HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Packet 11.25.2025
AGENDA
CITY OF LAUREL
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 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 November 10, 2025.
Correspondence
2. Fire Monthly Report - October 2025.
3. Beartooth RC&D November Correspondence
4. Mize Resignation from Tree/Park Board
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 Calendar for
discussion and consideration. The matters removed from the Consent Calendar will be considered individually at the end of
this Agenda under "Items Removed from the Consent Calendar." (See Section 12.) The entire Consent Calendar, with the
exception of items removed to be discussed under "Items Removed from the Consent Calendar," is then voted upon by roll
call under one motion.
5. Claims entered through November 21, 2025.
6. Clerk/Treasurer Financial Statements for October 2025.
7. Approval of Payroll Register for PPE 11/9/2025 totaling $278,486.02.
8. Council Workshop Minutes of November 18, 2025.
Ceremonial Calendar
Reports of Boards and Commissions
9. Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of November 10, 2025.
10. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of November 12, 2025.
11. Revised Tree/Park Board Minutes of October 2, 2025.
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12. Tree/Park Board Minutes of November 6, 2025.
13. Public Works Committee Minutes of October 20, 2025.
14. City/County Planning Board Minutes of October 15, 2025.
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
15. Appointment of Shane Lacasse to the Emergency Services Committee.
16. Resolution No. R25-95: Resolution Of The City Council Authorizing The Mayor To Sign A
Memorandum Of Understanding For Operation And Cost Sharing For Public Transportation
Services With Allies In Aging.
17. Resolution No. R25-96: A Resolution Of The City Council Authorizing The Mayor To Execute
An Independent Contractor Service Contract With Prorover.
18. Resolution No. R25-97: A Resolution Of The City Council Declaring Certain City Of Laurel
Property As “Surplus” Available For Sale Or Trade To The Public Or Other Governmental
Entities Or Vendors.
19. Resolution No. R25-98: A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Laurel, Montana
Authorizing The Allocation Of Funds Towards The Purchase Of An Ambulance For The City.
20. Resolution No. R25-99: A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Laurel, Montana
Authorizing The Purchase Of Trailer From The City’s General Fund By The Water And Sewer
Enterprise Funds.
Items Removed From the Consent Agenda
Community Announcements (One-Minute Limit)
This portion of the meeting is to provide an opportunity for citizens to address the Council regarding community
announcements. The duration for an individual speaking under Community Announcements is limited to one minute. While
all comments are welcome, the Council will not take action on any item not on the agenda.
Council Discussion
Council members may give the City Council a brief report regarding committees or groups in which they are involved.
Mayor Updates
Unscheduled Matters
Adjournment
The City makes reasonable accommodations for any known disability that may interfere with a person’s ability to participate
in this meeting. Persons needing accommodation must notify the City Clerk’s Office to make needed arrangements. To mak e
your request known, please call 406-628-7431, Ext. 2, or write to City Clerk, PO Box 10, Laurel, MT 59044, or present your
request at City Hall, 115 West First Street, Laurel, Montana.
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File Attachments for Item:
1. Approval of Minutes of November 10, 2025.
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File Attachments for Item:
2. Fire Monthly Report - October 2025.
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For the Month of:
Number of Calls Number of Hours
7
5
13
4
8
6
14
30
0
87 906
Training Hours 157DNRC Staffing Hrs.0
1063
Laurel Fire Department
October
Announcements:
Training on Engine 25, Structure Fire Training and Fire Science.
The number of calls reflects the number of times we had PD assistance or
assisted PD.
Other Calls
Other Activities
Total Hours for the Month
Public AssistMedical Assist.Severity Staffing
Total
Wildland Fire
AlarmExtricationOther Rescue
Structure FireCall 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.
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File Attachments for Item:
3. Beartooth RC&D November Correspondence
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Beartooth RC&D
Executive Director Responsibilities
Beartooth RC&D is seeking a part-time Executive Director, who will report directly to the
Beartooth Executive Committee. Expectations and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Schedule
o Approximately 10-12 hours per month
o Most work can be done remotely, with occasional visits to the office and meetings with
Beartooth Board and partners
o Must be present to represent Beartooth in annual MOU discussions and assist with
preparation of related materials
Strategic Oversight & Visioning
o Provide leadership on long-term goals and regional development priorities
o Support alignment between Beartooth RC&D’s mission and current initiatives
o Maintain key relationships with regional partners, funders, and government entities
Board Collaboration
o Prepare for and attend monthly Board/Executive Committee meetings
o Advise the Board on strategic decisions, funding opportunities, and program direction
Funding & Resource Development
o Identify high-level funding opportunities (grants, sponsorships, collaborations)
o Support grant strategy and review proposals when appropriate
Organizational Stewardship
o Ensure compliance with nonprofit governance and reporting requirements
o Provide guidance to staff or volunteers on priority projects
o Conduct annual staff evaluations
Communication
o Respond to emails as needed on a weekly basis
o Lead occasional staff meetings to guide and advise employees
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Beartooth RC&D Area, Inc.
Board of Directors Meeting Agenda
1:00 pm on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025
Ace Stillwater County Civic Center
16 Sheep Dip Rd, Columbus, MT 59019
1:00 pm Meeting Called to Order
Pledge of Allegiance, Introduction of Members &
Guests
Chair, All
Information
Review September Board Minutes
Chair, All Action
Congressional Updates
Tory Kolkhorst (Sen. Daines)
Zoey Stroop (Congressman Downing)
Celia Rigler (Sen. Sheehy)
Information
Treasurer/Financial Reports
Treasurer Update
RC&D Financials – p. 9
RLF Financials – p. 10
Financial Update – p. 11
Attorney Fee Schedule – p. 11
Hauge / Knight Action
Action
Beartooth Employee Personnel Handbook
(Approval of Updates)
Executive Director Responsibilities Review
Chair Action
Staff Reports – Program/Project Updates
1. Food/Ag Program – p. 12
2. Project Mngmt– p. 12
3. REAP
Eik
Lastusky
Losleben
Information
Regional Roundup
News & updates from regional members on projects
& activities in key CEDS categories (see topics on
next page)
Roe, et al. Information
Next Beartooth RC&D Board Meeting
January 15, 2026 – Rock31 Zoot Room
Information
2:30 pm Adjourn
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Regional Roundup
CEDS SWOT (Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy: Strengths-Weaknesses-
Opportunities-Threats)
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 each area that fit into our CEDS categories.
Be thinking about Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, & Threats 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
Childcare
Natural Resources
Agriculture
Energy
Human Capital
Wo rkforce
Education
NOTES:
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Beartooth RC&D Board Meeting
September 18, 2025 – 1:00 pm
Roberts Fire Hall
Present:
Brad Eik, Food & Ag Director
Nan Knight, Finance Director/Brownfields Coordinator
Myrna Lastusky, Project Manager
Ryan Van Ballegooyen, Dept. of Labor & Industry/Job Service
Commissioner Melanie Roe, Sweet Grass County
Mike Boyett, Billings City Council
Tina Toyne, City of Hardin Economic Development Director
Kevin Mitchum, Sibanye-Stillwater Mine
Zoey Stroop, Congressman Downing’s Office
Tork Kolkhorst, Senator Daines’ Office
Commissioner Scott Blain, Carbon County
Lorene Hintz, Big Sky EDA / SBDC
Bob Van Oosten, Stillwater Conservation District
Via Zoom:
Danny Choriki, Billings Area Family Violence Task Force/Ubet Post
Commissioner Mike Waters, Yellowstone County
Guest:
Alexandria Edwards, City of Hardin – Project Manager for City of Hardin Pilot Tourism grant
Meeting Called to Order: Ryan Van Ballegooyen called the meeting to order.
Pledge of Allegiance, Introduction of Members and Guests
Review July Board Minutes: Danny Choriki motioned; Tina Toyne seconded. Motion
carried.
Congressional Updates
Tory Kolkhorst (Senator Daines)
Assassination of Charlie Kirk – effect felt throughout the world. Sen. Daines has gone on
multiple news shows. Tory read a statement from the senator.
9-11 Anniversary – two Montanans were on flight that crashed in Pentagon
Bill Mercer’s nomination passed Senate Judiciary Committee as Montana District Judge
Central Asia – overturn outdated trade restrictions and stop flow of narcotics
Senate Indian Affairs – Crow Revenue Act, Crow Tribe Water Settlement Act
Was just in Israel to meet with PM Netanyahu and wrote an OpEd in The Daily Caller
Comsr Blain thanked Tory by helping his family get a White House tour recently
Zoey Stroop (Congressman Downing)
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Visited 18 counties in August – did a Highline Tour
Secured MT Water Security Act – Fort Belknap
Introduced legislation to reverse Biden Admin’s ban on federal coal leasing in Powder River
Basin
Introduced bi-partisan bill to modernize FEMA flood maps
Attended several vigils and memorials for Charlie Kirk
Treasurer/Financial Reports: page 9
Have received $470,686
Expenses at $373,479
Audit prices went up but not as much as we budgeted for
$117K in checking account currently
$109K in pass-throughs
RLF Books: p. 10
25 loans in our region
o Loan balance is just over $2 million
o Waiting to finalize new loan in Yellowstone for $210,000
o Completed compliance review for Brownfield RLF – active on Oct. 1st. Will allow us to
loan out $1M for cleanup activities.
o 1 delinquent loan in Yellowstone – certified letter has been sent
Ryan said it’s a great track record to only have 1 of 25 delinquent since we deal
in higher-risk loans
o $1.9M in loans (not counting the Brownfield RLF – that will be completely separate)
Financial Update – p. 11
Update of everything going on as of beginning of September
REAP – continue to wait for it to open up; anticipate Oct. 1st opening for a 25/75 split to conduct
energy efficient upgrades
o Beartooth will receive $20K for 2 years to assist in TA and marketing
o State asked Beartooth if we would house an employee for 2 years to conduct REAP TA.
They had someone in Helena but they weren’t doing outreach to eastern MT. Our
Executive Committee voted last month to move forward with a hire. We have hired one
of the candidates for the Ag position that we were very impressed with, and she has
accepted the job offer to start Nov. 3rd.
RMAP TA funds - $14,397 – for any business with 10 employees or fewer, we can come in to do
training or other TA.
o We approved $3,000 of these funds to be used for an economic impact study for
Yellowstone Cattle Feeders.
BSED decided not to continue their partnership with Beartooth under the MOU. Paul Green said
with their budget cut and letting 6 employees go, they had to find more areas to cut.
2024 audit costs went from $17K to $24,100 due to Beartooth being subject to a single audit
requirement. Nan provided a couple copies of the audit and said she will need an approval of it by
the end of the month. Our auditor Caitlin is happy to answer any questions from our board.
Nan drew attention to #9 – “Beartooth is not found to be a low-risk organization.” She asked the
auditor, and that is standard procedure for any organization in the first two years as a single audit.
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o Ryan: We have a clean audit, which is great. Nan had to transition everything to new
software over the past year.
o Mike asked about the “no major issues” – any minor ones? The only thing the auditor
mentioned is that credit card receipts need to be coded a little more carefully or use some
software. It is expensive, so Nan asked her for suggestions for software for our size
organization.
ACTION: Lorene Hintz motioned to approve the Beartooth and RLF financials as presented.
Melanie Roe seconded. Motion carried.
ACTION: Mike Boyett motioned to approve the audit as presented; Tina Toyne seconded. Motion
carried.
Conflict of Interest Policy: Ryan shared it with the members and asked them to read and sign and return
to us, including the ones online.
AI Policy: Ryan shared the policy and asked for input.
Danny Choriki mentioned the different types of AI and possibly including that language.
We continue to finetune the Personnel Policy Handbook and will ask it to be official next
meeting.
STAFF REPORTS
Food and Ag Director (Brad Eik) – p. 14
Attended annual FADC meeting in Whitefish – got to meet counterparts around the state. Very
impressed with the work the FADCs are doing. Took some tours and saw some work that is being
done. Excited to do the same for our counties.
Business Enhancement Program (BEP): Deadline was Sept. 15 and money was left, so before
deadline, we reached out to many current clients and were able to apply for several grants. Some
of the clients were able to get 2 or 3 BEP grants (totaling $6K or $9K). e.g. Caramel Cookie
Wa ffle Co. and Greycliff Mill, for example.
Lean 101 Training – Nan and Brad attended the training with the employees and it was a great
experience – team building exercises and showing how everything flows much better as a chain
vs. isolated tasks. Great training if anyone has a business they want us to help.
FADC Annual Report submitted.
Turk Stovall/Yellowstone Eco Solutions – plans for huge feedlot, ethanol plant, and packing
plant. Would include an innovation center to teach employees and add many jobs to Yellowstone
economy. Will also greatly help farmers and ranchers in the state.
Attended Billings Market Trade Show – was able to visit with Becky Stahl of Becky’s Berries
and was so impressed with her knowledge and processes. Becky wants to start working with
influencers.
Brad is a 4th generation family rancher from Joliet, but this new job has opened his eyes up to so
many more opportunities for the ag community in Montana.
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Project Manager Report (Myrna Lastusky) – p. 14
USDA RCDI Grant with RLACF
Roberts (Schuyler Commons)
o Young teacher in the bungalow
o Working on plans to begin Phase I triplex
Roberts Birch House – Roberts School staff member to buy/repair the home
Old Memorial Hospital – site-specific cleanup grant application, partner coordination
o This morning we found out the owner is not able/willing to proceed as quickly as we
need it to happen
RCAC (Rural Community Assistance Corporation) Grant in Columbus
Stillwater County Chamber of Commerce support / formation of 501c3
Farmers Market Outreach/Communication – every Thursday August 7– Sept. 4th
Tourism team
o Rilie Tané Art historical mural across from City Hall – ribbon-cutting held on Sept. 4th
with Q2 news coverage.
o Met with Museum of the Beartooths Board – approved future mural
Downtown Revitalization team – Mural designed by Saydee Mitchum was painted on NAPA by
Saydee & friends/family, and Downtown team members. Ribbon-cutting held on Aug. 28th.
Myrna shared photos of the new murals. Oohs and ahhs. 😊
Miscellaneous
Job applicants, hiring of Brad Eik, and working to hire someone for the REAP TA program
Rapelje Bike Fest: Sept. 12-14 (provided planning help)
EDA Disaster Supplemental Grant – working with Stillwater, Stahly, & EDA on options
RCDI Grant Application for Sweet Grass – awaiting word on this
Bozeman Trail efforts – Ralph Saunders book published & website live
o Mel mentioned the Yellowstone Trail efforts – are working with the Sweet Grass Museum
(Mel with check with someone on that and whether BT efforts can be combined)
Brownfields Program Report (Nan Knight) – p. 13
Rocky Fork Inn will be bulldozed soon.
Beartooth is considering applying for another assessment grant. Since funding became available
in July 2024, we have depleted our $460K of funds to $90K. Some projects are still in the works,
but so far we have completed:
o 2 Phase 1 assessments
o 4 Phase 2 assessments
o 4 ABCAs (Analysis of Brownfield Cleanup Alternatives)
Still working to assist the Helping Hands Food Bank in Hardin – will be a couple of years
Also considering a site at Muddy Hall – N. Cheyenne area
Dry cleaner in Laurel who is looking for assistance to either sell or convert equipment to modern,
healthier laundering methods. Also considering REAP as an option.
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Nan and Myrna went to Chicago in August for the National Brownfields Conference – very
intensive learning.
Gaurav Thakur, EDD, on Extended Family Medical Leave
Ryan explained that Gaurav is on extended family medical leave for several months in India. Staff &
Executive Committee are hoping to keep things afloat until he can return. He is a great employee and it
will take time to find a new hire, get them trained, and get them even close to where Gaurav is before he
can hopefully return. We will know more by the end of the calendar year.
REGIONAL ROUNDUP
Commissioner Scott Blain, Carbon County
Old Cedarwood Nursing Home was purchased by County; contracted with Cushing Terrell for a
potential Law & Justice Center. Courthouse is very old and has no elevator. Plan to demo
Cedarwood in the next year and move forward. This would put all county services into one
building instead of 3.
o Hoping to do most of it without any more taxpayer asks.
o The food bank is currently in Cedarwood, but they could probably relocate to the old
courthouse.
Joliet – getting a new water tower
Joliet Farmers Market has been a great event
Trying to manage county fairgrounds more efficiently – ability to have weddings, etc. Hired a
fairgrounds part-time manager to bring in more events.
Beartooth, EDA, & Stahly are working with Carbon to submit EDA Disaster grants for Edgar
Lagoon and Rosebud Creek Rd. reconstruction.
Mike Boyett, City of Billings
We have a superfund site in Billings – old dry cleaner that was dumping chemicals. It is a 33-
year, $30M project with Sites A, B, and C.
Amend Park – 2 indoor ice skating rinks (one for public, one for hockey team) and 6 indoor
gyms. All being done with TIF funding. Will bring a lot of outside money into Billings.
Mental Health facility efforts – process wasn’t well done; State hadn’t set aside money for hiring.
Comsr. Waters agreed that they had not thought things through well at all. Needed water and
sewer from the City. Perhaps Laurel or Columbus will want it now.
Lorene Hintz, BSED / SBDC
Annual Bus Tour - 60 people participated. Toured the new Army facility, Vet School, etc.
Member Investor Lunches – is now called Behind the Bill. They had a networking event at TKI.
BSED Annual Meeting is Oct 2nd at 11:15 at the Depot.
Statewide Training on Digital Marketing – Zoom meeting but want groups to meet in person. So
join them Oct 21 at the Zoot Room for our area.
Bob Van Oosten, Stillwater Conservation District
Very dry; rivers and streams are getting really low.
Many people coming in for diversion work on streams.
Many ditches in need of help over the winter.
Kevin Mitchum, Sibanye-Stillwater Mine
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Really appreciated Beartooth & the ROCE Downtown team hosting the contest his daughter
Saydee won for the mural – it was a great experience for her.
Mine is working on budgets for next year
Slight relief on metal prices but need them to go up more. They are at least stable.
Still hiring a bit, mainly mechanics and elevator repair
Ryan Van Ballegooyen, Dept of Labor / Billings Job Service
Workforce – more people looking for work than we have work available
Unemployment rates are very low still
MT is historically one of the last to react to economic conditions
406 Jobs Initiative:
o 4 pathways for every Montanan to have an employment plan
o 0 barriers to work
o 6 high-demand sectors (including healthcare, construction, manufacturing)
o Every Montanan will have a job plan, whether they are a teen or retired and still looking
for part-time work.
Alexandria Edwards, City of Hardin (for Tina Toyne)
Alex began as Project Manager for Hardin’s Pilot Tourism grant in June
5 new businesses since July – and DQ re-opened!
Food trucks are becoming very popular all over but really booming in Hardin
Splash pad at South Park had some delays – grand opening in spring. Horseshoe courts and
cornhole boards will be ready this fall.
Tina, Alex, and Mayor doing outreach at Farmers Markets
Pilot Tourism Grant – working with Cushing Terrell on architectural services for a Visitor Center
Contracted with Destination IQ for marketing and tourism. Spent 3 days taking them all over Big
Horn. They were amazed at the size of the County and the amount of things to do.
Alex and Tina are attending Reimagining Rural in Glasgow and then going to MEDA in Polson
Danny Choriki, Ubet Post/Billings Area Family Violence Task Force
AI Policy – take a serious look at defining what you mean by it (many types of AI).
Billings Area Family Violence Task Force meeting next Friday focusing on stalking issue.
o Educate people on what is happening
o Huge gap between when someone is being threatened/stalked and when they turn in a
report to police to the time when they actually feel safe. No one is currently responsible
for that. Big part of that is the breakdown of community.
o Woman leading the conversation is Diane Parker – morning anchor on KULR-8 – who
has been through a lot the past few years with a stalker. There were 10 open cases against
her stalker at one point, which just should not happen.
Commissioner Mike Waters, Yellowstone County
Record year for the fair – great having outdoor rodeo arena
Got through new fiscal cycle. Public safety budgets are still a concern.
Meeting adjourned at 2:26 pm.
Next BRCD Board Meeting is Thursday, November 20th at 1:00 pm in Columbus (venue TBD).
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Oct 2025 Beartooth Books
2025 Income % of budgeted
Budget Actual
AG-FOOD AND AG CENTER 60,000 52,420 87.37%
Specialty Crop Block 58,166 4,146 7.13%
FARM TO SCHOOL 1,200 3,335 277.92%
REAP 5,000 1,755 35.10%
BOARD - EDA SPONSOR DUES 56,979 43,136 75.71%
BOARD-INTEREST INCOME 450 239 53.04%
BOARD-FOUNDATION MONEY 3,300 3,610 109.40%
DEQ-EJ 36,500 4,280 11.73%
RLF-ORIG FEES 5,000 3,260 65.20%
RLF- RMAP 12,500 11,526 92.21%
BROWNFIELD 19,250 23,733 123.29%
CRDC 82,269 61,702 75.00%
EDA - GRANT 70,000 52,500 75.00%
RCAC 25,000 16,602 66.41%
RCDI( Hardin)4,800 5,706 118.88%
RCDI ( Red Lodge) 4,800 3,952 82.34%
Pass- Through 259,676
Restricted SSBCI & Loan Interest 93,751
445,214 645,329
Expenses for 2025
TOTAL STAFF EXPENSE 275,000 232,313 84.48%
COMMUNICATIONS 12,000 11,460 95.50%
EQUIPMENT & VEHICLE 9,000 7,215 2.62%
CONTRACTUAL 15,000 261,024 1740.16%
SUPPLIES 10,000 18,019 180.19%
TRAVEL 20,000 16,129 80.65%
INSURANCES 8,000 8,015 100.19%
RENT/UTILITIES 12,500 6,590 52.72%
FY 24 Audit 28,000 26,100 93.21%
Restricted SSBCI & Loan Interest
EXPENSE TOTAL 389,500 586,867
55,714 58,462
Statement Ending: 10/31/2025
Checking Account:$91,251.75 unrestricted cash
Restricted cash in checking
for CGWG & JOJ $8,542.93 $82,708.82
Savings Account:$77,735.41
Building Account:$4,511.06
*Defunded or funding exhausted
2025
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Revolving Loan Fund Books ending - October 31, 2025
Loan Client Review
County # of loans $ Loan Balances
Big Horn 2 182,865.87$
Carbon 4 440,336.09$
Stillwater 4 367,738.28$
Sweet Grass 1 56,467.99$
Yellowstone 14 909,253.71$
Total:25 1,956,661.94$
*One new loan was approved in Yellowstone County in the amount of $210,000. waiting for closing
* RLF activity is extremely active
* One delinquent loan in Yellowstone County - now working with attorney
Bank Balances as of October 31,2025 Total available for lending
Bank of Joliet- RMAP 164,932.43$ 164,932.43$
$250,000 (still waiting to be drawn down)
Bank of Joliet – RMAP LOAN LOSS 8,030.08$ -$
Bank of Joliet EDA 23,337.19$ 23,337.19$
Bank of Joliet-CDBG 201,480.68$ 201,480.19$
Bank of Joliet- IRP 746,318.19$ 706,318.19$
Bank of Joliet-Fromberg 52,815.00$ 52,815.00$
Available:1,148,883.00$
(RMAP waiting to be drawn down) 250,000.00$
(IRP and BSED waiting to be drawn down)210k pending 511,250.00$
1,910,133.00$
Restricted Accounts Principal amounts paid back
FIB – SSBCI 2.0 $148,621.00 10,551.90$
BOJ- SSBCI 2.0 $79,651.50 18,728.70$
Drawn drown New funded:
Loans amount:$750,000
New IRP- 215,250.00$ 71,500.00$
New IRP- 67,500.00$ 22,500.00$
New IRP- 112,500.00$ 39,250.00$
New IRP-157,500.00$ 52,500.00$
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Financial Update
2024 Audit Costs
o Total Audit: $26,100
o Single Audit: $24,100
o 990 Filing: $2,000
Beartooth retired the old phone system and transitioned to a new Wi-Fi-based system.
New Monthly Plan
Wi-Fi phones $100/month
Office Wi-Fi service: $69.95/month
Total New Monthly Cost: $169.95
Email Migration (Required for Transition)
One-time email conversion: $1,700
QuickBooks Upgrade & Credit Card Tracking
Auditor recommended stronger tracking of credit card activity.
Beartooth upgraded to QuickBooks Enterprise on October 22.
Upgrade cost: $1,904
Annual subscription going forward: $2,300
Credit received for unused subscription: $1,700
Board Action Needed
Discussion and recommendation on establishing a cap for attorney fees.
Previous Monthly Costs
CenturyLink: $203
Quest: $26.95
T-Mobile: $60
Total Old Monthly Cost: $289.95
Monthly Savings: $120
21
12
STAFF REPORTS
FADC Director Report (Brad Eik)
BAM – Had two of the three BAM applications accepted for funding (Becky’s Berries SW, and
Stone Soup Kitchen Y)
Agritourism Grant - Applications were due at the end of October, Hailey Vine at MDA said all the
FADC’s submitted 1 or 2 applications. Beartooth area submitted 6 very strong applications.
Growth Through Ag – Deadline for pre-apps was Monday the 10th. I reviewed 3 applications for
applicants, and I am uncertain of how many others may have been submitted.
REAP - Sky and I attended a REAP meeting in Bozeman Nov 6th with the main facilitators for the
program in the state, but no one from USDA was present due to the shutdown.
We also attended the 2025 Ag Economics Conference Nov 7th also in Bozeman. It was a day
+filled with excellent speakers offering great information about the state of the economic
structure of Montana.
My FADC – Marketing program put together with MDA and Northern Ag Network Broadcasting
to allow current clients to voice their support for their local FADC and share something we have
helped them do. This also gives our clients a little free advertising for them.
I am happy to report that I have contacted or been contacted by more than 40 new and existing
clients in our area! I think that is pretty good for just over 3 months. I would say the team’s
outreach is working.
Project Manager Report (Myrna Lastusky)
USDA Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) with Red Lodge Area Community
Foundation (RLACF/Angela Getchell, Workforce Housing Manager)
Roberts (Schuyler Commons) – work has begun on the Phase 1 triplex.
Bridger property (6 acres) – no longer an option due to lack of access. BUT we are working on
housing with Bridger School District and a possible 8-acre site with Town of Bridger.
Red Lodge Visioning Exercise - KSU TAB will present their final report to City personnel on
Dec. 2nd and to the community in the spring.
Selected firm to begin the CDBG Housing Study for Red Lodge (WSW / EPS).
RCAC (Rural Community Assistance Corporation) Grant in Columbus
ROCE Reunion (Oct.14) – an evening with all the teams to discuss successes, challenges, and
next steps. More projects in the works!
Collaborated with Museum of the Beartooths Director Penny Redli and one of the ROCE Tourism
members to write a Montana 250 grant application.
Rallied the ROCE troops to help with Columbus public pool LOS.
Miscellaneous:
Letters, phone calls, and emails with BSED to renew our partnership. Success!
Discussions & meetings regarding the East Rosebud Armstrong Creek project with ERLA, SCD,
CCD, & commissioners.
Wrote a Sibanye-Stillwater Community Giving grant, and Roberts Fire District #6 was awarded
$20K for a Rapid Intervention Team rescue package.
Preparing MOUs, 2025 project updates for annual MOU presentations (thankful for a little help
from GT from afar!). Love working with our partners throughout the region!
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13
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
23
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
24
25
EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK
FOR
EMPLOYEES
OF
BEARTOOTH RESOURCE
CONSERVATION & DEVELOPMENT
AREA, INC.
26
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 all previous
documents pertaining to rules and regulations at BRCD. During your employment, you will want
to refer 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 suc cessful 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 the 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 a proper
understanding of his/her job and to help each employee satisfactorily perform in his/her job.
27
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
JURY DUTY .................................................................................................................................................................................... 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 ......................................................................................................................................................................... 9
RELATIVES (EMPLOYMENT OF) ............................................................................................................................................... 9
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
AI POLICY .................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
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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 6 months (180 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
six (6) 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
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 can 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.
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EXEMPT EMPLOYEE
An exempt employee is an executive, administrative or professional employee who is exempt from
minimum wage or overtime requirements. Unless otherwise stated 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 Executive Committee. 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 Executive Director 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 Executive Director 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 consider skills, aptitudes and past
work performance in determining work force adjustments. Seniority may be used as a determining
factor in determining work 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 unless otherwise stated by Executive
Committee
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 dat e,
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 office and work hours are 8:30-5:00. The workweek is Sunday through
Saturday. Work periods may vary from assignment to assignment and may require overtime. Each
employee will be expected to work from Monday through Friday primarily unless stated otherwise,
which will be periodically reviewed and updated. Changes to the established workweek will be
made by a memo prior to the proposed change as defined in the employee work rules.
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Page 3 Updated November 2025
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 in line with the approved schedule of work
FLEXIBLE HOURS
The Executive Director 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 determined when hired or 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 are optional. Meal periods which require
attention to work assignments will be counted as working time.
BREAKS
Two (2) fifteen (15) minute break periods are granted per day because we believe they result in
good employee morale and increased productivity. Break periods are counted as working hours
and are therefore optional. 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, board meetings, safety items, product and business information.
Your supervisor 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 at these meetings.
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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 . 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 or modifying 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
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Page 5 Updated November 2025
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 or with frequent informal
check-ins 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
can be a factor in the consideration of compensation depending on available funding.
BENEFITS
Various employee benefits may be available to you such as vacation, holidays, insurance programs,
and Retirement Plan. Eligibility depends 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 and approving
the training depending on funding availability.
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, Christmas Day, and all other recognized state or federal Holidays. Juneteenth
and Columbus Day are flex holidays and can be used at another time during the same calendar
year. Additional paid days off may be granted at the discretion of BRCD.
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.
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VACATION
It is the policy of BRCD that each full-time employee shall earn annual vacation credits beginning
on 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 number of hours worked.
Employees must complete a waiting period of six (6) calendar months of continuous employment
to be eligible to take annual leave or receive cash compensation for leave accrued upon
termination. In the event of a break in service, an employee must complete a new waiting period.
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
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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 or to receive cash compensation for sick leave credits until they have been
continuously employed for ninety (90) 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 friend; and for dentist and doctor appointments.
An employee on sick leave shall inform the Supervisor as soon as it 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 regard to our parental leave policy:
Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act as amended by the Pregnancy discrimination Act of 1978;
Family and Medical Leave Act; Americans with Disabilities Act; and applicable state and local
family leave laws.
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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 regard to local
emergency organizations, the employee is granted the same leave with pay 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. Employees are allowed
to use Paid Time Off if they would like to get paid time for jury duty.
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. Personnel infractions regarding fiscal or fiduciary offenses will
be taken seriously by the Executive Committee.
VISITORS
Visitation is to take place in the break room, reception area or individual office of the person
receiving the visitor. Excessive interruptions by visitors are grounds for disciplinary action
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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 is 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.
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 criteria, 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 the
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 use of other BRCD equipment is
permitted without prior approval by management.
ALCOHOL/DRUGS
Personal use, sale, purchase, transfer, or possession of alcohol, vaping, marijuana or any misused
legal or 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 direct
or indirect working relationship with each other.
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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 Executive Director. To ensure 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.
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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.
BRCD follows the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) rates for mileage, lodging, and per
diem. Employees are responsible for checking the current GSA rates when submitting travel expense
reports.
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 use their
BRCD credit card for approved actual travel expenses, meals, mileage and incidental expenses not
to exceed current Federal Per Diem reimbursement rates. 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. Meals purchased for others
require approval from Executive Director.
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 Executive Committee 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.
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PURCHASES
To Prompt a Purchase:
1. When the normal cash disbursement procedure of the 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.
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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 on the most practical and economical choice.
Consultants:
Contracts with consultants will include the rate and schedule of pay, deliverables, time frame, and
other information such as a work plan, etc. Justification for payment should be submitted to the 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 tr affic 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 at a rate not to
exceed the current Federal reimbursement rate
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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 opportunities 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.
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REPRESENTATION OF SERVICES
Employees will, during their assigned duties, perform services in the name of BRCD. Upon
termination of employment (either voluntarily or involuntarily) the 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 require 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
should be considered grounds for discipline or termination.
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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
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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 our employees will conduct themselves free of harassment. 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 to bring it out in the open by communication and total employee/employer
commitment.
Reporting and Act of Harassment: 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
Executive Director and attempt to resolve it informally.
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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 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
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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.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Use Policy
Purpose
This policy provides guidance on the appropriate and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence
(AI) tools and technologies by employees of Beartooth RC&D. Our goal is to ensure AI is used
ethically, safely, and in ways that protect our organization, our employees, and the communities
we serve.
Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and volunteers who use AI tools for work-
related purposes.
Acceptable Use
Employees may use AI tools for:
Drafting, brainstorming, or editing written materials.
Research and summarizing information.
Generating ideas, outlines, or templates.
Automating routine tasks that do not involve confidential or sensitive information.
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Prohibited Use
Employees may not use AI tools for:
Entering, storing, or sharing confidential, proprietary, or personally identifiable
information (PII) without prior authorization.
Making final decisions that impact employees, clients, or the public without human
review and approval.
Representing AI-generated content as entirely original without proper review and editing.
Any use that violates copyright, privacy rights, or applicable laws.
Human Oversight
All AI-generated content must be reviewed and approved by an employee before being
distributed, published, or used in official work.
Employees remain responsible for the accuracy and appropriateness of any work that
includes AI-generated input.
Transparency
When appropriate, employees should disclose that AI tools were used in the creation of
materials, particularly in external communications, reports, or publications.
AI should be used as a supplement to human judgment, not as a replacement.
Security & Privacy
Do not upload sensitive or private data (employee records, financial data, client
information, etc.) into AI systems unless the tool has been specifically approved for
secure use by the organization.
Employees should immediately report any potential data breach or misuse involving AI.
Training & Updates
The organization will provide training and resources to help employees use AI
responsibly.
This policy may be updated as AI technology and regulations evolve. Employees are
expected to stay informed of updates.
Violations
Failure to follow this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination,
depending on the severity of the violation.
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File Attachments for Item:
4. Mize Resignation from Tree/Park Board
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File Attachments for Item:
8. Council Workshop Minutes of November 18, 2025.
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54
55
56
File Attachments for Item:
9. Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of November 10, 2025.
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File Attachments for Item:
10. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of November 12, 2025.
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LAA Board Meeting Minutes
November 12, 2025 (6 pm)
Roll Call: Joe Mutchler, Jim Wise, Randy Hand, Gary Blain, Doug Myers (Randy hand present
by phone, Joe Mutchler ascent, all other members present).
Members of public present: Fred Lee, Chris Jones, Pat (signature unreadable), Mark Boulet,
Brad Sinclair, Chuck Henrichs
Approval of Minutes from previous meeting: 9/23/2025 by unanimous consent (Randy
abstaining as had not seen minutes).
Financial Update (YTD financial summary provided by Beartooth accounting and current
Western security bank summary provided.)
Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items: (None made)
Public Comment on Agenda Items: Public comments welcomed as agenda items discussed
KLJ Engineering:
1. Master Plan and Construction Report/Airport Maintenance Report (KLJ will provide written
summary of 6S8 related activities and project status later in month.)
2. Discuss and approve, redirecting MDT funds from grass runway project to Main RW (4 – 22) project
(Justin Zindell of KLJ needs approval from us by Friday the 14th.) A motion made by Jim Wise and
seconded by Doug Myers and passed by unanimous consent to redirect funding intended for grass
RW project towards RW 4-22 project.
New Business:
1. Discuss and approve: Rural Broadband of Billings coming out to install internet service for us on
Friday 11/14 at 9/am. Their service will replace that of current provider WispWest. John
Roberts is willing to come out to assist. A motion made by Gary Blain and seconded by Jim Wise
and passed by unanimous consent to move forward on project as currently scheduled.
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2. Discuss and approve … an “official” waiting list regarding lots on Cory. Doug has put together a
list of applicants (by date of interest expressed) for each lot. A motion made by Gary Blain and
seconded by Randy Hand and passed by unanimous consent to accept waiting list as currently
configured:
Lot 2635 Cory for Fred Lee (application for lease on 4/4/2025)
Lot 2625 for Chuck Henrichs (application for lease on 4/4/2025)
Lot 2615 for Brad Sinclair (application for lease on 4/4/2025)
Lot 2605 for Bill Austin (application for lease on 4/4/2025)
3. Discussion re KLJ required criteria for building of lots on Cory. Motion made by Gary Blain and
seconded by Doug Myers and passed by unanimous consent to accept plan forward: KLJ needs
to survey lots to confirm corners and confirm max bldg. sizes of 60’ wide by 70’ deep. Hangar
surveys and topo survey be done. All grading and building design will be reviewed. The
assumption is that all 4 lots will share utility costs etc equally.
4. Discuss and Approve Jim Wise (or any other Board members) to sign our pending lease
requests in absence of Chairman. Motion made by Gary Blain and seconded by Doug Myers and
passed by unanimous consent, to allow all board members present at meetings, to sign lease
requests in the absence of a chairman.
5. Discuss and approve … a request from Ed Taylor to lease 2405 DeFrance (previously held by Jim
Schaak) to build on the vacant lot there. Ed has already expressed interest via email, and has
completed a 50-year non-commercial lease and signed it. A motion was made by Jim Wise and
seconded by Gary Blain and passed by unanimous consent that we table the signing of Ed’s lease
until we have received a statement of lease release from Jim Schaak who currently holds the
lease for that lot address. Doug Myers will call Jim Schaak and request the statement of release.
6. Discuss and approve … a request from Tony George to lease 2307 East Stormont (previously
held by Donna McKamy). Tony has already expressed interest via email, and has completed a 50
year lease and signed it. A motion made by Gary Blain and seconded by Jim Wise and passed by
unanimous consent, to sign Tony’s lease and it was done. Doug Myers will mail a signed copy to
Tony and another copy will be kept in the fireproof safe / cabinet.
7. Jim Wise will submit a letter of intent to lease the lot at 2308 Powers (the lot that has been
previously considered for parking). Jim has already expressed interest in a lease via email, and
will work with KLJ to confirm lot and max hangar boundaries. A motion made by Gary Blain and
seconded by Randy Wise and passed by unanimous consent, to supply Jim with a draft lease …
pending confirmation of the lot and hangar dimensions from KLJ.
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8. Discuss the request of a balloon operator, Mark Boulet, to rent space for his equipment trailer
and to launch from 6S8. Doug Myers has had conversations with MT Aeronautics (Stephen
Torske) regarding the subject and will relay them to the Board. Mark would like to launch from
and / or recover balloons at 6S8. Chris Jones is also a balloon operator who would operate in
conjunction with Mark. A 100’ x100’ launch area was discussed and requested. It was not
stated directly if the operation would be commercial or recreational. The board members
present expressed concerns regarding not only the impact on the safety of air traffic departing
from and landing at Laurel airport, but also concerns regarding balloon flight issues affecting the
nearby KBIL airspace. A motion was made by Gary Blain and seconded by Jim Wise and a
unanimous vote was taken to table the issue pending discussion and further research.
9. Prairie Dog update: Jim Schaak has a certified pest exterminator that he is familiar with who is
going to get a proposal to us for exterminating prairie dogs (all the way up to the gun
range). We have received nothing from him yet. Gary Blain has provided a reference to an
exterminator who did good work for a family member. Call “Jackie” at 307-949-0063.
10. Maintenance Minute …. Be advised of the following issues:
a. The SRE building could really use 3 garage door openers (to be installed on each of the 3
access doors that only can be opened manually). They are difficult and awkward to
open manually. Short term, Jim Wise and Ben Krause will adjust manually.
b. The diesel fuel trailer that is in the SRE building (and is used to fuel the tractors, snow
plow etc) needs a new electric fuel transfer pump. Murl will get an estimate for R or R.
c. The little red (Case) tractor needs work done (likely on the preheat system) as we are
having difficulty staring it. Murl thinks that the starter itself is ok. Murl will transport to
get a repair estimate.
A motion was made by Jim Wise and seconded by Gary Blain and a unanimous vote was taken to
get estimates regarding the costs associated with each of the above issues to help with direction
decisions.
Laurel Airport Authority
P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044
406-628-0172
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File Attachments for Item:
11. Revised Tree/Park Board Minutes of October 2, 2025.
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File Attachments for Item:
12. Tree/Park Board Minutes of November 6, 2025.
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File Attachments for Item:
13. Public Works Committee Minutes of October 20, 2025.
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File Attachments for Item:
14. City/County Planning Board Minutes of October 15, 2025.
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File Attachments for Item:
15. Appointment of Shane Lacasse to the Emergency Services Committee.
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File Attachments for Item:
16. Resolution No. R25-95: Resolution Of The City Council Authorizing The Mayor To Sign A
Memorandum Of Understanding For Operation And Cost Sharing For Public Transportation
Services With Allies In Aging.
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R25-95 Approve MOU Related to Public Transportation Services
RESOLUTION NO. R25-95
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN
A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING FOR OPERATION AND COST
SHARING FOR PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SERVICES WITH ALLIES IN
AGING.
WHEREAS, this Memorandum of Understanding (“Agreement”) is entered into
between Yellowstone County (“County”), the City of Billings (“Billings”) and the City of
Laurel (“Laurel”) (collectively “the Parties”) for purposes of creating and i mplementing
processes and procedures for complying with requirements set forth by the Montana Legislature
in the laws collectively known as House Bill 121 (“HB121”) during the 2021 Legislative
session;
WHEREAS, the County, Billings and Laurel are parties to the agreement that creates
the multi-jurisdictional service district created to provide health services and health department
functions known as the “Interlocal Agreement”;
WHEREAS, by virtue of HB121, the Parties are subject to various rights and
responsibilities created by the Interlocal Agreement; and
WHEREAS, it is the intent of the Parties to comply with HB121 and to set forth as
clearly as possible the methods of doing so for each as well as for the Parties collectively.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Laurel,
Montana:
Section 1: Approval. The Memorandum of Understanding by and between the City
and ARA of YC, a copy attached hereto and incorporated herein, is hereby approved.
Section 2: Execution. The Mayor is hereby given authority to execute the MOU on
behalf of the City.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 25th day of November 2025
by Council Member _____________________.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the Cit y of Laurel, Montana on the
25th day of November 2025.
APPROVED by the Mayor on the 25th day of November 2025.
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R25-95 Approve MOU Related to Public Transportation Services
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
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File Attachments for Item:
17. Resolution No. R25-96: A Resolution Of The City Council Authorizing The Mayor To
Execute An Independent Contractor Service Contract With Prorover.
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R25-96 Approve Independent Contractor Service Contract by and between the City of Laurel and Prorover
RESOLUTION NO. R25-96
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO
EXECUTE AN INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR SERVICE CONTRACT WITH
PROROVER.
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel, Montana,
Section 1: Approval. The Independent Contractor Service Contract by and between
the City of Laurel (hereinafter “the City”) and Prorover, attached hereto and incorporated
herein, is hereby approved.
Section 2: Execution. The Mayor is hereby given authority to execute the Independent
Contractor Service Contract with Prorover on behalf of the City.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 25th day of November 2025
by Council Member _____.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel on the 25th day of
November 2025.
APPROVED by the Mayor on the 25th day of November 2025.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
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Page 1 of 5
INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR SERVICE CONTRACT
This Contract is made and entered into this 25th day of November 2025, between the City of
Laurel, a municipal corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of Montana whose
address is P.O. Box 10, Laurel, Montana 59044, hereinafter referred to as “City” and Prorover, a
contractor licensed to conduct business in the State of Montana, whose address is 4431 Vaughn Lane,
Billings, MT 59101, hereinafter referred to as “Contractor”.
SECTION ONE
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES
A. Purpose. City shall hire Contractor as an independent contractor to perform for City the services
described in the Bid dated October 16, 2025, attached hereto as Exhibit “A” and by this reference made
part of this contract.
B. Effective Date. This contract is effective upon the date of its execution by both Parties. Contractor
shall complete the services within 60 days of commencing work. The parties may extend the term of
this contract in writing prior to its termination for good cause.
C. Scope of Work. Contractor shall perform his/her work and provide services in accordance with the
specifications and requirements of this contract, any applicable Montana Public Work Standard(s) and
Exhibit “A”.
SECTION TWO
CONTRACT PRICE
Payment. City shall pay Contractor eight thousand four hundred dollars and no cents ($8,400.00) for the
work described in Exhibit A. Any alteration or deviation from the described work that involves extra
costs must be executed only upon written request by the City to Contractor and will become an extra
charge over and above the contract amount. The parties must agree to extra payments or charges in
writing. Prior to final payment, Contractor shall provide City with an invoice for all charges.
SECTION THREE
CITY’S RESPONSIBILITIES
Upon completion of the contract and acceptance of the work, City shall pay Contractor the contract
price, plus or minus any additions or deductions agreed upon between the parties in accordance with
Sections one and two, if any.
SECTION FOUR
CONTRACTOR’S WARRANTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Independent Contractor Status. The parties agree that Contractor is an independent contractor for
purposes of this contract and is not to be considered an employee of the City for any purpose hereunder.
Contractor is not subject to the terms and provisions of the City’s personnel policies or handbook and
shall not be considered a City employee for workers’ compensation or any other purpose. Contractor
is not authorized to represent the City or otherwise bind the City in any dealings, agreements or sub-
contracts in any dealings between Contractor and any third parties. The City is interested solely in the
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results of this contract. Contractor is solely responsible for al l work and work product under this
contract, including techniques, sequences, procedures, and means. Contractor shall supervise and direct
the work to the best of his/her ability.
B. Wages and Employment. Contractor shall abide by all applicable State of Montana Rules,
Regulations and/or Statutes in regards to prevailing wages and employment requirements. Contractor
shall comply with the applicable requirements of the Workers’ Compensation Act. Contractor shall
maintain workers’ compensation coverage for all members and employees of his/her business, except
for those members who are exempted as independent contractors under the provisions of §39 -71-401,
MCA. Contractor understands that all contractors or subcontractors working on publicly funded
projects are required to have withheld from earnings a license fee of one percent (1%) of the gross
contract price if the gross contract price is Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) or more. This license fee is
paid to the Montana Department of Revenue pursuant to Montana law.
C. Unless otherwise specified by the terms of this Agreement, all materials and equipment used by
Contractor on the Construction Project shall be new and where not otherwise specified, of the most
suitable grade for their intended uses.
D. All workmanship and materials shall be of a kind and nature acceptable to the City.
E. All equipment, materials, and labor provided to, on, or for the Contract must be free of defects and
nonconformities in design, materials, and workmanship for a minimum period beginning with the
commencement of the work and ending one (1) year from completion and final acceptance by the City.
Upon receipt of City’s written notice of a defective or nonconforming condition during the warranty
period, Contractor shall take all actions, including redesign and replacement, to correct the defective or
nonconforming condition within a time frame acceptable to the City and at no additional cost to the
City. Contractor shall also, at its sole cost, perform any tests required by City to verify that such
defective or nonconforming condition has been corrected. Contractor warrants the corrective action
taken against defective and nonconforming conditions for a period of an additional one (1) year from
the date of City’s acceptance of the corrective action.
F. Contractor and its sureties are liable for the satisfaction and full performance of all warranties.
G. Contractor has examined the facilities and/or has made field examinations. Contractor has
knowledge of the services or project sought under this Contract and he/she further understands the site
conditions to be encountered during the performance of this Contract. Contractor has knowledge of the
types and character of equipment necessary for the work, the types of materials needed and the sources
of such materials, and the condition of the local labor market.
H. Contractor is responsible for the safety of the work and shall maintain all lights, guards, signs,
temporary passages, or other protections necessary for that purpose at all times.
I. All work is performed at Contractor’s risk, and Contractor shall promptly repair or replace all damage
and loss at its sole cost and expense regardless of the reason or cause of the damage or loss; provided,
however, should the damage or loss be caused by an intentional or negligent act of the City, the risk of
such loss shall be placed on the City.
J. Contractor is responsible for any loss or damage to materials, tools, work product or other articles
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used or held for use in the completion or performance of the Contract.
K. Title to all work, work product, materials and equipment covered by any payment of Contractor’s
compensation by City, whether directly incorporated into the Contract or not, passes to City at the time
of payment, free and clear of all liens and encumbrances.
SECTION FIVE
INDEMNITY AND INSURANCE
Contractor shall indemnify, defend and save City, its officers, agents and employees harmless from any
and all losses, damage and liability occasioned by, growing out of, or in any way arising or resulting
from any intentional or negligent act on the part of Contractor or its agents or employees.
SECTION SIX
COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS
Contractor shall comply with all federal, state, local laws, ordinances, rules and regulations. Contractor
shall either possess a City business license or shall purchase one, if a City Code requires a business
license.
SECTION SEVEN
NONDISCRIMINATION
Contractor agrees that any hiring of persons as a result of this contract must be on the basis of merit and
qualification and further that Contractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed,
political ideas, sex, age, marital status, physical or mental disability or national origin.
SECTION EIGHT
DEFAULT
If either party fails to comply with any term or condition of this Contract at the time or in the manner
provided for, the other party may, at its option, terminate this Contract and be released from all
obligations if the default is not cured within ten (10) days after written notice is provided to the
defaulting party. Said notice shall set forth the items to be cured. Additionally, the non-defaulting party
may bring suit for damages, specific performance, and any other remedy provided by law except for
punitive damages. The Parties hereby waive their respective claims for punitive damages. These
remedies are cumulative and not exclusive. Use of one remedy does not preclude use of t he others.
Notices shall be provided in writing and hand-delivered or mailed to the parties at the addresses set
forth in the first paragraph of this Contract.
SECTION NINE
TERMINATION
Either party may terminate the contract for their convenience upon thirty days written notice sent
postage prepaid, to the addresses provided herein.
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SECTION TEN
GOVERNING LAW AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION
The Parties agree that the laws of the State of Montana govern this Contract. The Parties agree that
venue is proper within the Courts of Yellowstone County, Montana. If a dispute arises, the Parties,
through a representative(s) with full authority to settle a dispute, shall meet and attempt to negotiate a
resolution of the dispute in good faith no later than ten business days after the dispute arises. If
negotiations fail, the Parties may utilize a third party mediator and equally share the costs of the
mediator or file suit.
SECTION ELEVEN
ATTORNEY FEES
If any action is filed in relation to this agreement, the unsuccessful party in the action shall pay to the
successful party, in addition to all sums that either is ordered to pay, a reasonable sum for the successful
party’s attorney’s fees and all costs charges and expenses related to the action.
SECTION TWELVE
ENTIRE AGREEMENT
This contract and its referenced attachment and Exhibit A contain the entire agreement and
understanding of the parties and supersede any and all prior negotiations or understandings relating to
this project. This contract shall not be modified, amended, or changed in any respect except through a
written document signed by each party’s authorized respective agents.
SECTION THIRTEENTH
ASSIGNMENT OF RIGHTS
The rights of each party under this Contract are personal to that party and may not be assigned or
transferred to any other person, firm, corporation, or other entity without the prior, express, and written
consent of the other party.
SECTION FOURTEEN
SEVERABILITY
Each provision, section, or subsection of this Contract shall stand separate and independent of every
other. In the event that a court of competent jurisdiction shall find any provision, section, or subsection
of this contract to be invalid, the remaining provisions, sections, and subsections of this contract shall
remain in full force and effect.
SECTION FIFTEEN
PARAGRAPH HEADINGS
The titles to the paragraphs of this contract are solely for the convenience of the parties and shall not be
used to explain, simplify, or aid in the interpretation of the provisions of this agreement.
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SIGNED AND AGREED BY BOTH PARTIES ON THE 25th DAY OF NOVEMBER 2025.
CITY OF LAUREL CONTRACTOR
___________________________________ __________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor Prorover
ATTEST: Employer Identification Number
___________________________________ __________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk/Treasurer
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File Attachments for Item:
18. Resolution No. R25-97: A Resolution Of The City Council Declaring Certain City Of Laurel
Property As “Surplus” Available For Sale Or Trade To The Public Or Other Governmental
Entities Or Vendors.
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R25-97 Approve Surplus Items and Sale and Disposal of Such
RESOLUTION NO. R25-97
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL DECLARING CERTAIN CITY OF
LAUREL PROPERTY AS “SURPLUS” AVAILABLE FOR SALE OR TRADE TO
THE PUBLIC OR OTHER GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES OR VENDORS.
WHEREAS, the City of Laurel has inventoried vehicles, equipment, and other items
that are no longer of use to the City; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with Mont. Code Ann. § 7-8-420(1), the City of Laurel City
Council has the authority to sell or otherwise dispose of the property by declaring it surplus;
and
WHEREAS, the surplus items shall be offered to the public for sale or utilized by the
City for purposes of trade or sale to obtain new equipment or property for use by the City of
Laurel.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel,
Montana that:
1. The City of Laurel City Council declares the property included on the attached
“Schedule A” as “surplus property” pursuant to Montana law; and
2. The Mayor and City Staff are authorized to dispose of the surplus property
through public sale or trade with any governmental entity or group in order to obtain new
property for City use.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 25th day of November 2025,
by Council Member _____.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel the 25th day of
November 2025.
APPROVED by the Mayor the 25th day of November 2025.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
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R25-97 Approve Surplus Items and Sale and Disposal of Such
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
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Exhibit A
2025 Fall Surplus Sale
2004 Ford Super Duty F 450 Braun
Ambulance
VIN# 1FDXF47P24EB33970
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File Attachments for Item:
19. Resolution No. R25-98: A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Laurel, Montana
Authorizing The Allocation Of Funds Towards The Purchase Of An Ambulance For The City.
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R25-98 Authorize Allocation of Funds to Ambulance Purchase
RESOLUTION NO. R25-98
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAUREL,
MONTANA AUTHORIZING THE ALLOCATION OF FUNDS TOWARDS THE
PURCHASE OF AN AMBULANCE FOR THE CITY.
WHEREAS, the City of Laurel has purchased an ambulance for the Laurel Emergency
Medical Service;
WHEREAS, the City may have proceeds related to the sale of a fire truck and trailer,
belonging to the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department City of Laurel Department;
WHEREAS, the City wishes to allocate the funds related to the sale of the fire truck
and trailer to the purchase of the ambulance for the Laurel Emergency Medical Services; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Staff recommend that the allocation of such funds is
in the best interests of the City and that the allocation of such funds will assist in funding the
purchase of the ambulance for the Laurel Emergency Medical Service.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel,
Montana, that the City Council authorizes the Mayor and the Clerk-Treasurer to allocate any
proceeds from the sale of the fire truck and trailer to the purchase of the ambulance for the
Laurel Emergency Medical Services.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 25th day of November, 2025,
by Council Member ________________.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel the 25th day of
November, 2025.
APPROVED by the Mayor the 25th day of November, 2025.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
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R25-98 Authorize Allocation of Funds to Ambulance Purchase
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
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File Attachments for Item:
20. Resolution No. R25-99: A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Laurel, Montana
Authorizing The Purchase Of Trailer From The City’s General Fund By The Water And Sewer
Enterprise Funds.
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R25-99 Authorize Purchase of Trailer by Water/Sewer Funds
RESOLUTION NO. R25-99
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAUREL,
MONTANA AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF TRAILER FROM THE CITY’S
GENERAL FUND BY THE WATER AND SEWER ENTERPRISE FUNDS.
WHEREAS, the City of Laurel, through its General Fund, holds and owns a trailer;
WHEREAS, the City wishes to transfer ownership of the trailer from the City’s General
Fund equally to the Water and Sewer Enterprise Funds; and
WHEREAS, each of the Water and Sewer Enterprise Funds will, respectively, purchase
the trailer by way of a payment of Five-Thousand Dollars ($5,000) from each Enterprise Fund
to the City’s General Fund.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel,
Montana, that the City Council authorizes purchase of the trailer from the City’s General Fund
by the Water and Sewer Enterprise Funds, for payment of Five-Thousand Dollars ($5,000)
from each Enterprise Fund to the City’s General Fund.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 25th day of November, 2025,
by Council Member ________________.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel the 25th day of
November, 2025.
APPROVED by the Mayor the 25th day of November, 2025.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
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R25-99 Authorize Purchase of Trailer by Water/Sewer Funds
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
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