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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Packet 03.25.2025 AGENDA CITY OF LAUREL CITY COUNCIL MEETING TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 2025 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 March 11, 2025. Correspondence 2. Beartooth RC&D March Correspondence 3. Fire Department Monthly Report - February 2025. Council Disclosure of Ex Parte Communications Public Hearing 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 Calenda r 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 Consent Calendar," is then voted upon by roll call under one motion. 4. Claims entered through March 21, 2025. 5. Approval of Payroll Register for PPE 3/16/2025 totaling $256.822.77. 6. Clerk/Treasurer Financial Statements February 2025. Ceremonial Calendar Reports of Boards and Commissions 7. Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of March 11, 2025. 8. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of February 24, 2025. 9. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of March 10, 2025. 10. Emergency Services Committee Minutes of February 24, 2025. 11. Public Works Committee Minutes of February 18, 2025. 1 12. Public Works Committee Minutes of March 17, 2025. 13. Park Board Minutes of March 6, 2025. 14. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of January 23, 2024. 15. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of February 27, 2024. 16. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of April 23, 2024. 17. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of May 28, 2024. 18. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of October 22, 2024. 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 19. Resolution No. R25-21: Resolution Of City Council Approving Final Annexation, Right-Of- Way Dedications, And Zoning For Approximately One Acre Of Property Adjacent To The City Of Laurel, As An Addition To The City Of Laurel, Yellowstone County, Montana. 20. Resolution No. R25-22 - A Resolution Of The City Council Approving The Expedited Subdivision Application For The McLelland Subdivision. 21. Resolution No. R25-23: A Resolution Of The City Council Authorizing The Mayor To Reschedule City Council Meeting Set On Veterans Day. 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 Counci l 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 pe rson’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 590 44, or present your request at City Hall, 115 West First Street, Laurel, Montana. 2 File Attachments for Item: 1. Approval of Minutes of March 11, 2025. 3 4 5 6 File Attachments for Item: 2. Beartooth RC&D March Correspondence 7 EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK RECEIPT BEARTOOTH RESOURCE CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT AREA, INC. I hereby acknowledge that I have had the opportunity to review the Employee Handbook containing the rules, regulations, and other policies and/or programs of my employment with Beartooth Resource Conservation and Development Area, Inc. This Employee Handbook supersedes any and all previous documents that may have been presented to me regarding rules and regulations at Beartooth Resource Conservation and Development Area, Inc. I understand that the statements contained in the Employee Handbook are not intended to be a contract for a specific term of employment. However, as a condition of employment, I understand and agree to conform to and comply with the rules and regulations as amended. I further understand that this Employee Handbook contains confidential business information and is not to be shared with anyone except employees of Beartooth Resource Conservation and Development Area, Inc. I also understand that I can report any act of sexual harassment to any company representative without fear of retaliation or job loss. Date Name (print) Signature 8 9 EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK FOR EMPLOYEES OF BEARTOOTH RESOURCE CONSERVATION & DEVELOPMENT AREA, INC. 10 INTRODUCTION WELCOME! The purpose of this Employee Handbook is to provide you with a complete summary of the rules, regulations and available benefits pertaining to your work assignments and work activity as an employee of Beartooth Resource Conservation and Development Area, Inc. (hereinafter known as BRCD) Please read the contents carefully. This Employee Handbook supersedes any and all previous documents pertaining to rules and regulations at BRCD. During the course of your employment, you will want to refer back to it when you have a question. This Employee Handbook is further intended to help you feel comfortable in your job and assist you in finding satisfaction in your job performance. Should you have any problem or concern relating to any action or situation affecting your work assignments or work conditions, please feel free to communicate your concerns. The Problem Resolution Procedure presented in this Employee Handbook is for the express purpose of helping you find a satisfactory resolution to any and all problems. We hope you find your work satisfying and rewarding. We look forward to a successful business relationship. EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK This handbook contains the rules and regulations for your employment relationship with BRCD. It is not intended to be a contract for employment between employee and BRCD. However, as a condition of employment, each employee agrees to comply with the rules and regulations herein or as may be amended. It is our intention to provide each employee with the proper understanding of his/her job and to help each employee satisfacto rily perform in his/her job. 11 CONTENTS NON-DISCRIMINATION IN EMPLOYMENT .............................................................................................................................. 1 PROVISIONAL EMPLOYMENT ................................................................................................................................................... 1 PRODUCTIVITY/JOB SECURITY ................................................................................................................................................ 1 OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT ............................................................................................................................................................. 1 FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE ............................................................................................................................................................... 1 PART-TIME EMPLOYEE ............................................................................................................................................................... 1 TEMPORARY EMPLOYEE ............................................................................................................................................................ 1 EXEMPT EMPLOYEE .................................................................................................................................................................... 2 EMPLOYEE WORK RULES .......................................................................................................................................................... 2 LAYOFF/REDUCTION IN STAFF ................................................................................................................................................. 2 REHIRE ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 2 RESIGNATION ............................................................................................................................................................................... 2 SCHEDULE OF WORK .................................................................................................................................................................. 2 FLEXIBLE HOURS ......................................................................................................................................................................... 3 MEAL PERIODS ............................................................................................................................................................................. 3 BREAKS .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 3 TARDINESS .................................................................................................................................................................................... 3 ATTENDANCE/ABSENTEEISM ................................................................................................................................................... 3 INFORMATION MEETINGS ......................................................................................................................................................... 3 PERSONAL INFORMATION ......................................................................................................................................................... 4 WAGE AND SALARY .................................................................................................................................................................... 4 PAY PERIOD/PAY DAY ................................................................................................................................................................ 4 TIME REPORTING ......................................................................................................................................................................... 4 OVERTIME ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 DEDUCTIONS ................................................................................................................................................................................. 4 PERFORMANCE EVALUATION .................................................................................................................................................. 5 BENEFITS........................................................................................................................................................................................ 5 EDUCATION ................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 RETIREMENT PLAN ...................................................................................................................................................................... 5 INSURANCE ................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 HOLIDAYS ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 VACATION ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 LEAVES OF ABSENCE .................................................................................................................................................................. 6 SICK LEAVE ................................................................................................................................................................................... 7 PARENTAL LEAVE ....................................................................................................................................................................... 7 MILITARY/LOCAL EMERGENCY VOLUNTEER LEAVE ........................................................................................................ 8 HOUSEKEEPING ............................................................................................................................................................................ 8 FIREARMS ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 8 ACCIDENT OR INJURY REPORTING ......................................................................................................................................... 8 ARRESTS or CITATIONS (REPORTING OF) ............................................................................................................................... 8 VISITORS ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 8 EQUIPMENT ................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 EQUIPMENT FAILURE/DAMAGE ............................................................................................................................................... 9 TELEPHONE/EQUIPMENT USAGE ............................................................................................................................................. 9 ALCOHOL/DRUGS ....................................................................................................................................................................... 10 RELATIVES (EMPLOYMENT OF) ............................................................................................................................................. 10 COMPUTER, INTERNET, E-MAIL, and SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE.......................................................................................... 10 TRAVEL ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 11 PURCHASES ................................................................................................................................................................................. 12 VEHICLE USE ............................................................................................................................................................................... 13 SOLICITATION............................................................................................................................................................................. 14 CUSTOMER CONFIDENTIALITY .............................................................................................................................................. 14 CUSTOMER RELATIONS ............................................................................................................................................................ 14 ORGANIZATIONAL CONFIDENTIALITY ................................................................................................................................ 14 REPRESENTATION OF SERVICES ............................................................................................................................................ 15 CONFLICT OF INTEREST ........................................................................................................................................................... 15 CODE OF CONDUCT ................................................................................................................................................................... 15 DISCIPLINE/TERMINATION ...................................................................................................................................................... 16 HARASSMENT/SEXUAL HARASSMENT ................................................................................................................................. 16 HARASSMENT HOTLINE ........................................................................................................................................................... 16 WHISTLEBLOWER POLICY ....................................................................................................................................................... 18 12 Page 1 Revised November 2023 NON-DISCRIMINATION IN EMPLOYMENT BRCD complies with federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination in employment. Applicants for employment are considered for employment and employees shall hold their employment without discrimination because of their race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, disability/handicap, or marital status as required by law, except when reasonable business demands so require and such distinction is required by law. In no event shall the hiring of any employee be considered as creating a contractual agreement or specified time period of employment. PROVISIONAL EMPLOYMENT For each new employee and each employee who is promoted and/or moved to a new position, the first ninety- (90) days are a probationary period. This period is established as a time of adjustment for you to learn the job requirements and work rules. During this time you may be terminated with or without cause provided it does not violate Equal Employment Opportunity rules or a protected class. BRCD reserves the right to extend the provisional period up to an additional nine (9) months. PRODUCTIVITY/JOB SECURITY Job availability is dependent upon the ability of BRCD to meet the needs of our customers, and upon the continuation of funding sources including sponsoring entities and grant sources. All employees have the responsibility for quality and productivity. As long as business is healthy and the competitive position of BRCD remains strong, job security should be enhanced. People are employed because they have skills that are needed to produce and distribute products and services that our customers demand. Unless these skills are properly used quality, productivity and job security diminish. OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT Due to the nature of the business and the professional liability that may accrue, you must give your primary attention to the work of BRCD. Employees are permitted to work for outside employers or engage in their own commercial endeavors provided that it is disclosed, does not interfere with job performance, is not direct competition or would pose a conflict of interest with BRCD, or would reflect poorly on BRCD. FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE A full time employee is one who works an annual average of forty (40) hours per week. A full- time employee is eligible for benefits. PART-TIME EMPLOYEE A part-time employee is one who works an annual average of less than forty (40) hours per week. A part-time employee may be eligible for a prorated benefits package provided the carrier has the ability to do so. TEMPORARY EMPLOYEE A temporary employee is one who is employed, full-time or part-time, for a specific job assignment with limited duration or during certain periods of time depending upon the demand of work as determined by BRCD. A temporary employee is not eligible for benefits. 13 Page 2 Revised November 2023 EXEMPT EMPLOYEE An exempt employee is an executive, administrative or professional employee who is exempt from minimum wage or overtime requirements. All other employees are non-exempt. EMPLOYEE WORK RULES It is the policy of the BRCD that the following work rules will apply to all employees. Working hours are agreed to by the Board Chairman and will become part of the employee’s file. However, hours and days of work could vary according to the needs of the office. Employees are required to provide advance notice of the need to adjust their work schedule. The General Manager shall act, on behalf of the Board Chairman, as the employees’ immediate supervisor and may exercise authority upon consulting the Board Chair, and effectively recommend hiring, suspension, promotion and raises. The BRCD program Directors will carry out management of their respective programs. The General Manager may seek information or recommendations from the program Directors on staffing decisions. LAYOFF/REDUCTION IN STAFF If a reduction in staff becomes necessary, the BRCD Board will give full consideration to skills, aptitudes and past work performance in determining work force adjustments. REHIRE Employees who are separated from employment either voluntarily or involuntarily and then rehired within thirty (30) days of the lay-off date and who have previously completed the provisional employment period will be immediately reinstated for allowable benefits and benefit accrual. All other rehired employees will be classified as a new hire. RESIGNATION A resignation is the voluntary decision of an employee to terminate his/her employment with BRCD. A notice of resignation two (2) weeks prior to the termination date is requested to be submitted to your supervisor. When resignation occurs, payment of final wages will be made at the time of the next regularly scheduled pay period or within 10 days of the resignation date, whichever is earlier. Upon resignation, prior to the disbursement of the final paycheck, employees are required to return any BRCD property they may have in their possession including but not limited to; Keys, access codes, hard-copy and digital files, computers, credit cards and any other office/field equipment. SCHEDULE OF WORK The normal scheduled work time is from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The workweek is Sunday through Saturday. Work periods may vary from assignment to assignment and may require overtime. Each employee will designate a set workweek upon hire, which will be periodically reviewed and updated. Changes to the established workweek will be made in writing prior to the proposed change as defined in the employee work rules. 14 Page 3 Revised November 2023 Each non-exempt employee is required to know his/her work schedule and be in attendance as assigned. Exempt employees are expected to meet the requirements of their job, which may necessitate varied hours of work. FLEXIBLE HOURS The General Manager is authorized to approve requests for ad hoc or temporary alternative work schedules (two weeks or less) to accommodate special circumstances related to business or personal requirements. Employees who need a longer term alternative arrangement of their work schedules and who are eligible by nature of their job may formally request a change in their working hours, days or weeks, which will be submitted to the Board Chairman for review. MEAL PERIODS An unpaid meal period is provided for employees who work eight (8) hour periods and will be at or near the middle of the work period. Meal periods must be a minimum thirty (30) minutes in duration. Meal periods which require attention to work assignments will be counted as working time. BREAKS Fifteen (15) minute break periods are granted because we believe they result in good employee morale and increased productivity. Break periods are counted as working time. They may be taken once in the morning and once in the afternoon. TARDINESS Reporting to work on time is required. "On-time" is defined as being properly dressed and prepared to begin work at the start of the scheduled work period. There will be no compensation for tardiness for non-exempt employees. ATTENDANCE/ABSENTEEISM Regular attendance is required. When it is necessary to be absent, you must notify your supervisor as far in advance as possible, prior to a scheduled work period. Irregular attendance, unexcused absences or unreported absences cause disruption to BRCD and are unacceptable. An unexcused absence is one in which an employee requests but is not granted time away from his/her assigned work schedule. An unreported absence is one in which an employee does not contact BRCD the day he/she is out. Irregular attendance is defined as unpaid absences but does not include a formal leave of absence. Two (2) unexcused absences or an unreported absence for a period of two (2) consecutive days may be considered as a voluntary resignation or may be a cause for disciplinary action. Irregular attendance exceeding twelve (12) days in a six- (6) month period is cause for disciplinary action. INFORMATION MEETINGS On certain occasions you may be required to attend meetings to receive training or information regarding workplace policies, safety items, product and business information. Your supervisor 15 Page 4 Revised November 2023 will notify you of these scheduled meetings and you may be required, as part of your workday, to attend. You will be compensated at the appropriate rate of pay for any hours spent in these meetings. PERSONAL INFORMATION For accurate administration of your wages and benefits, and for compliance with Federal and State regulations, it is necessary that current and accurate personnel records be maintained. This information is also necessary in the event you must be reached for an emergency or available work. If there are changes, or if you are aware of any errors in your personnel records, please notify your supervisor immediately. Falsification of any personnel information is cause for termination. All personal information will be kept in confidence. WAGE AND SALARY You will receive a rate of pay commensurate with your job position. Consideration for pay adjustments will be at the sole discretion of the Board. Changes to compensation, including salary increases or bonuses, will be contingent on funding availability and satisfactory employee performance appraisals. At the discretion of BRCD, salary and/or classification surveys may be conducted to evaluate equity in compensation. PAY PERIOD/PAY DAY The pay period is monthly, from the 16th day of one month to the 15th day of the next month. The payday is the twentieth day of each month. Payroll advances are not available. TIME REPORTING All employees are required to complete daily time cards/sheets, as provided by BRCD. The purpose of the time card/sheet is to keep track of your time for management to compute eligibility and amount of pay and/or evaluation of job specifications and requirements. Actual hours worked must be recorded and cannot be based on estimates. Time cards/sheets must be filled out accurately and completely, signed and turned in for approval. It is your responsibility to have your time cards/sheets turned in to management no later than the fifteenth day of each month. Time cards/sheets received after that time may result in your pay being delayed to the next scheduled payday. Filling in another employee's time card/sheet is not permitted and is a cause for termination. OVERTIME For purposes of overtime pay, employees are classified as exempt or non-exempt. Exempt employees are not eligible for overtime pay. Non-exempt employees receive overtime pay for all hours worked over forty- (40) hours in a workweek. The overtime rate is one and one-half (1 1/2) times the base rate of pay. All non-exempt overtime must be approved in advance by management. Excessive logging of overtime, particularly unapproved overtime, will be cause for disciplinary action or even termination. DEDUCTIONS Each paycheck will have certain amounts deducted from the gross pay, which includes the following deductions required by law: a. State and Federal Withholding Tax 16 Page 5 Revised November 2023 b. Social Security Contributions (FICA) c. Workers' Compensation Tax (where applicable) d. Court Mandated Withholdings PERFORMANCE EVALUATION An evaluation of your work performance will be made on an annual basis and is for the express purpose of determining your standard of performance in relation to the job position requirements and work place rules and regulations. Performance evaluations will be a factor in the consideration of compensation. BENEFITS Various employee benefits may be available to you such as vacation, holidays, insurance programs, and Retirement Plan. Eligibility is dependent upon length of service, job classification, rate of pay, hours worked and standards set forth by the providers. Eligibility for benefits begins with your first day of employment. EDUCATION Each employee is encouraged to continue his/her professional education. Each employee is individually responsible for his/her own occupational qualifications. BRCD will seek opportunities to help the employees by sending them to appropriate training courses or seminars. RETIREMENT PLAN BRCD will match an employee’s contribution of up to 3% into a 401K plan. This retirement benefit will be maintained for employees that have been hired as permanent employees, both part time and full time INSURANCE Unemployment and Workers Compensation Insurance is provided, as required by law, and covers all employees. HOLIDAYS Full-time employees will receive the following paid holidays: One-half day before New Year’s, New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, the day following Thanksgiving Day, one half day on Christmas Eve Day, and Christmas Day and all other recognized state or federal Holidays. Additional paid days off may be granted at the discretion of BRCD. Holiday pay will be provided to all employees on a prorated basis according to the employment status of the individual employee. (ie; a 60% employee would be paid 60% of an 8-hour day or 4.8 hours) On any occasion where a paid Holiday falls on Saturday, the holiday leave will be granted for the preceding work day. On any occasion where a paid Holiday falls on Sunday, the holiday leave will be granted for the next work day. 17 Page 6 Revised November 2023 VACATION It is the policy of BRCD that each full-time employee shall earn annual vacation credits from the first day of employment. Annual leave cannot be earned while on leave-without-pay status, or on overtime hours. Vacation leave credits are earned at a monthly rate calculated according to the following schedules applying to the total years of employment with BRCD. For calculating vacation-leave credits for a full time employee, 2080 hours (52 weeks x 40 hours) shall equal one year. YEARS OF EMPLOYMENT VACATION DAYS ACCRUED PER YEAR VACATION DAYS ACCRUED PER MONTH 1 day to 10 years 18 1.50 10 years to 20 years 21 1.75 20 years or more 24 2.00 Permanent part-time employees are entitled to prorated annual vacation benefits. Prorated vacation time will be based on the amount of hours worked. An employee whose employment is terminated with the BRCD for any reason shall be entitled to cash compensation for unused vacation based on their salary at the time of termination. Annual vacation leave may be accumulated to a total not to exceed two times the maximum number of days earned annually. Annual leave time in excess of the maximum is not forfeited if it is taken within 90 calendar days from the last day of the calendar year in which the excess was accrued. The dates when an employee’s annual vacation leave can be taken shall be determined by agreement between each employee and their immediate supervisor. BRCD reserves the right to alter vacation schedules due to BRCD work demands. LEAVES OF ABSENCE After completion of one year of employment an unpaid leave of absence, not to exceed ten (10) working days may be granted for reasons of bona fide illness or for other reasons mutually agreed upon with BRCD. Leaves must be requested in writing and shall state the reason for the leave and the dates desired. Benefit contributions and benefit accruals will be suspended during leaves. Upon expiration of the leave, or upon notification to BRCD of your intent to return, you will be returned to the next available job opening in your classification. If you do not report upon the expiration of the leave, or any extension authorized by BRCD, you shall be considered as having voluntarily given your resignation.  See military/local emergency volunteer leave of absence policy  State law shall govern a maternity leave of absence  Family leave is governed by Federal law and may require 30-day advance notice 18 Page 7 Revised November 2023 SICK LEAVE It is the policy of BRCD that all permanent full-time employees earn sick leave at the rate of one day per calendar month of employment without restrictions to the number of days that may be accumulated. Permanent part-time employees are entitled to prorated accumulation of sick leave. Sick leave credits are earned from the first day of employment, but employees are not entitled to take paid sick leave until they have been continuously employed for ninety days. Sick leave cannot be earned while on leave-without-pay status. Employees may take sick leave, aside from personal illness, for the following reasons: the illness of an employee’s immediate family member; a death of an employee’s immediate family; attendance at a funeral of a fellow employee or a personal friend; and for dentist and doctor appointments. An employee on sick leave shall inform the Supervisor as soon as is reasonably possible. Sick leave is a valuable privilege intended to prevent loss of income. If abuse of sick leave is suspected, the supervisor may request a valid doctor’s verification of illness or injury. An employee who has been unable to work due to illness or accident may be required, before being permitted to return to work, to provide medical evidence that he/she is again able to perform all significant duties of the position in a competent manner, without hazard to himself/herself or others. Sick leave charges and credits shall be charged to the nearest one half hour. Sick leave charges in excess of earned sick leave credit may be charged to earned and available annual leave. Employees covered by the Worker’s Compensation Act are entitled to benefits administered by the Industrial Accident Board when they suffer injury or illness as a result of their employment. An employee may elect to use his accrued sick leave credits to supplement his Worker’s Compensation payments. Any holiday which falls during a period that an employee is on sick leave, will not be charged against sick leave credits. Employees who terminate employment with BRCD for any reason are entitled to a lump sum payment equal to one-fourth of the time attributed to the accumulated sick leave, based on the current salary of the employee at termination. PARENTAL LEAVE BRCD is committed to complying with the following in regards to our parental leave policy: Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act as amended by the Pregnanc y discrimination Act of 1978; Family and Medical Leave Act; Americans with Disabilities Act; and applicable state and local family leave laws. 19 Page 8 Revised November 2023 Employees are entitled to up to eight weeks of unpaid parental leave. Paid annual and sick leave may be substituted for unpaid parental leave in accordance with other provisions in this manual. This leave may be taken either by the father or mother. When the employee returns to work, she/he is entitled to return to the same or equivalent job with no loss of service or other rights or privileges. Should the employee not return to work when released by the physician, she/he will be considered to have voluntarily terminated employment with BRCD. MILITARY/LOCAL EMERGENCY VOLUNTEER LEAVE It shall be the policy of BRCD that all employees who are members of the Montana National Guard or who are members of the organized or unorganized reserve of the military forces of the United States and who have been employed by BRCD for a period of six months, shall be given leave with pay for a period of time not to exceed fifteen working days in a calendar year for attending regular encampments, training cruises, training programs, active duty. In regards to local emergency organizations, the employee is granted the same leave with pay benefit for reasonable periods of time to serve their community in emergency situations with approval of the executive committee. Such leave will not be charged against vacation or sick leave. JURY DUTY Employees are encouraged to accept civic responsibility. A leave of absence will be granted when you are called to jury duty or subpoenaed as a witness. Jury Duty leave applies to full-time and part-time employees. Compensation will be provided by the courts. HOUSEKEEPING You are responsible for good housekeeping practices and for keeping your assigned work area clean. Good housekeeping is essential to a safe, clean and pleasant work atmosphere and includes proper disposal of trash or waste materials. FIREARMS Possession of firearms, handguns or any related items or materials while performing job duties or while on BRCD premises or vehicles is prohibited. Violation of this policy may lead to suspension or termination. ACCIDENT OR INJURY REPORTING If you are injured on the job, or involved in an accident involving BRCD equipment, you must report the accident immediately (on the same work shift). ARRESTS or CITATIONS (REPORTING OF) All arrests or summons for legal violations while on BRCD business and/or while operating BRCD equipment must be reported immediately to your supervisor. Failure to report will result in disciplinary action being taken. VISITORS Visitation is to take place in the break room, reception area or individual office of person receiving the visitor. Excessive interruptions by visitors are grounds for disciplinary action 20 Page 9 Revised November 2023 including termination. Visitors are not allowed on external job sites due to liability and safety considerations. Employees are asked to consult with the job site supervisor in the event an emergency necessitates a visit. EQUIPMENT Capital Equipment as defined by the OMB is “tangible nonexpendable personal property having a useful life of more than one year and an acquisition cost of $5,000 or more per unit.” All capital assets are recorded at historical cost as of the date acquired. The acquisition cost includes installation charges and freight. All costs associated with making the asset serviceable are capitalized. Invoices substantiating the acquisition cost of each unit of property shall be retained for a minimum of three years. Equipment with an economic useful life of 12 months or less are expensed for financial statement purposes, regardless of the acquisition or production cost. Equipment acquired with external support becomes the property of the organization unless restricted by the funding organization. The organization will obtain prior approval from the awarding agency prior to purchasing capital equipment. In order to ensure the proper receipt and tracking of equipment, the organization tags all equipment at the time of acquisition and performs a physical inventory of equipment purchased with grant funds at least every two years. The organization verifies the existence and condition of the equipment and the accuracy of records related to equipment. The organization establishes maintenance procedures and records of the operational condition of equipment. The Executive Director is notified of condition, location, loss or damage to equipment who then notifies appropriate Federal agency. Records are submitted to the Executive Director for review and approval. The organization maintains records tracking equipment including description, serial number, source of funding (including the Federal Award Identification Number, or FAIN), percentage of federal participation in the cost of the equipment, title holder, acquisition date and cost, location, use and condition status, and disposition data. This information is maintained by the Executive Director. EQUIPMENT FAILURE/DAMAGE/DISPOSAL Damage or needed repair of BRCD equipment must be reported immediately to the supervisor. Violation of this requirement is cause for disciplinary action. Request disposition if an item purchased with grant funds is determined to be obsolete, and the item’s value exceeds $5,000. If it meets these criterions, disposition rules are followed. This may include requesting disposition instructions from the awarding agency. Disposition practice requires compensating the federal awarding agency for its proportion of the original cost applied to the fair market value. The Executive Director and Board Chair should be notified prior to the disposal of an asset purchased with federal funds. Supplies less than $5,000 are retained by grantee. TELEPHONE/EQUIPMENT USAGE Telephones and other BRCD equipment are furnished for the operation of the business. Telephone use for personal calls shall be kept to a minimum. No personal long distance calls are to be made and charged to BRCD. No personal use of other BRCD equipment is permitted without prior approval by management. 21 Page 10 Revised November 2023 ALCOHOL/DRUGS Personal use, sale, purchase, transfer, or possession of alcohol or any illegal drug while performing job duties, while on BRCD grounds or in a BRCD vehicle is prohibited. The presence, in any detectable amount, of alcohol or any illegal drug while performing job duties or while on BRCD premises or in a BRCD vehicle is prohibited. Violation of this regulation is cause for discipline including termination. RELATIVES (EMPLOYMENT OF) Relatives of employees will not be employed into or assigned to jobs in which they have a di rect or indirect working relationship with each other. COMPUTER, INTERNET, E-MAIL, and SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE Computers, computer files, internet access, the E-mail system, BRCD Social Media accounts and software furnished for employee use are the property of BRCD and intended for business use only. Employees are not to use a password, access a file or retrieve any stored communication without approval of the General Manager. To insure compliance with this policy, computer and E-mail usage may be monitored. All emails and communications using BRCD corporate resources are the property of BRCD. BRCD strives to maintain a workplace free of harassment and therefore prohibits the use of computers and E-mail in ways that are disruptive, offensive to others or harmful to morale. The display or transmission of sexually explicit images, messages and cartoons is not permitted. Other such misuse includes but is not limited to, ethnic slurs, racial comments, off-color jokes or anything that may be construed as harassment or disrespect for others. BRCD Internet, E-mail and Social Media accounts may not be used for solicitation of commercial ventures, religious or political causes or other non-business matters. BRCD purchases and licenses the use of various computer software for business purposes and does not own the copyright to the software or its related documentation. Employees may only use the software on approved area networks or on multiple machines according to the license agreement. Illegal duplication of software and related documentation is prohibited. Employees are required to notify their immediate supervisor upon learning of violations of this policy. 22 Page 11 Revised November 2023 TRAVEL Mileage and meal reimbursement will be made to employees using their own vehicle for business purposes in accordance set forth in the Personnel Policy. These rates will correspond to the allowable rates set by the Federal Government (gsa.gov). See BRCD Travel Policies and Procedures in the BRCD Employee Handbook for more information. 1. At the end of each month, the employee will submit an expense report (Exhibit B) indicating class and expense line item to bill to. The employee must sign the form. 2. Receipts must be attached to the expense report 3. The Financial Officer will verify the expense report and prepare a document for the Executive Director to sign, before travel reimbursements are issued. 4. Improper or incomplete expense reports will be returned to the employee for correction or completion. 5. Payment of the expense report will be in accordance with the procedures in the Cash Disbursements Procedures section of this manual. It is the policy of BRCD that employees representing BRCD on official business shall receive reimbursement for approved actual travel expenses, meals, mileage and incidental expenses not to exceed current Federal Per Diem reimbursement rates. BRCD corporate credit card may be used for approved expenses as an alternative to reimbursement. All charges must be supported by receipts. Mileage will be reimbursed based on the current Federal rate. Purchases of alcohol will not be reimbursed or purchased using the BRCD corporate credit card. If you are travelling representing BRCD business, BRCD will pay for your meal(s). If you possess a BRCD corporate credit card, you may use it to purchase your meal, or you may use your own funds and request reimbursement during the payroll cycle. Meals purchased for others require approval by the General Manager. Actual registration fees for approved conferences, workshops, and meetings shall first be approved and then either paid in advance or reimbursed to the person incurring them, provided a claim or reimbursement is supported by a receipt showing payment of the registration fee.  The Executive Director shall approve all travel expenses.  The Executive Director and the ExCo must review and approve advances in payment if requested. Expense advances may be approved by BRCD to offset any undue financial hardships on employees traveling on behalf of BRCD.  The Finance Director reviews all travel claims to ensure that the costs claimed and billed are associated with specific projects and programs.  Travel expenses are submitted by program directors, then reviewed by (1) Financial Director; (2) Executive Director; and (3) Executive Committee. The willful misrepresentation or altering of claims is unlawful and grounds for dismissal, and may result in the filing of criminal charges. 23 Page 12 Revised November 2023 PURCHASES To Prompt a Purchase: 1. When the normal cash disbursement procedure of invoice is not appropriate, a bill pay request is written and forwarded with any invoice or other documentation to the Executive Director for approval or denial. 2. In the absence of backup materials, receipts for the purchase must be provided to the Financial Officer for attachment to the bill pay request within two days from the check date. 3. Purchases with a value of $5,000 or more will require a minimum of two (2) formal written quotations from vendors. Orders will be placed based on the lowest or most appropriate and acceptable price quotation. Before a purchase is made, the appropriate committee must approve the purchase. Credit Card Purchases: Staff members must be authorized by BRCD to carry a BRCD credit card in his or her name. In every case of credit card usage, the individual charging a BRCD account will be held personally responsible if the charge is deemed personal or unauthorized. Each staff member with a BRCD credit card is required to complete a monthly credit expense tracking form (Exhibit C) indicating the class and expenses account for each charge. Receipts for expenditures must be attached to the form and submitted to the Executive Director for review. Authorized uses of the credit card include: ● Airline tickets (at coach class or lower rates) for properly authorized business trips. ● Lodging charges that do not exceed the authorized reimbursement rate for persons traveling on official BRCD business. ● Car rental charges (for mid-size or smaller vehicles) for properly authorized business trips ● Properly authorized expenditures such as computer software and office supplies. ● Receipts should be compiled and submitted citing the reason for the expense and which BRCD account is to be charged. The Financial Officer will reconcile all credit card charges to the monthly statement. ● Unauthorized use of the company credit card includes: o Personal or non-business expenditures of any kind o Expenditures which have not been properly authorized o Gifts or other expenditures which are prohibited by: ■ BRCD budget and/or policies ■ Federal, state, or local laws or regulations ■ Grant conditions or policies of the entities from which BRCD receives funds Proper Documentation for all Purchases, including BRCD Credit Card Purchases: Every instance of credit card or other purchase use must be documented with travel authorizations, receipts, invoices paid for, nature of business, etc. before the expense will be considered authorized and will be approved for reimbursement. See details below. Lodging - Employees must provide an itemized receipt from the hotel detailing every charge and the name of the person(s) for whom lodging was provided. Other Expenditures (i.e. supplies fuel, training materials, etc.)- Employees must provide a receipt from the vendor detailing every individual good or service purchased (including class of service for commercial transportation) accompanied by an explanation of the specific business purpose which was furthered by each expenditure. 24 Page 13 Revised November 2023 Capital Expenditures: For all major expenditures such as computers, furniture, audit services, printing services, etc. the appropriate committee must be notified before a purchasing decision is made if the amount will exceed $5000. There will be an analysis performed before any purchase/contract is in negotiation and or purchased. This will provide information of the most practical and economical choice. Consultants: Contracts with consultants will include rate and schedule of pay, deliverables, time frame, and other information such as a work plan, etc. Justification for payment should be submitted to file. For example, if BRCD hired a writer to create a publication, a copy of the final version should be included in the file. Contracts for Goods and Services: Contracts for purchasing products or services, similar to a purchase order, should be created and maintained for the file whenever appropriate. All contracts should be approved by the Executive Board. BRCD follows procurement procedures as specified in 2 CFR 200.317-200.326 Procurement Standards. Before a purchase is made, the staff member must use the purchasing checklist provided for the following: a) Procurements by states; b) General procurement standards; c) Competition; d) Methods of procurement to be followed (Thresholds determined by FAR at 48 CFR part 2, subpart 2.1) ; e) contracting with small and minority business, women’s business enterprises, and labor surplus or firms; f) domestic preferences for procurement; g) procurement of recovered materials; h) contract cost and prices; i) Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity review; j) bonding requirements; k) contract provisions. The Financial Officer will check the suspension and debarment list prior to the award of a contract. VEHICLE USE You may be required to operate a motor vehicle (either personally owned or BRCD provided) while performing your job duties. Your responsibility will include strict compliance with BRCD policy and all traffic regulations of the city, county and state. Anyone operating a vehicle on behalf of BRCD must possess a valid operator’s license and have proper insurance coverage. Any changes or restrictions regarding your license or insurance must be reported to BRCD. A review of your motor vehicle driving record may be performed annually. Non-BRCD personnel are to be allowed as passengers in the BRCD corporate vehicle for business purposes only. The vehicle must be driven by a current BRCD staff member. Accidents and/or traffic violations while on BRCD business must be reported immediately to management. Failure to report accidents and/or traffic violations is cause for disciplinary action and/or termination. Fines and/or penalties resulting from accidents or traffic violations are solely your responsibility and shall not be paid for by BRCD. Approved use of personal vehicle for official BRCD activity will be reimbursed of a rate not to exceed the current Federal reimbursement rate 25 Page 14 Revised November 2023 SOLICITATION BRCD prohibits solicitation, gambling, conducting a lottery, distribution, or similar activity on its premises. Employees and non-employees (except representatives of suppliers properly identified for normal business), are prohibited from soliciting funds or signatures, conducting membership drives, distributing literature or gifts, offering to sell merchandise or services. Employees’ wishing to conduct fund drives for charitable organizations or employee gifts must request permission from their supervisor. CUSTOMER CONFIDENTIALITY You are not to discuss or otherwise divulge any information concerning the business affairs of any customer of BRCD. Any action or expression by an employee considered objectionable by customers, prospective customers or your supervisor may be cause for disciplinary action including termination. CUSTOMER RELATIONS To preserve and foster the public's trust and confidence in BRCD, it is imperative that all employees act with complete honesty and fairness. You are expected to be knowledgeable about your job and applicable laws and regulations pertaining to your job. Whenever you have a question relating to applicable laws or regulations, you should seek out appropriate advice before acting. In dealing with the public, you are expected to exercise good judgment and common sense. Commitments to others should be made only if such commitments can realistically be met. In this regard, the products and services of BRCD should be presented accurately and fairly. If you should become aware of actual or potential problems in any area of the business of BRCD, you are expected to inform your supervisor immediately. If you are aware of improvements to policies, procedures, products and/or possible business opportunity that will contribute to customer satisfaction and enhance BRCD, you are urged to bring those improvements to the attention of your supervisor. ORGANIZATIONAL CONFIDENTIALITY You may have access to records and/or other information about BRCD and/or other workers. This includes proprietary information, operation procedures, trade secrets and intellectual property. You are not to discuss this information with anyone else without proper authority. Anything BRCD does to design, produce and market their products that competitors cannot or do not do is treated as proprietary information, often called trade secrets. Any information that would damage the business of BRCD if it became public knowledge or was disclosed to a competitor is considered a trade secret. This includes, but is not limited to, information on production, service, sales or financial matters. You are not to discuss proprietary information with any person from outside BRCD or with other employees in any public place where it is possible to be overheard. Should you leave BRCD for any reason, the obligation not to disclose proprietary information continues. 26 Page 15 Revised November 2023 REPRESENTATION OF SERVICES Employees will, during their assigned duties, perform services in the name of BRCD. Upon termination of employment (either voluntarily or involuntarily) employee shall not falsely represent said services to a new employer and/or customer. All work/services provided by BRCD is in the name of BRCD. Any individual who seeks personal ownership/authorship in said services will be in violation of BRCD's proprietary information. These violations will be taken seriously. CONFLICT OF INTEREST The Board of Directors has adopted a conflict of interest policy, which is periodically reviewed and updated. Annually, each BRCD Board member and officer will certify they have received and understand the policy. BRCD Staff will also be provided with the policy upon their hiring and periodically thereafter. CODE OF CONDUCT You should always be mindful of the position of BRCD in the community. Good reputation and success requires continuing adherence to high standards. LANGUAGE All employees are required to refrain from using slang, profanity, and/or offensive remarks concerning any Federal and/or State protected class (i.e. age, sex, race, religion, marital status, disability and national origin.) ATTIRE Each employee reflects the image of BRCD and is required to wear suitable professional attire. See management for details. HYGIENE All employees must maintain personal grooming habits that reflect a presentable image for yourself, and BRCD. BEHAVIOR All employees are required to refrain from fighting or physical assault (whether serious or playful) on or with a customer or co-worker. TOBACCO PRODUCTS Use of tobacco products on BRCD premises or while in contact with customers (including e-cigarettes or ‘vaping’) is not permitted. INSUBORDINATION Refusal to follow directions of the supervisor, assaulting a supervisor, or using profane language to a supervisor is prohibited. Questioning, criticizing or denouncing management and its methods of operation publicly or to anyone other than the department head, supervisor or administrative personnel is considered detrimental to operations and the ability of management to carry out its responsibilities. Such behavior on 27 Page 16 Revised November 2023 DISCIPLINE/TERMINATION BRCD believes you should be given the opportunity to satisfactorily perform in your job. In the event of failure to perform you may be disciplined and/or terminated. When termination/separation occurs, payment of final wages will be made at the time of the next regularly scheduled pay period or within 10 days of the resignation date, whichever is earlier. After you have completed the provisional employment period you may be disciplined and/or terminated for job-related reasons including a failure to satisfactorily perform job duties, disruption of business operations, failure to comply with employment rules and regulations, conflicts of interest, or other actions deemed serious and/or other legitimate business reasons, including business changes in the operation of BRCD. When termination occurs, payment of final wages will be made at the time of the next regularly scheduled pay period or within 10 days of the resignation date, whichever is earlier. HARASSMENT/SEXUAL HARASSMENT All forms of harassment including any degrading work assignment(s), word(s) or action(s) toward an individual or any Federal and/or State protected class (i.e. age, sex, race, religion, marital status, disability and national origin) are prohibited. It is specifically emphasized that sexual harassment in any form is expressly prohibited. Conduct of any kind that is perceived to be sexual harassment by a supervisor or employee will not be tolerated. Sexual harassment conduct includes but is not limited to: explicitly or implicitly subjecting an employee to sexual advances as a condition of the employee's employment, evaluation, salary, advancement, assigned duties, shifts or any other condition of employment; sexual flirtations, touching, advances or proposition; the development of a perceived flirtatious personal relationship between two employees where one employee is in a position to assign or review the work of the other; verbal abuse of a sexual nature; graphic or suggestive comments about an individual's dress or body; sexually degrading words to describe an individual; the display in the work place of sexually suggestive objects or pictures, including nude photographs; and/or any unwelcome conduct which unreasonably interferes with the employees job performance or creates a hostile or offensive work environment. Any employee who engages in conduct of harassment will be subject to discipline and/or termination. HARASSMENT HOTLINE Beartooth and BRCD have a zero tolerance policy regarding any discriminatory, harassing or retaliatory conduct in the workplace. Pursuant to that policy, we have subscribed to a telephone reporting/complaint service called the Harassment Hotline so that our employees can readily report such acts, including theft and safety matters without fear of retaliation, job loss or embarrassment. The Hotline is an unbiased, third party reporting system and satisfies the United States Supreme 28 Page 17 Revised November 2023 Court’s position that companies must “…clearly show they provide a simple complaint process that is calculated to encourage victims of harassment to come forward.” We do not anticipate that our employees will need to use the Harassment Hotline, as we expect and assume that all of our employees will conduct themselves free of h arassment. Still, if it is needed, the service is available and allows ANY employee to report any allegation of sexual harassment, discrimination, retaliation, theft, or any safety concern that occurs in the workplace, or any harassment by a third party. Sexual harassment, discrimination, retaliation and other dysfunctional behavior cannot and will not be tolerated under any circumstances. The only way we can stop such behavior in the workplace is bring it out in the open by communication and total employee/employer commitment. Reporting and Act of Harrassment: You are requested and strongly urged to report immediately to your supervisor any act of harassment. All complaints of harassment will be treated seriously and employee confidentiality will be respected. For the convenience of our employees, the Hotline can be accessed 24 -hours per day, 7-days per week. The toll free number is 1-800 –97-STOP IT which is 1-800-977-8674. Our company has a unique identification number, which is 990039. Remember that any employee may call the toll- free telephone number at any time and report harassment, discrimination, retaliation, theft or any safety concern without fear of retaliation. Remember that the company management cannot correct any situation that is of concern to you unless it knows about it. In this regard, your cooperation is needed and appreciated. Problem Resolution: It is the intent of BRCD and BRCD to assure you that it is interested in your ideas, suggestions as well as your questions, concerns, problems or grievances. You should feel free to communicate your ideas, suggestions, concerns, problems or grievances to management. An appropriate problem or grievance is defined as "An employee's expressed feeling of dissatisfaction concerning an application or interpretation of work related matters". If you have a grievance, you must follow the procedure contained in this Employee handbook. This procedure is your exclusive remedy for any dispute resolution. You will not be penalized for proper use of the procedure. However, it is not proper to use the procedure by presenting a grievance in bad faith or for the purpose of delay or harassment, or by presenting a problem or grievance that a reasonable person would judge to have no merit. Problem Resolution Procedure: If you feel you have a problem or appropriate grievance, you must proceed as follows: STEP ONE: Immediately bring the problem or grievance to the attention of the BRCD General Manager, and attempt to resolve it informally. 29 Page 18 Revised November 2023 STEP TWO: If you are unable to resolve your problem or grievance informally, present it in writing to the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors within ten (10) days of the occurrence of the matter. The Executive Committee will have ten (10) days in which to respond to you in writing. (If you are not able to communicate to the Chairman, you may present your problem or grievance in writing to another Executive Committee member). STEP THREE: If your problem or grievance is not resolved to your satisfaction, present it in writing to the Board of Directors within ten (10) days of the Executive Committee written response. Your grievance will be reviewed and a final decision will be made within ten (10) days. WHISTLEBLOWER POLICY The Beartooth RC&D requires directors, officers and employees to observe high standards of business and personal ethics in the conduct of their duties and responsibilities. As employees and representatives of the Beartooth RC&D, we must practice honesty and integrity in fulfilling our responsibilities and comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Reporting Responsibility: It is the responsibility of all directors, officers and employees to report ethics violations or suspected violations in accordance with this Whistleblower Policy. No Retaliation: No director, officer or employee who in good faith reports an ethics violation shall suffer harassment, retaliation or adverse employment consequence. An employee who retaliates against someone who has reported a violation in good faith is subject to discipline up to and including termination of employment. This Whistleblower Policy is intended to encourage and enable employees and others to raise serious concerns with the Beartooth RC&D prior to seeking resolution outside the Beartooth RC&D. Reporting Violations: Beartooth RC&D has an open door policy and suggests that employees share their questions, concerns, suggestions or complaints with someone who can address them properly. In most cases, an employee’s supervisor is in the best position to address an area of concern. However, if you are not comfortable speaking with your supervisor or you are not satisfied with your supervisor’s response, you are encouraged to speak with the Beartooth RC&D Board Chairman or a member of the Executive Committee whom you are comfortable in approaching. Supervisors and managers are required to report suspected ethics violations to the Beartooth RC&D’s Board Chairman, who has specific and exclusive responsibility to investigate all reported violations. For suspected fraud, or when you are not satisfied or uncomfortable with following the Beartooth RC&D’s open door policy, individuals should contact the Beartooth RC&D’s Board Chairman directly. Compliance Officer: The Beartooth RC&D’s Compliance Officer is the Board Chairman and is responsible for investigating and resolving all reported complaints and allegations concerning violations and, at his/her discretion, shall advise the Executive Committee. The Board Chairman 30 Page 19 Revised November 2023 has direct access to the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors and is required to report to the Executive Committee at least annually on compliance activity. The Beartooth RC&D’s Board Chairman is the chair of the Executive Committee. Accounting and Auditing Matters: The Executive Committee of the Board of Directors shall address all reported concerns or complaints regarding corporate accounting practices, internal controls or auditing. The Beartooth RC&D Board Chairman shall immediately notify the Executive Committee of any such complaint and work with the committee until the matter is resolved. Acting in Good Faith: Anyone filing a complaint concerning a violation or suspected violation must be acting in good faith and have reasonable grounds for believing the information disclosed indicates a violation. Any allegations that prove not to be substantiated and which prove to have been made maliciously or knowingly to be false will be viewed as a serious disciplinary offense. Confidentiality: Violations or suspected violations may be submitted on a confidential basis by the complainant or may be submitted anonymously. Reports of violations or suspected violations will be kept confidential to the extent possible, consistent with the need to conduct an adequate investigation. Handling of Reported Violations: The Beartooth RC&D Board Chairman will notify the sender and acknowledge receipt of the reported violation or suspected violations within five business days. All reports will be promptly investigated and appropriate corrective action will be taken if warranted by the investigation. 31 Beartooth RC&D Area, Inc. Board of Directors Meeting Agenda Meeting 1 P.M. Thursday, March 20, 2025 Big Horn County Courthouse Conference Room 121 West 3rd Street- first floor, Hardin, MT 1:00 pm 2:30 PM Meeting Called to Order Pledge of Allegiance, Introduction of Members and Guests Review Board Minutes Congressional Updates Tory Kolkhorst (Sen. Daines) Zoey Stroop (Congressman Downing) Wesley DeGiulio (Sen. Sheehy) Treasurer/Financial Reports 1. Treasurer Update 2. RC&D Financials 3. RLF Financials Personnel Handbook Review Staff Reports – Program/Project updates 1. Food/Ag Program – Joel Bertolino 2. Revolving Loan Fund – Nan Knight 3. Economic Development/ CRDC – Gaurav Thakur 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 May 15, 2025- Sweet Grass County Big Timber, MT Adjourn Chair, All Chair, All Hauge/Knight Bertolino Bertolino Knight Thakur Lastusky Roe et al Information Action Information Action Information Information Information Information Information Information Information 32 Page 2 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: Be thinking about strengths and weaknesses of your community or our region . Thank you!  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: ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ 33 Page 3 1:00 pm 2:30 PM Meeting Called to Order Pledge of Allegiance, Introduction of Members and Guests Review Board Minutes Congressional Updates Tory Kolkhorst (Sen. Daines) Zoey Stroop (Congressman Downing) Wesley DeGiulio (Sen. Sheehy Treasurer/Financial Reports 4. Treasurer Update 5. RC&D Financials 6. RLF Financials Constitution Bylaws Nominations for Exec Committee Staff Reports – Program/Project updates 5. Food/Ag Program – Joel Bertolino 6. Revolving Loan Fund – Nan Knight 7. Economic Development/ CRDC – Gaurav Thakur 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 March 20, 2025- Big Horn County Building Hardin, MT Adjourn Chair, All Chair, All Hauge/Knight Bertolino Chair Bertolino Knight Thakur Lastusky Roe et al Information Action Information Action Action Action Information Information Information Information Information Information 34 Page 4 Beartooth RC&D Board Meeting Minutes January 16, 2025 Members Present: Joel Bertolino, BRCD Gaurav Thakur, BRCD Nan Knight, BRCD Myrna Lastusky, BRCD Tina Toyne, City of Hardin Economic Development Director Wes DeGuilio, Constituent Liaison & Veterans’ Representative, Sen. Sheehy’s Office Jeremy Dewell, Military Liaison, Senator Daines’ Office Will Boone, District Director for Congressman Troy Downing Tory Kolkhorst, Senator Daines’ Office Zoey Stroop, Congressman Troy Downing’s Office Commissioner John Ostlund, Yellowstone County Commissioner Mike Waters, Yellowstone County Kevin Mitchem, Sibanye-Stillwater Mine Lorene Hintz, SBDC Kayla Vokral, SBDC J.B. Farley, AgriOrganics Jeremy Dewell, Military Liaison, Senator Daines’ Office (in for Tory Kolkhorst) Danny Choriki, Ubet Post Bob VanOosten, Stillwater Conservation District Commissioner Steve Riveland, Stillwater County Commissioner Scott Miller, Carbon County Dan Lowe, Big Horn County Conservation District Members on Zoom/Phone: Ryan VanBallegooyen Holly Higgins, First Interstate Bank of Hardin Kurt Markegard, City of Laurel Meeting Called to Order: Ryan Van Ballegooyen called the meeting to order. Pledge of Allegiance, Introduction of Members and Guests Review November Board Minutes (Action): Danny motioned to approve. Kayla seconded. Motion carried. Congressional Updates: Tory Kolkhorst, Sen. Daines’ Office:  119th Congress under way  Sen. Serving on Senate Committees for Foreign Relations, Finance, Indian Affairs, and Energy & Natural Resources 35 Page 5 Zoey Stroop, Congressman Downing’s Office:  Serving on Small Business and Financial Services committees  Yesterday he was appointed to Digital Assets, Financial Technology, and AI subcommittee, US Capital Markets, and Housing and Insurance Subcommittees  Co-sponsored several bills already Wes DeGiulio, Sen. Sheehy’s Office:  Very optimistic for the future, potential to get a lot done  Sen. Sheehy is working on a lot of wildland fire legislation. He has a lot of experience in this area, of course. Treasurer/Financial reports: Nan Knight  P. 12 shows where the books are sitting.  We currently have 20 loans of $1.7 million. Sweet Grass had one paid off in November and consolidated 2 loans into one in Stillwater.  Page 13 has comparison of 2022-2025 budgets and explained a few of the columns.  In October Beartooth received $500K from State in grant money to loan out, and then we matched it in an application for $750K IRP loan funds. We have $1.25 million available for lending.  Oldest loan in Carbon County just paid off; been with us since 2005.  Tina motioned to approve; Lorene seconded. Motion carried. Constitutional By-laws (Joel)  Joel passed around some copies; no changes since November meeting when they were presented. No one contacted him with suggestions. Only real change is to eliminate the term limits.  Kayla motioned to accept the Constitutional By-laws as presented; Danny seconded. Motion carried. Nominations for Executive Committee:  No nominations were submitted or received prior to the meeting. All Executive Committee members are willing to stay for another year.  John Ostlund moved to keep the Executive Committee as is; Tina seconded. Motion carried. Staff Reports – Program/Project Updates Joel – Food and Ag  5 GTA are working on second-round applications o Derek Eaton – CutCraft – uses AI technology to arrange for animals to go to a processing plant, cut, wrapped to each customer’s specifications o Samurai Sue’s – Red Lodge. Uses local flour, grains, etc. for her business and is hoping to expand her processing capabilities. o Greycliff Mill – want to develop small smoking and meat processing system; applying for equipment needed. We wrote a Business Enterprise Grant that gives them funding to work with MSU Food Lab on recipes for snack sticks, jerky, etc. 36 Page 6 o Farm Box – Joliet; Justin Dye is a one-man farmers market; he markets local producers’ food around the region and also on Facebook. Looking to increase his ability to do this. o Marble Table – assisting SBDC on that one  Rodi Farm – Laurel; might be assisting on reapplying for a VAPG app  Montana Outlaw BBQ (Ty Hamilton) – took a tour of his business and hoping to do a GTA app with him next year as well as a possible loan through Beartooth. Lots of great seasonings and sauces. o He’s also offering cooking classes and sells locally raised meats like Blue Creek Marbled Meat. Nan – Brownfields Program  Completed a Phase II on the old Red Lodge Memorial Hospital  Jan. 23rd will be a housing community outreach meeting and will also update what is happening with Brownfields.  Completed Phase I on Roberts site for affordable housing  Will be doing a Phase II with ABCA for Pryor High School  Hope to do a tank pull in Garryowen at old gas station  If there are other potential contaminated properties, let us know. Cannot help in City of Billings since BSED has their own Brownfields Program. But we can conduct assessments outside of the city limits.  Awaiting word on the Brownfields RLF application we submitted in November. Gaurav – Economic Development  Big Horn County – Housing Needs Assessment Study (support of Tina/County) o New EDD at BHC has helped to boost the numbers of surveys up to 400 o Gaurav and Tina attended Christmas Bazaar at Crow Agency for outreach. They were able to speak with many tribal members to better understand their housing needs.  City of Hardin – Economic Development Strategy o Partnered with Tina Toyne & Ayres on in-depth interview with downtown businesses and stakeholders.  City of Big Timber – MAP EJ Grant application o Submitted MAP EJ application on behalf of the City of Big Timber o Grant would be for construction of an ADA-compliant bathroom and commercial kitchen for their existing civic center/emergency shelter  City of Laurel o Invited by Laurel Small Business Alliance to present to the Small Business Community about Beartooth RC&D’s service offerings. o We would be happy to present to other groups in communities around our region. o Gaurav will represent Beartooth & actively participate in the LURA (Laurel Urban Renewal Agency) monthly meetings.  RBDG grant application to create a regional online business directory and resource library o Gaurav is applying to USDA’s RBDG program due Feb. 28th in hopes of increasing business visibility, continuous engagement and communication and resource accessibility. o Want to restructure our website too and create a two-way communication engagement with our small businesses. 37 Page 7 Myrna – Project Manager/Operations Support  Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) with City of Hardin: We have loved working with Tina, & she is doing so much great work in Hardin. Gaurav has been a big help in assisting on a couple of her projects over there.  RCDI with Red Lodge Area Community Foundation (RLACF/Angela Getchell, Workforce Housing Manager) – so many great things happening in Carbon County with housing. o We presented at a Roberts School Board meeting last night (and have been in talks with Bridger and Red Lodge Schools, also) regarding a model for teacher housing where the school pays a small monthly amount to maintain “first right of refusal” on one or more units. Units will remain affordable through partnership with Trust Montana & rents will fall under HUD guidelines.  RCAC (Rural Community Assistance Corporation) Grant in Columbus o December: Small group (Value Chain) meetings to discuss plans for each group (Infrastructure, Housing, Youth, Downtown Beautification, and Tourism & Recreation). o 4th ROCE (Recharge Our Community’s Economy) Workshop was on Mon, Jan. 13th. o Monthly small group meetings will continue as we work to make goals a reality for 2+ years.  Commissioner Miller asked about the Teacher Housing model and who will own it because the County doesn’t want the government to own houses; they want commerce/the country to work it out. o Trust Montana will own and control the property – they are responsible for the rentals, repairs, etc.  Danny Choriki asked if the school is basically in the middle between Trust Montana and the local real estate market? o Not exactly. For example, HUD sets the income limits and eligibility, which most teachers in Carbon County meet. So if the rent is set at $1293/month, the school would pay $300/month for that first right of refusal. That brings the cost for a teacher who lives there to $993/month. The school continues to pay the $300 to maintain control. If there isn’t a teacher who wants to live in it, it would be more of an open market rental with a 6-month contract, so the school can get back in down the road. o Brad Caton, RLACF Program Director, came up with this unique model out of the Bridger Housing Study. Bridger residents were clear that they don’t want high-density housing, but they needed housing for teachers and workforce in their town, and they want control over who lives in these homes. Brad took their feedback and developed this model. We’ll see how it all turns out. Regional Roundup Commissioner Scott Miller, Carbon County  Housing – working with RLACF to support the whole county with housing, and they are  Cedarwood Villa will be torn down in phases for a new County government offices – sheriff’s dept, possibly a small detention center, offices for treasurer, clerk and recorder, commissioners. 38 Page 8 Commissioner Steve Riveland, Stillwater County  Law and Justice Center is on hold  Just completed $4.2 million elevator in courthouse to be ADA-compliant Kayla Vokral, SBDC  A LOT of new businesses getting started and very busy lately. Lots of cool new ventures will hopefully be coming to Yellowstone County.  Partnering with Joel on several projects and Nan on some funding projects.  2025 Training Calendar is up on the website. QuickBooks trainings will be presented in multiple counties.  Profit Mastery, Marketing workshops will also be offered around the region.  Working on quarterly meetings with different industries to connect different businesses to have conversations with each other.  Kayla passed around copies of the Economic Pulse publication.  Lorene celebrated 20 years with SBDC and spent 2 different days celebrating her accomplishments. o She has helped businesses receive over $71 million in funding! o 10,000 clients served!! o Her job creation was also outstanding.  Steve Arveschoug is retiring in April and are in middle of Executive Director search. Hope to bring 2-3 candidates into the Billings area the first week of February. Lorene Hintz, SBDC  Kayla is in the Yellowstone Valley Woman Magazine January edition for her work on The Vault podcast! The podcast is marketing the entire community, not just BSED.  Equitable Lending Leaders cohort – people doing a study to see how to make funding better for the Native community.  Had some workshops in Columbus and Laurel that were very well attended. Many of their workshop attendees have been affected by mine layoffs.  Space2Place grant is open here in Yellowstone County. Dan Lowe, Big Horn County Conservation District  Dan told one of his great stories with a lesson to it.  Hardin airport had a couple of hangars they didn’t know what to do with, and the Big Horn Conservation District said they would be able to use them.  On Conservation District board, weed district board, city planning board, Beartooth board . . . very important to help get our message out through communication from our board members and the community.  Contracts for 2 check stations – did 90,000 boat checks last year between them.  Thank you for letting me part of this board! Tina Toyne, City of Hardin Economic Development Director  County Housing Needs Assessment will wrap up in early March 39 Page 9  Put out RFP for Infill and Redevelopment last fall and didn’t get any proposals, but we have a few coming in by the end of this month.  Mary Slattery of Becker Hotel agreed to do a PAR of her hotel, so working on that RFQ process and will be selecting a firm shortly.  Completed Pilot Tourism Grant application again on Dec. 31st. Should hear back in early March. No matter what, we will work on growing our Tourism sector. Danny Choriki, Ubet Post  Tip Your Hat Tuesdays – friendlier community  Jan. 30th is standard day for all municipalities to count the number of homeless  2nd time in the last 3 years the City asked a professional police and fire department management consultant company to come in. This is a follow-up to a report done a couple years ago. o Crime is coming down a bit, but still above national and state average. o One of biggest wins is Community Service Officer – someone who does lower level tasks that doesn’t require a sworn officer to do. This has helped greatly to take load off officers. o Budget process – right now it goes through 4 levels of approval. So they moved budget authority down to save some paperwork and time. o Huge need for better data systems – will likely be a serious Council discussion on this soon. Bob Van Oosten, Stillwater Conservation District  Received money from federal government at NRCS (EWP – Emergency Watershed Protection) to help Stillwater and Carbon Counties with effects of 2022 Flood. o Stillwater is done and signed off on. o Carbon is done, but Fromberg’s paperwork is not completed (waiting on info from engineers).  Scott Miller said the Fromberg Mayor just resigned. Terry Feller is the new mayor – good guy who has lived there a long time. New clerk, also. o There is money available for people in Ag for irrigation headgates, etc.  Sponsoring a Forest Service grant for East Rosebud area that was flooded so badly. In final stages of releasing the proposals to the public for bids. $5 million grant.  Danny asked about a Watershed Organization – Bob said it is helpful in obtaining grants. Stillwater has a Watershed organization. Mike Penfold is looking into it in Yellowstone. Commissioner John Ostlund, Yellowstone County  Jail addition started as $6 million project and will end up at $8 million or more. But it is going well.  Moving out of Stillwater Building into Miller Building that will be the new County Administration building.  Building an outdoor arena at the Metra.  Finishing up Jail Study in the next month. Kevin Mitchem, Sibanye-Stillwater Mine  Last few months have been very challenging.  Metal prices have stabilized but are still low. 40 Page 10  Mining is a family business, and the people we work with are our family. Tough to watch 650 family members be let go. Has an impact on the entire team. o West side of Stillwater Mine has been put on care and maintenance; mining the east side. o East Boulder was hit but not as much  Reset of the operation – need to get facilities profitable again. Meeting with employees and telling them the direction we are going with the hope of getting back to full operation as soon as possible.  Many people are doing different duties, but thankful to have a job.  Tory asked about laid off employees getting jobs back at some point. o Have an hourly side (union) and salary side (non-union). If jobs come back, those will go to individuals within the union. Not much hiring is happening right now. Just working to stabilize the company. o Focused on our own employees vs. contracted employees. o People are retaining vehicles longer than they used to (most palladium is used in catalytic converters). COVID had an impact. Russia providing a lot of the supply right now. Kurt Markegard, City of Laurel  Planning for Love’s Truck Stop west of Laurel – will be hiring 50-60 employees for that (24-7 hours, 365 days).  Fiberglass Structures is closing up shop (under different name now) and moving back to Texas. Big loss for the community. Just in solid waste fees will lose $10-15,000 per year. 20-40 employees. o Ryan V. will be in touch to talk with Kurt about assisting. Holly Higgins, First Interstate Bank  Not much new has happened – Dollar General just opened  Hardin Primary Schools – getting books out to K-3 students Next meeting is in Hardin on March 20, 2025 in the Big Horn County building. Meeting adjourned at 2:28 pm. 41 Page 11 Revolving Loan Fund Books- December 2024 Loan Client Review County # of loans $ Loan Balances Big Horn 2 $ 190,596.65 Stillwater 1 $ 287,000.00 Yellowstone 13 $ 916,597.67 Carbon 3 $ 333,986.17 Sweet Grass 1 $ 60,785.70 Total: 20 $ 1,788,966.19  One loan paid off in Sweetgrass.  One consolidation loan in Stillwater. Bank Balances as of December 31, 2024 Total available for lending Bank of Joliet- RMAP $ 155,171.60 $ 155,171.60 $250,000 (still waiting to be drawn down) Bank of Joliet – RMAP LOAN LOSS $ 8,015.08 $ 0.00 Bank of Joliet EDA $ 20,861.78 $ 20,861.78 Bank of Joliet-CDBG $ 169,959.64 $ 169,959.64 Bank of Joliet- IRP $ 724,943.52 $ 724,943.52 Bank of Joliet-Fromberg $ 31,619.76 $ 31,619.76 Available: $ 1,102,556.33 (RMAP waiting to be drawn down) $ 250,000.00 (IRP and BSED waiting to be drawn down) $ 1,035,000.00 $ 2,387,556.33 Restricted Accounts Principal amounts paid back FIB – SSBCI 2.0 $ 148,621.00 $ 6,416.44 BOJ- SSBCI 2.0 $ 79,651.50 $ 10,579.89 New funded = $1.25 million ($750K New IRP + $500K BSED Grant) Loan amount: $750,000 New IRP $215,000 Drawn down Grant amount: $500,000 BSED $ 71,500.00 Drawn down 42 Page 12 INCOME 2022 Budget Actual 2023 Income 2023 Budget Actual 2024 Income 2024 Budget Actual 2025 Income 2025 Budget Actual AG-FOOD AND AG CENTER 45,000 70,057 AG-FOOD AND AG CE 45,000 48,706 AG-FOOD AND AG CENTER 60,000 61,636 AG-FOOD AND AG CENTER 60,000 AG-MCDC 500 0 Specialty Crop Block 35,000 31,286 Specialty Crop Block 58,166 56,006 Specialty Crop Block 58,166 BOARD - EDA SPONSOR DUES 56,979 56,844 BOARD - EDA SPONSO 56,979 55,711 FARM TO SCHOOL 1,200 3,750 FARM TO SCHOOL 1,200 BOARD-INTEREST INCOME 400 845 BOARD-INTEREST INC 400 736 REAP 5,000 25,180 REAP 5,000 BOARD-FOUNDATION MONEY 3,300 3,830 BOARD-FOUNDATION 3,300 3,641 BOARD - EDA SPONSOR DUE 56,979 56,023 BOARD - EDA SPONSOR DUES 56,979 RLF-STAFF REIMBURSE 18,000 0 RLF-STAFF REIMBURS 15,000 5,066 BOARD-INTEREST INCOME 750 450 BOARD-INTEREST INCOME 450 RLF-ORIG FEES 7,500 6,152 RLF-ORIG FEES 5,000 2,764 BOARD-FOUNDATION MONEY 3,300 3,676 BOARD-FOUNDATION MONEY 3,300 CRDC 71,000 71,844 CRDC 71,000 71,844 RLF-STAFF REIMBURSE 15,000 DEQ-EJ 36,500 CGWG/ fuels EDA - GRANT 70,000 70,000 RLF-ORIG FEES 5,000 5,787 RLF-ORIG FEES 5,000 MISC GRANT ADMIN $ 12,750 BSTF ADMIN $ 4,000 RLF- RMAP 12,500 15,572 RLF- RMAP 12,500 EDA - GRANT 70,000 70,000 RCDI ( Big Horn) 2,500 2,444 BROWNFIELD 19,250 11,932 BROWNFIELD 19,250 SW-GRANT RCDI (Red Lodge) 4,000 1,592 CRDC 50,000 79,663 CRDC 82,269 BSTF Pass- Through 115,634 EDA - GRANT 70,000 70,000 EDA - GRANT 70,000 EDA-CARES ACT 100,000 other Admin 2,500 BSTF ADMIN $ 1,950 1,950 RCAC 25,000 Pass- Through 73,102 RCAC 25,000 7,465 RCDI( Big Horn) 2,800 Total Income 285,429 452,674 312,179 411,921 RCDI ( Big Horn) 2,800 2,483 RCDI ( Red Lodge) 2,800 RCDI (Red Lodge) 2,800 1,749 Pass- Through 86,881 Pass- Through Restricted SSBCI & Loan Interest 60,420 Restricted SSBCI & Loan Interest 389,695 550,623 441,214 0 EXPENSES Expenses for 2023 Expenses for 2024 Expenses for 2025 TOTAL STAFF EXPENSE 231,429 233,496 TOTAL STAFF EXPEN 244,441 241,301 TOTAL STAFF EXPENSE 245,441 263,548 TOTAL STAFF EXPENSE 275,000 COMMUNICATIONS 4,500 7,167 COMMUNICATIONS 7,000 7,300 COMMUNICATIONS 9,000 12,228 COMMUNICATIONS 12,000 EQUIPMENT & VEHICLE 4,500 9,581 EQUIPMENT & VEHICL 6,000 5,370 EQUIPMENT & VEHICLE 7,000 7,403 EQUIPMENT & VEHICLE 9,000 CONTRACTUAL 21,100 195,509 CONTRACTUAL 25,000 126,784 CONTRACTUAL 30,000 118,057 CONTRACTUAL 15,000 SUPPLIES 5,000 10,559 SUPPLIES 7,000 14,853 SUPPLIES 8,000 19,484 SUPPLIES 10,000 TRAVEL 7,800 3,756 TRAVEL 5,500 9,838 TRAVEL 15,500 7,512 TRAVEL 20,000 OTHER 10,000 12,515 OTHER 11,500 9,265 OTHER 13,500 12,207 INSURANCES 8,000 RENT/UTILITIES 12,500 Restricted SSBCI & Loan Interest 60,420 FY 24 Audit 28,000 Total Expense for the year Restricted SSBCI & Loan Interest 284,329 472,583 EXPENSE TOTAL 306,441 414,711 EXPENSE TOTAL 328,441 500,859 EXPENSE TOTAL 389,500 0 Net Income 1,100 -19,910 5,738 -2,789 61,254 49,764 51,714 0 43 Page 13 Revolving Loan Fund Books ending - February 28, 2025 Loan Client Review County # of loans $ Loan Balances Big Horn 2 $ 189,199.70 Stillwater 1 $ 287,000.00 Yellowstone 13 $ 905,503.13 Carbon 3 $ 332,090.10 Sweet Grass 1 $ 60,046.19 Total: 20 $ 1,773,839.12  Closed one new loan in March.  Interest in RLF has been strong, with noticeable activity among Small Business and startups. Bank Balances as of February 28,2025 Total available for lending Bank of Joliet- RMAP $ 158,598.87 $ 158,598.87 $250,000 (still waiting to be drawn down) Bank of Joliet – RMAP LOAN LOSS $ 8,015.08 $ 0.00 Bank of Joliet EDA $ 21,343.64 $ 21,343.64 Bank of Joliet-CDBG $ 186,924.59 $ 186,924.59 Bank of Joliet- IRP $ 730,976.78 $ 324,976.78 Bank of Joliet-Fromberg $ 52,639.45 $ 52,639.45 Available: $ 744,483.33 (RMAP waiting to be drawn down) $ 250,000.00 (IRP and BSED waiting to be drawn down) $ 873,500.00 $ 1,867,983.33 Restricted Accounts Principal amounts paid back FIB – SSBCI 2.0 $ 148,621.00 $ 13,686.97 BOJ- SSBCI 2.0 $ 79,651.50 $ 11,981.21 Drawn drown New funded: Loans amount: $750,000 Grant amount: $500,000 New IRP- $215,000.00 BSED- $ 71,500.00 New IRP- $ 67,500.00 BSED- $ 22,500.00 44 Page 14 March 2025 Beartooth Books 2025 Income Budget Actual AG-FOOD AND AG CENTER 60,000 Specialty Crop Block 58,166 FARM TO SCHOOL 1,200 REAP 5,000 BOARD - EDA SPONSOR DUES 56,979 43,136 BOARD-INTEREST INCOME 450 BOARD-FOUNDATION MONEY 3,300 DEQ-EJ 36,500 RLF-ORIG FEES 5,000 RLF- RMAP 12,500 BROWNFIELD 19,250 5,258 CRDC 82,269 20,567 EDA - GRANT 70,000 17,500 RCAC 25,000 5,115 RCDI( Big Horn)2,800 3,002 RCDI ( Red Lodge) 2,800 1,475 Pass- Through 41,577 Restricted SSBCI & Loan Interest 22,443 441,214 160,073 Expenses for 2025 TOTAL STAFF EXPENSE 275,000 48,243 COMMUNICATIONS 12,000 849 EQUIPMENT & VEHICLE 9,000 1,540 CONTRACTUAL 15,000 15,061 SUPPLIES 10,000 3,058 TRAVEL 20,000 862 INSURANCES 8,000 649 RENT/UTILITIES 12,500 500 FY 24 Audit 28,000 Restricted SSBCI & Loan Interest EXPENSE TOTAL 389,500 70,761 51,714 89,312 Statement Ending: 02/28/2025 Checking Account:$164,176.89 unrestricted cash Restricted cash in checking for CGWG & JOJ $12,065.65 $152,111.24 Savings Account:$65,812.19 Building Account:$4,488.53 2025 45 Page 15 Beartooth RC&D Staff Project Update March 2025 FOOD AND AG DEVELOPMENT CENTER PROJECTS Beartooth FADC Beartooth FADC assisted some new clients and attended legislative updates and the GTA grant reviews. Beartooth FADC has continued to work with partners to do outreach to businesses in our region. Beartooth FADC has assisted 5 applicants with Growth Through Ag Grants and one VAPG grant. Growth Through Ag Projects and USDA Projects Derek Eaton Location- Billings, MT Contact- Derek Eaton Derek was raised on a family cattle ranch and has been working on utilizing AI technology to allow those interested in purchasing livestock from producers to be processed an app for smart phones that would allow producers to list livestock for sale live and allow the customer to choose a transportation option to a local processor and have the finished product shipped to them. Beartooth FADC assisted Derek in developing a GTA application for the development of this opportunity. Beartooth FADC also assisted Cut Craft with developing a Biz Builder application for training and funds through a new grant opportunity from the Department of Ag unfortunately their application was not chosen. Rodi Farms Location- Laurel, MT Contact-Carah Ronan Beartooth has also assisted the business with a GTA application for a delivery vehicle and cooler for their new processing and aggregation location and assisted in re applying for the USDA Value Added Producer Grant. Smurai Sue’s Location- Red Lodge, MT Contact-Asano Otsu Asano started her small bakery and ready-to-eat meals in 2018 initially selling them in the Moon Lake Market attached to her processing location. The business now markets her bread and pizza crusts as well as ready to eat pizzas at the local grocery store and online orders. She and her husband are now building a larger new location to expand her business and Beartooth FADC has worked with her to develop a GTA Business and Marketing Grant and an RFSI grant for expanding her online presence and sales and purchasing equipment. She received $8,000 in Business and Marketing Grant funds from the Department of Agriculture; she is now has received the full GTA grant request for equipment to finish her new processing location. 46 Page 16 Greycliff Mill Location- Big Timber, MT Contact- Micah Bowden The Greycliff Mill near Greycliff, MT is developing their own meat processing location for their Cattle and Buffalo on their small ag operation. Beartooth FADC assisted Micah Bowden in developing a GTA application for a smoker to be used in their small processing operation, Beartooth is now assisting them with a full GTA application. Farm Box Location- Joliet, MT Contact- Justin Dye Farm Box markets local foods with a list of locations they set up and sell directly to consumers an d they market local foods through their active Facebook Page. Beartooth FADC has assisted them in developing a GTA application for funding to expand their business promoting local foods, they are now completing the full GTA application. 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 RC&D assisted Reuben with developing a video of his business for marketing and researching potential funding opportunities for his greenhouse expansion, the department of Agriculture will be releasing his video on their Facebook page in April. Becky’s Berries Location- Absarokee, MT Contact- Becky Stahl Beartooth FADC has been assisting Becky Stahl with her new line of mustards, she has developed a new label and is now marketing them. Working with MMEC we have helped Becky take a tour of Kings Cupboard in Red Lodge to see his equipment, some of which she may be investing in at some point in the future. She and her son-in-law Shane worked with Beartooth FADC on developing a GTA grant. They are still deciding on whether they will be looking at building a new location. 47 Page 17 S Ranch Meats Location- Custer, MT Contact- Hannah Knutson S ranch meats is a family owned and operated beef business. The ranch operates a 6000 head ranch and developed a USDA meat processing plant in Hardin, MT. They have developed their own line of packaged meats sold at local restaurants and through Facebook and word of mouth marketing. Beartooth FADC has been working with USDA VAPG specialists to assist the business in applying for $250,000.00 in operating funds to expand their direct-to-consumer branded beef business. They have received the VAPG funding for the 2024 year. Beartooth FADC staff with MMEC representatives visited their facility in September and discussed other potential funding opportunities. Rebel Head Kombucha Location-Billings, MT Contact- Cassandra Harr Cassandra has been making small batches of Kombucha in her location in Billings, MT but has needed certified alcohol testing from a qualified lab, she now has that to complete the necessary state licensing then she will begin growing her business, Beartooth FADC has discussed funding opportunities for her business including GTA that she may take advantage of in the future, MMEC toured the facility and Beartooth FADC will continue to work with the business. On Going Projects Mountain View Hutterite Colony Location- Acton, MT Contact- Ike Kleinsasser The mountain view colony has one of the largest egg production operations in the state they supply eggs to the Billings area Walmart’s, Albertsons and other retail stores. Beartooth FADC assisted them ten years ago with a Growth Through Ag Grant for a delivery truck and now they are needing a new egg processing and packaging equipment that would allow them to expand their output by more than double. They were looking at a GTA and are working with MMEC on a low interest automation loan but are now looking for lower cost improvements we will continue to visit to see if they will be purchasing an egg processing syste m Stovall Ranch and Yellowstone Feeders Location- Yellowstone County Contact- Turk Stovall The Stovall family are generational beef producers in Yellowstone County they have grown their operation to include two sizeable Feedlots and sell Certified Angus Beef as well as having their own branded beef products sold direct to consumer. Beartooth FADC talked with the business about the potential use of the REAP program for their expansion plans as well as USDA VAPG for their direct beef sales business. They are also looking at the USDA Supply Chain Guaranteed Loans. Beartooth assisted this business with an ARPA Ag 48 Page 18 Infrastructure grant and are now working with them on a REAP application for solar panels and an anaerobic digester on a new feedlot expansion. Speedy and Flo’s Sweet Corn Location- Hardin, MT Contact-Flo Ramirez Beartooth FADC worked with Flo Ramirez and his wife; they started growing fresh produce and sweet corn for local sales over ten years ago 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 their fresh produce at locations in Hardin, several in Billings, Joliet, Miles City and Absarokee, Miles City as well as in northern Wyoming. Beartooth FADC assisted Flo in developing his application for the Business and Marketing Grant for new bags for the corn that have their logo and Facebook i nformation on them. After purchasing the new bags Beartooth FADC assisted Flo in applying for a GTA program for the development of their greenhouse and retail location, they were successful and will receive $50,000.00 for this project. The new greenhouse is completed and will be utilized next year to grow more produce and increase the profitability of their family business, building a great business in Hardin, MT. Beartooth FADC continues to stay in contact with Flo to discuss new potential opportunities for the business and assists them with their reporting. MT Outlaw Bar B Que Location- Billings, MT Contact- Ty Hamilton Ty Hamilton and his dad have started a Bar B Que catering and retail business that sells everything bar b que in Billings and needed funding to complete their kitched allowing them to sell more take out bar b que at the location as well as another commercial smoker. Beartooth staff worked with them on an RLF loan and will work with them on a potential Growth Through AG grant as they use local Beef for their catering and take out. Metrapark Location- Billings, MT Contact- Tim Goodrich Beartooth FADC are working with Tim Goodrich of Metrapark in Billings on developing an area that will feature Montana crops for education and visitors to learn more about montana commodities. Beartooth also is assisting Tim in developing a relationship with Montana Department of Ag Staff that is coordinating the food and ag show hoping to have it scheduled at the Metra in the future. 49 Page 19 Top Notch Meats Location- Billings, MT Contact Kyler Thompson Kyler Thompson purchased what used to be Schaeffer meats in Billings two years ago and has refurbished some parts of the business and developed a strong customer base. They are now looking for a new location and may be interested in grants and loans for equipment. Yellowstone Food Hub Location- Billings, MT Contact- Carrie Stokes Holst Yellowstone Valley Food Hub Received funding from the Rural Food Systems Grant through the Montana Department of Agriculture, and Beartooth FADC has been working with MMEC to assist them with transforming their space into and area that can accommodate the new coolers freezers and food processing equipment. Beartooth FADC has written a Business Enhancement Grant to pay for more MMEC time to design an efficient layout for the food processing part of their location. Carmel Cookie Waffle Location- Billings, MT Contact-Katie Edwards Carmel Cookie Waffle is a small business in Billings that utilizes some local ingredients and is in need of assistance with food safety training which we were able to utilize the BEP grant to pay MMEC staff Claude smith to do a two day HAACP training for the owners and the staff in Februrary. Grindy’s Cheese Balls Location- Billings, MT Contact- Cindy Jacobs Beartooth has assisted Greg and Cindy for a couple of years now first with financing through our RLF and recently MMEC wanted some funding to assist them in analyzing their process to determine areas that could be automated, allowing the business to continue to grow their processing and sales. Beartooth FADC developed a BEP application that was approved, and the funding will be used to pay MMEC to work with Grindy’s to determine what pieces of equipment could be utilized to increase their productivity. Beartooth Initial Contact/ Outreach Top Notch Meats- Billings Carmel Cookie Waffle- Billings 50 Page 20 Beartooth Economic Development Director Report Big Horn County – Housing Needs Assessment Study  Final Report presented to the County Commissioners on March 6th City of Hardin – Economic Development Strategy  Partnered with Tina Toyne and Consultant (Ayres Associates) on the In-Depth Interviews with Community Members and Business owners for stakeholder meeting sessions. City of Big Timber - MAP EJ Grants  Thriving Communities Grantmaking – Big Timber Civic Centre Upgrades - Declined City of Laurel  Officially appointed to Laurel Urban Renewal Agency (LURA) Board in Advisory capacity Reporting (State and Federal)  EDA - Partnership Planning Program FY2025 Funding Application  CRDC - 2025 Annual Work Plan Coal Board Application  Lodge Grass – Backhoe and Excavator o Application returned due to missing signature o Staff Comments - According to State Accounting, funding the City of Hardin to then give funds to Lodge Grass would be a violation of the no-pay order. o The application will be presented to the Coal Board for the upcoming draw Montana – ORE – Opportunities in Rural Economies Loan Program  One Health - New Office Space Proposal for Creating a Regional Online Business Directory and Resource Library  Application to USDA’s RBDG Program to be submitted in the next draw  Goals: Increase Business Visibility, Continuous Engagement and Communication and Resource Accessibility 51 Page 21 Project Manager/Executive Assistant Report – March 20, 2025 USDA Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) with Red Lodge Area Community Foundation (RLACF/Angela Getchell, Workforce Housing Manager)  Coordinating a Visioning Activity with the Red Lodge Urban Renewal Agency and Kansas State University-Technical Assistance Brownfields team.  Beartooth, Angela, & developer Tom Fischer met with community leaders to discuss possibilities for the old hospital. The visioning activity will also move this forward.  Continue to work with several Carbon schools on a “First Right of Refusal” teacher housing model. Units will remain affordable through a partnership with Trust Montana. o Bridger School District is interested in putting a couple homes on a school lot. o Roberts School Board approved moving forward on a contract; Roberts Community Foundation has pledged their support to pay the monthly fee. o Plan to speak with Fromberg next – thanks to Commissioner Miller for his support and connecting us to Fromberg leadership! USDA RCDI (Rural Community Development Initiative) with City of Hardin (Tina Toyne, EDD)  Tina has taken advantage of several training opportunities this quarter, including a few courses with IEDC (International Economic Development Council).  Tina & the City are working on multiple grant projects (housing study, infill & redevelopment, Hotel Becker, EcDev Strategy, etc). Tina can give you the latest exciting news.  This grant will wrap up on March 31st, but work will continue with the great partnerships we have formed in Hardin and Big Horn County. This has been a positive 3-year effort for Hardin and Big Horn County (resulting in not one but TWO excellent EcDev Directors in Tina Toyne and Lawrence Killsback), but it has also been a blessing for Beartooth in our work in Big Horn. Additionally, all the other State and Federal agencies are more tuned in to the needs and possibilities throughout the County. RCAC (Rural Community Assistance Corporation) Grant in Columbus  Monthly small group meetings will continue as we work to make goals a reality for 2+ years. A few projects in the early planning stages include a couple of murals, an interactive map for County tourism, possible rec center, housing efforts, and forming a Downtown Business Association. We are also providing support and TA to the Stillwater County Chamber as they are navigating recent budget cuts.  Attending Governor’s Conference on Tourism April 27-29 as part of this grant. Miscellaneous  Beartooth is also assisting Carbon County & Belfry Senior Center to find/build/renovate/fund a new Center.  Appreciation to our awesome staff for their extra efforts while I have been in AZ. Returning to the beautiful Big Sky on April 4th! 52 Page 22 Frequently Used Acronyms BIA – Bureau of Indian Affairs BLM – Bureau of Land Management 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 53 File Attachments for Item: 3. Fire Department Monthly Report - February 2025. 54 For the Month of: Number of Calls Number of Hours 5 0 29 0 3 5 25 22 0 89 795 Training 742 1537 Laurel Fire Department February Announcements: Increase of calls do to the cold weather and snow. PD Assist. Other Activities Total Hours for the Month Public Assist Medical Assist. Severity Staffing Total Wildland Fire Alarm Extrication Other Rescue Structure Fire/Car Fire Call Type DEFINITIONS Structure Firefighting A structure fire is a fire involving the structural components of various types of residential, commercial or industrial buildings. We carry out all levels of Structure Firefighting, including entry and attack, ventilation, salvage, overhaul, and investigations. Wildland Firefighting Wildfire,brush fire, bush fire, desert fire, forest fire, grass fire, hill fire, peat fire, vegetation fire, etc.. Extrications Rescue victims entrapped in automobiles, machinery, farm equipment, buildings, and trenches, etc.. Other Rescues Rope Rescue, Water Rescue, Ice Rescue. Alarms Respond to any false alarms or malfunctions. Other Calls EMS assist, industrial or aircraft firefighting, vehicle fires, hazmat, spills, public safety, investigations, gas leaks, carbon monoxide problems, etc.. Severity Staffing-Montana DNRC pays up to 8 firefighters to staff the station each day and respond as a Task Force to wildland fires within Yellowstone, Stillwater and Carbon Counties, as and when needed. They can also be called up to respond to fires anywhere in the Southern Zone areas. The 2 State-owned type 5 wildland engines assigned to Laurel are the ones primarily used for these calls. This has proven to be beneficial to Laurel as a means for a quick response to all incidents. 55 File Attachments for Item: 7. Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of March 11, 2025. 56 57 58 File Attachments for Item: 8. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of February 24, 2025. 59 60 File Attachments for Item: 9. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of March 10, 2025. 61 62 File Attachments for Item: 10. Emergency Services Committee Minutes of February 24, 2025. 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 File Attachments for Item: 11. Public Works Committee Minutes of February 18, 2025. 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 File Attachments for Item: 12. Public Works Committee Minutes of March 17, 2025. 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 File Attachments for Item: 13. Park Board Minutes of March 6, 2025. 91 Laurel Park Board Minutes for March 6, 2025. In attendance were Richard Klose, Phyllis Bromgard, Irv Wilke, Tom Canape, Paul Kober and Jon Rutt. Kurt Markegard was in attendance for the city. Renee Studiner was a visitor The meeting was called to order at 5:28 and Michelle Mize was in attendance for the Tree Board. Public Comment: Michele Mize said that Laurel is still a Tree City USA and Arbor Day will be scheduled for the Fall of 2025. 1. Minutes from February 6 meeting - Phyllis Bromgard made a motion and Richard Klose seconded, motion passed. New Business 2. Baseball Netting for Billie Riddle Splash Park – Tom Canape made a motion to spend $600 to purchase Netting. Richard Klose 2nd and the motion was approved. Old Business 3. Other Parks – List of repairs for playground equipment has been made and parts are ordered. 4. Riverside Campground/other items – Code enforcement checks the campground daily. The shower building demo and cleanup continues. 5. American Legion Building at Riverside Park – Security doors have been installed to further protect the contents. 6. Riverside Park/Lead Cleanup – Moving slowly and waiting for the Health Department to complete inspection. 7. Riverside Hall/Lions Club – Utilities have been transferred to the Lions Club. They want to insulate and continue to replace the windows. Discussion followed on the city helping with insulation and/or looking for grants to accomplish upgrades. Kurt brought up the CIP (Capital Improvement Projects). This needs to be updated to allow money to be spent on these types of projects. Kurt also brought up the Exxon Mobil penalty account has $283,000 available for projects in the CIP. 8. Merging with the Tree Board – Waiting on the City Attorney for a decision. 2 Ordinances need to be combined to make this possible and we will finish this at the next meeting. 9. Bathrooms at Billie Riddle Splash Park – The discussion was on using a prefab FW&P building to set on the site. These cost about $60,000 and need to be added to the CIP. Other Items Nothing to report April 3rd is the next meeting. Meeting adjourned at 6:28 92 File Attachments for Item: 14. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of January 23, 2024. 93 January 23, 2024 Minutes •Roll Call was taken to include Randy Hand, Shane Linse, Joseph Mutchler, Alan Kasemodel •Meeting Attendance: Jim Wise, Chase Brownlee, Justin Zindell, Craig Canfield, Don Schlegelmilch, Jim Schank, Brett McKenney, Doug Myers •Approval of Minutes of previous meeting. 11/28/2023 •Financial Update •Claims: All approved •Public Input: Doug Meyers presented a letter of concern in regards to how the Laurel Airport Authority is handling an eviction process of 2020 Fox Road. Brett McKenney, Don Schlegelmilch, and Jim Schank voiced the same concern in regards of 2020 Fox Road. Reports: KLJ Engineering-Master Plan Project Update, Grants update: We received a grant for $38,000.00 for Ceilometer and $36,600.00 from MT Aeronautics for Pavement Maintenance for 2024. Master plan is 95-98% completed, but will require further Billings for completion. Old Business: •Courtesy car contract with FBO was approved. A copy of insurance has been provided from the FBO. The insurance carrier will notify the LAA of policy cancelation. The LAA courtesy car is ready for delivery. •AWOS options, annual fees, FAA Grants; We received a grant for $38,000.00 for Ceilometer and $36,600.00 for Pavement Maintenance for 2024. KLJ Engineering for further investigate when and how the AWOS platform can be reconstructed to include electrical modifications. Other airports will be communicated with in regards to shared AWOS maintenance costs. •Airport Camera that MT Aeronautics will pay for is tabled until February meeting. •Windsock is up but lighting still needs electrical completed. May require further parts and troubleshooting. Tabled until April 2024 meeting. •Pick location and time slot on 2/8/2024: MSU Local Government-Dan Clark for training for “Roles and Responsibilities on a Board”-Time will be 9-3pm and looking to conduct meeting at the Laurel Golf Course. Laurel Airport Authority P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044 406-628-0172 94 •Runway lighting issues, need. Plan to fix. Randy and Craig/KLJ will investigate the VASI’s functionality. •Need to get passwords for website, email, and phone documented and received from resigned board member. •Outhouse at main gate will be knocked down and filled with sand this Spring. 4/6/2024 will be a day of Spring cleanup. •FAA is going to audit the Laurel Airport this Spring. Awaiting an inspection date from the FAA. •Airport needs to do a utility audit. Septic and utility locations will be located and documented this Spring. •SRE Building design ideas will be presented at the February meeting. Options will be other SRE building designs as well as General Aviation Terminal options. •Electrical box next to the Beacon will be removed on 4/6/2024 along with other items for Spring cleanup. •2024 Fox Road Issues and Updates. Need to have container painted, gate closed, and outdoor storage removed. A letter will be sent out an further communication attempts made with the occupant in regards to gate closure and a fence installed for airport security. New Business: •Jim Wise is voted and approved as new board member. Old Business: •2020 Fox Road eviction process was further discussed with owner and LAA. A motion was made and approved to rescind the June 27th eviction of 2020 Fox Road pending approval of a new lease. A motion was made and approved to create a lease within 30 days of January 23rd, 2024 to Brett Mckenney and Tom Boyce and made by the next board meeting for vote. A motion was made and approved that all individual attorney fees will be paid by each party. 2020 Fox Road will pay theirs, and the Laurel Airport Authority will pay ours. •Commercial activities in Non-Commercial hangers is resolved. A motion was created and approved to have this item removed from the agenda. Laurel Airport Authority P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044 406-628-0172 95 •Weed issues/Letters completed. Payments from 3 individuals are still owed for lease terms/ airport dues and leased farm ground. Currently in the process of collecting payment. •Order fireproof cabinet for airport leases is approved. Looking at options and tabled until February 2024 meeting. •Dave Gilner and Tom Prill are no longer interested in the hangar lot next to Musser’s and the lot is still available. New Business: •Motion was made and approved for task order for pavement Maintenance per KLJ •Motion was made and approved for a new NOTAM Call List. •Motion was made and approved to have locks changed on Pilot Shack and replace lock on Bulletin Board. •Motion was made and approved to adjourn meeting. Laurel Airport Authority P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044 406-628-0172 96 File Attachments for Item: 15. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of February 27, 2024. 97 February 27, 2024 Minutes •Roll Call was taken to include Randy Hand, Shane Linse, Joseph Mutchler, Alan Kasemodel, and Jim Wise •Meeting Attendance: Craig Canfield, Justin Zindell, Chase Brownlee, John Roberts, Jim Roberts, Will Metz •Approval of Minutes of previous meeting. 1/23/2024 •Financial Update •Claims: All approved •Public input on Non-agenda items: None •Public input on Agenda items: Jim and John Roberts updated information in regards to the July 13, 2024 Fly-In. Reports: KLJ Engineering-Master Plan Project Update &SRE/Terminal Building discussion. New Business: •Fly-In for July 13, 2024 discussed with the Montana Pilot’s Association. •$11,795.00 quote for asphalt repair from gate to chip seal area from Hardives approved. •Lease transfer for Rich/Donna Mckamy to Nicole Metz for 2210 Willis, 2211 Nicholas, and 2221 Nicholas approved. •Nicole Metz request for a new 20-year lease with 11-year renewal option for 2210 Willis, 2211 Nicholas, and 2221 Nicholas approved. •Request for Shane to discuss LAA lawsuit with Scott Green approved. •Will acquire a couple quotes for new airport sign. •Need to acquire hours and rate for coverage quote with MMA insurance. Motion to pursue workcomp approved. Laurel Airport Authority P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044 406-628-0172 98 Old Business: •Motion approved to NOT use electronic email exchanges in regard to airport business. •Motion approved to complete purchase of fire-proof file cabinet. •SRE/Terminal building design ideas tabled until June. •Reviewed past due lease payments. •2024 Fox Road issues reviewed. •2020 Fox Road lease changes approved. •2020 Fox Road sub-lease tabled to next meeting. •Motion was made and approved to adjourn meeting. Laurel Airport Authority P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044 406-628-0172 99 File Attachments for Item: 16. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of April 23, 2024. 100 April 23, 2024 Minutes •Roll Call was taken to include Randy Hand, Shane Linse, Joseph Mutchler, and Jim Wise •Meeting Attendance: Craig Canfield, Justin Zindell, Will Metz •Financial Update •Claims: Reviewed/Updated •Public input on Non-agenda items: None •Public input on Agenda items: None Old Business: •New Airport Entrance Sign: Still waiting on further bids for design and pricing. •Workman’s Comp coverage: Awaiting underwriters and will update next meeting. •Motion approved to complete AWOS install to include a couple thousand dollar expense increase. Motion approved to increase the monthly cost of the AWOS operation. •Wi-Fi cameras for the state have been requested to be put on the beacon tower. Will acquire a couple internet options for the operation of the cameras. •Motion approved to finalize the 2025 pavement upgrade with KLJ Engineering. •Past Due lease payments are down to 2 individuals on unpaid leases. •Scheduled a Clean Up Day/Work day for the Laurel Airport on May 20th. POC is Joe Mutchler. •2024 Fox Road Issue and updates: A letter will be sent to Weber to keep gate closed or to fence off the property. If a fence is not installed, one will be installed by the Laurel Airport and the cost will be forwarded to Weber. If the fence installation is not paid, the non-aeronautical lease will be terminated. •2020 Fox Road Aeronautical lease and sub lease approval will be updated from Scott Green Laurel Airport Authority P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044 406-628-0172 101 New Business: •Pavement Maintenance Bid Approved for American Road Maintenance for $319,514.75. •Lease transfer approved for the 2432 DeFrance-Duane Grosulak to Karina Buechler. •New Lease for Karina Buechler for 2432 DeFrance approved. •Tom and Laura Mutchler 50-year lease approved for 2347 Stahley •Doug Myers 50-year lease approved for 2420 Rathburn •Application for another courtesy car and insurance quote approved •Need to draft up language for past-due lease policy. Will have for next meeting. •Solid Rock Gate Company approved to conduct gate maintenance every 6 months and will install brush cover for $295.00. •Annual fire service contract with the City of Laurel approved. •Formal resolution approved for Chairman to pay monthly bills in the event a monthly board meeting is not conducted. •Liability insurance renewal approved for airport’s assets. •Unfair Economic Advantage Initiative for the LAA tabled to next meeting to include further verbiage. Board Member Initiatives: None. Meeting Adjourned. Laurel Airport Authority P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044 406-628-0172 102 File Attachments for Item: 17. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of May 28, 2024. 103 May 28, 2024 Minutes •Roll Call was taken to include Randy Hand, Shane Linse, Joseph Mutchler, and Jim Wise •Meeting Attendance: Justin Zindell, Will Metz, Jim Roberts, John Roberts, Brad Sinclair •Financial Update •Claims: Reviewed/Updated •Public input on Non-agenda items: None •Public input on Agenda items: None Reports: KLJ Engineering Old Business: •Fly-in Update: Will take place on 7/13/2024 at 8:00 am until the early afternoon. Motion was approved to order and pay for 5 porto-potties. •Motion for new airport entrance sign to be refreshed and updated to “Laurel Municipal Airport” at a cost of $1,600.00 approved. •Workman’s Comp coverage quote requested and awaiting for further information. •Motion approved to have WispWest Internet and static IP address installed for Wi-Fi Cameras •Still have two individuals that have past due lease payments •Application completed for additional courtesy car and insurance quote •Policy for past-due lease agreements will be updated at the next meeting. Joe Mutchler will draft a proposal. •Liability insurance Renewal will be updated at the next meeting. •Unfair Economic Advantage Initiative for the LAA will be tabled to New Business. •2024 Fox Road is awaiting and update from the attorney. •2020 Fox Road non-aeronautical lease awaiting update from attorney. Laurel Airport Authority P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044 406-628-0172 104 •2020 Fox Road sub-lease is awaiting non-aeronautical lease from the attorney. New Business: •FAA conducted an inspection on the airfield and found the temporary/permanent ag operation on the ramp must stop and contain the chemical spills. The operation must also request a new location and a commercial lease for the operation. Joe Mutchler will contact Jim Shock •The gate by 2020 Fox Road was found open during the inspection. KLJ Engineering will inquire if the LAA can request a grant for an automatic gate to be purchased and installed. A lock will be installed for the time being. Board Member Initiatives: None. Meeting Adjourned. Laurel Airport Authority P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044 406-628-0172 105 File Attachments for Item: 18. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of October 22, 2024. 106 October 22, 2024 Minutes •Roll Call was taken to include Randy Hand, Shane Linse, Joseph Mutchler, and Jim Wise •Meeting Attendance: Justin Zindell, Charlie Vance, Jim Schaak, Jacob Schneller, Sam Morris, Brad Sinclair, Braydon Sinclair •Financial Update •Claims: Reviewed/Updated/Awaiting Cosner as he was out of town •Public input on Non-agenda items: Sam Morris and the Rocky Mountain College Flight Team would like to have an open house meeting to address any issues with the flight team conducting practice operations on the Laurel Airport. •Public input on Agenda items: None Reports: KLJ Engineering Old Business: •Ceilometer needs to have a hand dug trench around concrete to finish the conduit run for the electrical. Motion made and approved for Shane Linse to fix dirt and concrete work for new conduit to finish the AWOS installation. •Workman’s Comp coverage- Will put a sign-in sheet at the SRE building to document the volunteer time for the workman’s comp. •Wi-Fi cameras from the state- Need volunteers to bury the conduit for the install. •Past Due lease from Heath Olson is still unpaid. This is the last individual. •2020 Fox Road sub lease is still being drafted to present to the board. •Prairie dogs issue on the field is still researching other options for removal. Attempting a private applicator license for poison. •Sprinkler system has been cleaned out and winterized. Laurel Airport Authority P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044 406-628-0172 107 New Business: •Motion made and approved for a new non-commercial 50-year lease for Jacob LLC, Nottingham Condo, and Chris Owen. •Motion made and approved for a new non-commercial 50-year lease for Randy Hand •Motion made and approved for the November and December meeting to be combined and conducted on 12/3/2024. •Brad Sinclair has reserved the hanger lot next to Mert Musser •Courtesy car grant for $5,000 has been approved. Need to bring options to the board for vehicle purchase. •Need to get a better power supply for the AWOS. Motion approved for Shane to purchase a power supply. •Letter sent to Scottt Green/Attorney to send to Heath Olson for past due lease payment. •Motion approved to Pay Randy Hand for the electrical work done on the SRE building. •Randy will ask the previous board member to give access to the website and google docs. •KLJ’s request for a change order for the pavement maintenance was previously complied with. •KLJ will fix the increased liquidated damages on all new construction contracts. •Motion approved to require all new Laurel Airport Authority board members to complete board training within 6 months of new appointment. •Research of a new accountant for the Laurel Airport tabled until next meeting. •Leatherneck aviation wants to tow banners out of the Laurel Airport. The Laurel Airport Authority will conduct research before approving the operation. •Rob Atkinson needs to come up with a business plan and operations report for his proposed ski dive operation and present it to the Laurel Airport Authority. •Jim Schaak will draft and present a commercial spray operation proposal to the next board meeting. •Meeting adjourned. • Laurel Airport Authority P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044 406-628-0172 108 Board Member Initiatives: None. Meeting Adjourned. Laurel Airport Authority P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044 406-628-0172 109 File Attachments for Item: 19. Resolution No. R25-21: Resolution Of City Council Approving Final Annexation, Right-Of- Way Dedications, And Zoning For Approximately One Acre Of Property Adjacent To The City Of Laurel, As An Addition To The City Of Laurel, Yellowstone County, Montana. 110 R25-21 Final Annexation of One Acre Parcel (Hull Property), as an Addition to the City of Laurel, and Related Rights-of-Way and Zoning RESOLUTION NO. R25-21 RESOLUTION OF CITY COUNCIL APPROVING FINAL ANNEXATION, RIGHT- OF-WAY DEDICATIONS, AND ZONING FOR APPROXIMATELY ONE ACRE OF PROPERTY ADJACENT TO THE CITY OF LAUREL, AS AN ADDITION TO THE CITY OF LAUREL, YELLOWSTONE COUNTY, MONTANA. WHEREAS, a Petition for Annexation and Concurrent Zoning Designation was submitted to the City of Laurel by Lance Hull, who is the property owner (hereinafter “Petitioner”) of certain real property situated in Yellowstone County, Montana; WHEREAS, the real property is generally described as that portion of Section 8, Township 2 South, Range 24 East, P.M.M., Yellowstone County, Montana, on Certificate of Survey No. 1642 amended Parcel A1 Less Herman Addition., Yellowstone County, Montana. The real property is generally reflected on the Exhibits to the Petition for Annexation, included as part of previously-approved Resolution No. R22-40, which is incorporated by reference herein, and it includes all contiguous roadways and rights-of-way; WHEREAS, the Petitioner sought annexation of the property and zoning as Residential Multiple Family (hereinafter “RMF”); WHEREAS, Petitioner sought annexation of the property into the City of Laurel in order to access and utilize City of Laurel services, including, but not limited to, water, sewer, police, and fire; WHEREAS, the Laurel City-County Planning Board held a duly advertised public hearing on Petitioner’s Petition for Annexation and Concurrent Approval of Initial Zoning Designation on June 15, 2022; WHEREAS, at the the conclusion of the hearing, the Planning Board voted to recommend approval to the City Council of both the annexation and zoning request; WHEREAS, the City Council held a duly advertised public hearing regarding Petitioner’s Petition for Annexation on August 9, 2022; WHEREAS, at the conclusion of the hearing, the City Council determined that approval of the Petition for Annexation and Concurrent Approval of Initial Zoning Designation was in the best interests of the City at this time; WHEREAS, the annexation of the property and zoning is subject to an Annexation Agreement by and between the City of Laurel and the Petitioner, which was executed by and between the Petitioner and the City of Laurel and was attached to Resolution No. R22-40 and thereto incorporated as part of the Resolution; 111 R25-21 Final Annexation of One Acre Parcel (Hull Property), as an Addition to the City of Laurel, and Related Rights-of-Way and Zoning WHEREAS, the Property Owner has complied with all of the terms and conditions of annexation imposed by the Laurel City Council; WHEREAS, all public water, sewer, streetways, and storm drainages have been extended by the Property Owner and approved by the Laurel Public Works Department; WHEREAS, all rights-of-way have been dedicated to the City of Laurel; WHEREAS, a Waiver of Right of Protest has been finalized, and the Development Agreement has been executed and all appropriate and necessary work completed; and WHEREAS, the City is prepared to accept the right-of-way dedications as demonstrated on the Plat Exhibit, approve the Final Annexation of the property and all rights-of-way as demonstrated on the Plat Exhibit; and assign the zoning on the property as RMF. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel, Montana, as follows: 1. The owner of record of the territory annexed to the City of Laurel has executed a Petition of Annexation. 2. Pursuant to Mont. Code Ann. § 7-2-46, the incorporated boundaries of the City of Laurel shall be and the same hereby is extended and/or expanded to include the territory described in Petitioner’s Petition for Annexation and all attached Exhibits. 3. The following described territory is hereby annexed to the City of Laurel: that portion of Section 8, Township 2 South, Range 24 East, P.M.M., Yellowstone County, Montana, on Certificate of Survey No. 1642 amended Parcel A1 Less Herman Addition., Yellowstone County, Montana. The real property is generally reflected on the Exhibits to the Petition for Annexation, which is incorporated by reference herein, and it includes all contiguous roadways and rights-of-way. 4. The owner of record of the territory annexed to the City of Laurel and the City of Laurel have executed an Annexation Agreement, which terms and conditions have been met by the property owner and which are made a part of this Resolution and the Petition for Annexation. 5. That the conditions of the annexation and zoning, as conditioned as follows, have been met: A. On all terms, conditions, and requirements of the Annexation Agreement between the City of Laurel and Petitioner. 112 R25-21 Final Annexation of One Acre Parcel (Hull Property), as an Addition to the City of Laurel, and Related Rights-of-Way and Zoning B. The property shall be zoned as RMF, which is consistent with the zoning of adjacent and nearby properties. C. The Waiver of Right to Protest, a copy of which is attached to Resolution No. 22-40 and incorporated by reference herein, and this Resolution, shall be recorded with the County Clerk and Recorder within ninety (90) days after the adoption of this Resolution. D. Connections to the City of Laurel Water and Sewer Systems have been approved by the City of Laurel’s Public Works Department. E. All improvements and infrastructure connections have been completed. 6. This Resolution shall be incorporated into the official minutes of the City Council, and upon said incorporation, the City Clerk-Treasurer shall file a true and correct certified copy of this Resolution and Meeting Minutes with the Yellowstone County Clerk and Recorder. 7. From and after the date that the City Clerk -Treasurer files such certified copy of this Resolution and of the City Council Meeting Minutes with the Yellowstone County Clerk and Recorder, this Annexation of the above- described territory to the City of Laurel shall be deemed complete and final. 8. Annexation and the City's responsibility for providing service to the property shall become null and void upon Petitioner’s failure to satisfy the conditions imposed by the City Council by and through this Resolution, the Petition for Annexation, and the Annexation Agreement by and between the City of Laurel and the Petitioner. Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 25th day of March, 2025, by Council Member ________________. PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel the 25th day of March, 2025. APPROVED by the Mayor the 25th day of March, 2025. CITY OF LAUREL ___________________________ Dave Waggoner, Mayor 113 R25-21 Final Annexation of One Acre Parcel (Hull Property), as an Addition to the City of Laurel, and Related Rights-of-Way and Zoning ATTEST: _______________________________ Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer APPROVED AS TO FORM: ______________________________ Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 File Attachments for Item: 20. Resolution No. R25-22 - A Resolution Of The City Council Approving The Expedited Subdivision Application For The McLelland Subdivision. 152 R25-22 Approve Expedited Subdivision Application (McLelland Subdivision) RESOLUTION NO. R25-22 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVING THE EXPEDITED SUBDIVISION APPLICATION FOR THE MCLELLAND SUBDIVISION. WHEREAS, applicant Leonard McLelland (hereinafter “the applicant”) submitted to the City of Laurel a request for an expedited subdivision approval; WHEREAS, the proposed 2 lot subdivision is located on East Maryland Lane and Alder Avenue, with an address for the existing house of 708 East Maryland Lane; WHEREAS, the legal description is Tract B1-A1 of Amended Tract B1-A of COS 2385 and consists of 2.094 acres (hereinafter “the subdivision”); WHEREAS, the subdivision is located within the Laurel-Yellowstone County Planning Jurisdiction and the City of Laurel City limits; WHEREAS, the subdivision qualifies for expedited review under the Laurel subdivision regulations consistent with the Laurel Growth Policy; WHEREAS, the applicant has provided all of the supporting subdivision elements as per Appendix H of the Laurel-Yellowstone County Subdivision Regulations, and the documents provided by the applicant were deemed sufficient by the City of Laurel Planning Department and reviewed by the City’s contracted Planner; WHEREAS, Section 16.03.110 Part F of the Laurel Municipal Code provides as follows: Governing Body Action. At a regularly scheduled meeting, the AGB shall consider the following information in deciding whether to approve or deny a final plat: 1.The effect on agriculture, agricultural water user facilities, local services, the natural environment, wildlife and wildlife habitat, and public health and safety (MCA§ 76-3-608 {3)(a)); 2. Consistency with the adopted Growth Policy and Bike/Ped Plan; and 3. These subdivision regulations. 4. The governing body shall give due weight and consideration to the subdivider's expressed preferences (MCA§ 76-3-608(5)(b)). The governing body may not deny approval of a subdivision based solely on the subdivision's 153 R25-22 Approve Expedited Subdivision Application (McLelland Subdivision) impacts on educational services (MCA§ 76-3-608(1)), or based solely on compliance with the Growth Policy (MCA §76-3-605{2)(b)). 5. In the event the governing body denies the final plat, it shall send a letter to the subdivider stating the reasons for the denial along with written findings of fact (MCA§ 76-3-608(4)). 6. After all required signatures have been obtained, the plat shall be recorded with the county clerk and recorder within twelve (12) months of the date of approval. WHEREAS, City Staff recommends that the Laurel City Council approve the expedited subdivision to be known as McLelland Subdivision and further recommends that the applicant has 12 months to receive all signatures required for the subdivision plat, SIA, and supporting documents to be recorded with the County Clerk and Recorder; and WHEREAS, the Laurel City Council considered all factors under the Laurel Municipal Code and all governing Subdivision regulations and finds as follows: Agriculture Impacts. a. There are no agriculture impacts as this subdivision is within the City of Laurel and zoned as a residential use. Agricultural water user facilities Impacts. a. No water rights have been conferred to the subdivider or future owners of the lots within the subdivision. b. Existing irrigation and other related water user facilities shall not be changed or modified from their current use. Local Services Impacts. a. Fire Service will be provided by the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department (Laurel Fire District). b. Law Enforcement shall be provided by the Laurel Police Department. c. The property is within the Laurel School District. d. The proposed roadways and improvements for existing roadways within and adjacent to the proposed Subdivision will not create a burden for roadway maintenance. Natural Environment Impacts. a. The area of the proposed subdivision exists for residential use already. 154 R25-22 Approve Expedited Subdivision Application (McLelland Subdivision) b. The applicant has prepared the subdivision design to adequately protect water quality and will not be installing septic systems but will connect to city wat er and sewer services. Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat Impacts. a. The proposed Subdivision contains no known protected species or those with special status. b. The subdivision is located within the Laurel City Limits. Public health & Safety Impacts. a. The water and wastewater system connections will have to be approved by the Public Works Director b. The subdivision has been designed to ensure no impact arises for the subdivision or surrounding property regarding water and/or wastewater. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel, Montana, as follows: 1. The applicant’s request for expedited subdivision approval for the proposed 2 lot subdivision located on East Maryland Lane and Alder Avenue, with an address for the existing house of 708 East Maryland Lane, and a legal description of Tract B1- A1 of Amended Tract B1-A of COS 2385 and consisting of 2.094 acres, is hereby approved. 2. The applicant has 12 months to receive all signatures required for the subdivision plat, SIA, and supporting documents to be recorded with the County Clerk and Recorder. 3. After all required signatures have been obtained, the plat shall be recorded with the county clerk and recorder within twelve (12) months of the date of approval. Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 25th day of March 2025, by Council Member ________________. PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel the 25th day of March 2025. APPROVED by the Mayor the 25th day of March 2025. 155 R25-22 Approve Expedited Subdivision Application (McLelland Subdivision) CITY OF LAUREL ___________________________ Dave Waggoner, Mayor ATTEST: _______________________________ Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer APPROVED AS TO FORM: ______________________________ Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 File Attachments for Item: 21. Resolution No. R25-23: A Resolution Of The City Council Authorizing The Mayor To Reschedule City Council Meeting Set On Veterans Day. 195 R25-23 Approve Reschedule of City Council Meeting – Veterans Day RESOLUTION NO. R25-23 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO RESCHEDULE CITY COUNCIL MEETING SET ON VETERANS DAY. WHEREAS, the City Council for the City of Laurel (hereinafter “the City”) has a regularly-scheduled City Council Meeting on November 11, 2025 at 6:30 p.m; WHEREAS, November 11, 2025, is the recognized holiday of Veterans Day; WHEREAS, the City Council desires to move the November 11, 2025 City Council Meeting to November 10, 2025, beginning at 6:30 p.m. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel, Montana, that the November 11, 2025 City Council Meeting is hereby moved from November 11, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. to November 10, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 25th day of March, 2025, by Council Member ________________. PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel the 25th day of March, 2025. APPROVED by the Mayor the 25th day of March, 2025. CITY OF LAUREL ___________________________ Dave Waggoner, Mayor ATTEST: _______________________________ Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer APPROVED AS TO FORM: ______________________________ Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney 196