elected to have a study commission.
Of the 38 municipalities, 34 chose to have 3 study commissioners and 4 cities chose
to have 5 study commissioners. The communities who chose 5 commissioners were
Conrad, Dillon, Hot Springs, and Polson. City Staff recommends 3 Commissioners,
if the City of Laurel elects to have a study commission.
Consulting Support: The MSU Local Government Center is planning to provide as
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much support as possible given their Center size and the number of cities and counties
participating in the voter review. They will focus their efforts on providing training
and technical support to study commissioners and on a limited basis provided
education and context to the electorate. In addition to in person support, they are
planning to develop quality online resources for both study commissioners and the
public to support the review. The League may also be available for limited support
and other State agencies. There may also be other resources around the state that can
aid the study commission with facilitating public engagement around proposed
changes.
I am attaching a sample budget that was proposed by the MSU Local Government Center. I
recommend a budget consistent with what other municipalities our size are being recommended.
What are the next steps?
By mid-February 2024, a Resolution needs to be placed in front of City Council to approve
the ballot to be placed on the June 2024 Election cycle to ask the voters if they want to support
appointing the study commission for local government review. If the voters decline to do so, then the
ballot issue dies, and no further action needs to be taken. If the voters elect to do so, the study
commission will be appointed, and its responsibility will be to examine the City of Laurel governance
and submit recommendations to the City of Laurel. Any citizen may submit their request to be
included on the commission. I will submit a proposed Resolution to City Council by mid-February
of this year, in order to have City Council approve the proposed ballot language for the June 2024
election, as well as to set a budget included in the ballot.
In addition to a proposed sample budget, I am submitted materials herewith describing, in
more details, the purpose of the study commission and intended format of governmental review. I
will be happy to answer any questions in the upcoming City Council Meetings, during discussion,
about this matter, before it is placed for consideration in front of you as a Resolution.
OFFICE OF THE CIVIL CITY ATTORNEY
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Michele L. Braukmann, J.D.
CITY OF LAUREL
Civil City Attorney
civilattorney@laurel.mt.gov
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Updated September 2023
2024-2026 Montana Local Government Review
Sample Budget
Small Community
Population ~1,000
Medium Community
Population ~ 10,000
Large Community
Population ~ 30,000+
Training $3,000 $4,000 $5,000
Consulting $1,000 $3,000 $5,000
Resource Materials $500 $1,000 $3,000
Survey $500 $2,000 $5,000
Community
Engagement $1,500 $3,000 $5,000
Advertising/Notices $500 $2,000 $3,000
Support Staff $6,000 ($20/hr x 300 hrs) $6,000 ($20/hr x 300 hrs) $10,000 ($20/hr x 500 hrs)
Election Expenses* $3,000 $8,000 $15,000
Publication
(reports, summary, etc.) $500 $1,000 $3,000
Miscellaneous $500 $1,000 $3,000
Total: $17,000 $31,000 $57,000
*Check with the local election administrator for accurate estimated cost
This sample 2024-2026 Montana Local Government Review budget is for educational purposes
only. Each jurisdiction should estimate costs based on local needs and develop a budget that
reflects the expectations of the Local Government Review in that municipality or county.
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