HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Packet 02.10.2026
AGENDA
CITY OF LAUREL
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2026
6:30 PM
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
WELCOME . . . By your presence in the City Council Chambers, you are participating in the process of representative
government. To encourage that participation, the City Council has specified times for citizen comments on its agenda -- once
following the Consent Agenda, at which time citizens may address the Council concerning any brief community announcement
not to exceed one minute in duration for any speaker; and again following Items Removed from the Consent Agenda, at which
time citizens may address the Council on any matter of City business that is not on tonight’s agenda. Each speaker will be
limited to three minutes, unless the time limit is extended by the Mayor with the consent of the Council. Citizens may also
comment on any item removed from the consent agenda prior to council action, with each speaker limited to three minutes,
unless the time limit is extended by the Mayor with the consent of the Council. If a citizen would like to comment on an age nda
item, we ask that you wait until the agenda item is presented to the Council by the Mayor and the public is asked to comment
by the Mayor.
Any person who has any question concerning any agenda item may call the City Clerk -Treasurer's office to make an inquiry
concerning the nature of the item described on the agenda. Your City government welcomes your interest and hopes you will
attend the Laurel City Council meetings often.
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call of the Council
Approval of Minutes
1. Approval of Minutes of January 27, 2026.
Correspondence
2. Hurd Letter of Resignation from Cemetery Commission.
3. County Correspondence Appointing Mike Waters to the Laurel City County Planning.
4. Police Monthly Report - January 2026
5. Fire Monthly Report - December 2025.
6. FY27 CDS Application Correspondence
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.
7. Claims entered through February 6, 2026.
8. Approval of Payroll Register for PPE 2/1/2026 totaling $274,962.29.
Ceremonial Calendar
Reports of Boards and Commissions
9. Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of January 13, 2026.
10. Library Board Minutes of September 9, 2025.
11. Library Board Minutes of October 14, 2025.
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12. Library Board Minutes of November 11, 2025.
13. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of January 20, 2026.
14. Emergency Services Committee Minutes of January 26, 2026.
15. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of December 22, 2025.
16. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of January 12, 2026.
17. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of January 26, 2026.
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
18. Resolution No. R26-05: A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Laurel, Montana
Amending Resolution No. 25-75 And Affirming Continuation Of Services Under The Managed
Service Agreement For Renamed Systems Technology Consultants.
19. Resolution No. R26-06: A Resolution Of The City Council Approving A Transportation
Coordination Plan For The City Of Laurel Transit.
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 January 27, 2026.
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File Attachments for Item:
2. Hurd Letter of Resignation from Cemetery Commission.
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File Attachments for Item:
3. County Correspondence Appointing Mike Waters to the Laurel City County Planning.
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File Attachments for Item:
4. Police Monthly Report - January 2026
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Page 1 of 5
Total Calls City Council Printed on February 1, 2026
[CFS Date/Time] is between '2026-01-01 00:00:00' and '2026-01-31 23:59:59' and
[Primary Incident Code->Code : Description] All
Code : Description
Totals
10-15 : With Prisoner 1 1
: Abandoned Vehicle 18 18
: Agency Assist 69 69
: Alarm - Burglary 34 34
: Alarm - Fire 8 8
AMB : Ambulance 95 95
: Animal Complaint 6 6
: Area Check 14 14
: Assault 1 1
: Bad Checks 0 0
: Barking Dog 0 0
: Bomb Threat 0 0
: Burglary 0 0
: Child Abuse/Neglect 4 4
: Civil Complaint 8 8
: Code Enforcment Violation 2 2
: Community Integrated Health 0 0
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Page 2 of 5
Code : Description
Totals
: Counterfeiting 0 0
: Criminal Mischief 3 3
: Criminal Trespass 8 8
: Cruelty to Animals 2 2
: Curfew Violation 5 5
: Discharge Firearm 1 1
: Disorderly Conduct 12 12
: Dog at Large 17 17
: Dog Bite 0 0
DUI : DUI Driver 7 7
: Duplicate Call 3 3
: Escape 0 0
: Family Disturbance 6 6
: Fight 0 0
FIRE : Fire or Smoke 14 14
: Fireworks 0 0
: Forgery 0 0
: Found Property 6 6
: Fraud 4 4
: Harassment 4 4
: Hit & Run 3 3
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Page 3 of 5
Code : Description
Totals
: ICAC 0 0
: Identity Theft 0 0
: Indecent Exposure 0 0
: Insecure Premises 5 5
: Intoxicated Pedestrian 0 0
: Kidnapping 0 0
: Littering 0 0
: Loitering 1 1
: Lost or Stray Animal 8 8
: Lost Property 5 5
: Mental Health 6 6
: Missing Person 2 2
: Noise Complaint 2 2
: Open Container 0 0
: Order of Protection Violation 1 1
: Parking Complaint 9 9
: Possession of Alcohol 1 1
: Possession of Drugs 0 0
: Possession of Tobacco 0 0
: Privacy in Communications 0 0
: Prowler 0 0
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Page 4 of 5
Code : Description
Totals
: Public Assist 44 44
: Public Safety Complaint 12 12
: Public Works Call 9 9
: Report Not Needed 2 2
: Robbery 0 0
: Runaway Juvenile 5 5
: Sexual Assault 3 3
: Suicide 0 0
: Suicide - Attempt 1 1
: Suicide - Threat 5 5
: Suspicious Activity 53 53
: Suspicious Person 13 13
: Theft 29 29
: Threats 3 3
: Tow Call 0 0
: Traffic Accident 18 18
: Traffic Hazard 9 9
: Traffic Incident 10 10
: TRO Violation 0 0
: Truancy 1 1
T/S : Traffic Stop 173 173
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Page 5 of 5
Code : Description
Totals
: Unattended Death 2 2
: Unknown - Converted 0 0
: Unlawful Transactions w/Minors 0 0
: Unlawful Use of Motor Vehicle 0 0
: Vicious Dog 0 0
: Warrant 8 8
: Welfare Check 17 17
Totals 812 812
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File Attachments for Item:
5. Fire Monthly Report - December 2025.
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For the Month of:
CALLS *HOURS **
48 381Training200
581
Calls *
Hours **
Structure Fire calls relating to structures (civil or otherwise)
MVA
Wildland Fire relating to grass, brush, crops, or any vegetation. Would also include outdoor trash fire
Medical Assist Calls for Lift Assist and any assitance provided to EMS
Public Assist
Canceled Calls that got canceled while enroute to the scene of call
Alarm Calls in response to fire alarms, whether false or real
Laurel Fire Rescue
Dec-25
Announcements:
We are switching to Emergency Networking vs Emergency Reporting to support the change from
NFIRS(National Fire Information Reporting System) to NERIS (National Emergency Response Information
System)
Other Activities
Total Hours for the Month
Total
Fire calls relating to Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVA), and other calls that relate to modes of transportation (extrications, rescues, traffic control, etc..)
Calls relating to any public safety (power lines, downed trees, hazmat, gas/water/oil line breaks, etc..
Definitions
The total number of fire calls we received and responded to for the monthThe total number of man hours put in by the personnel for the number of calls responded to for the month
Structure, 4
Wildland, 6
Medical Assist, 8
MVA, 9
Public Assist, 15
Canceled, 2 Alarm, 4
Call Type Breakdown
Structure Wildland Medical Assist MVA Public Assist Canceled Alarm
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File Attachments for Item:
6. FY27 CDS Application Correspondence
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All deadlines, guidance, and requirements are subject to change in accordance with the Senate
Appropriations FY27 Guidance
Congressionally Directed Spending Requests (or “earmarks”)
• Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) is the Senate term for earmarks, while
Community Project Funding (CPF) is the House term
• Accounts accepting CDS/CPF projects are determined by the Appropriations
subcommittee and can change year to year
• They are funding opportunities for a specific recipient, in a specific location, for a
specific purpose
o “$825,000 for the City of Columbus to replace a sewer main”
o “$2,500,000 for the Milk River Irrigation Project Joint Board of Control to
modernize canal infrastructure”
o “$100,000 for the Treasure County Sheriff’s office to purchase new search and
rescue equipment”
Typical Timeline
• While each year’s timeline varies depending on Committee guidelines and past years’
funding (or Continuing Resolutions), we anticipate the Office of Senator Sheehy to
release applications in early spring, with an early-March deadline.
o Each project application will then undergo extensive review and consideration.
o We will notify applicants in the late spring if your project was submitted by
Senator Sheehy to the Senate Appropriations Committee.
o The Committee then determines which projects will be funded. Not all requests
submitted by Senator Sheehy will receive funding.
• Applicants are encouraged to contact the office (Appropriations@sheehy.senate.gov) as
early as possible for their mandatory, 15-minute project consultation call.
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All deadlines, guidance, and requirements are subject to change in accordance with the Senate
Appropriations FY27 Guidance
Things to Remember
• Only non-profit organizations and local, state, and Tribal governments are eligible to
submit projects.
o For-profit companies and corporations are not eligible.
• CDS is intended to be a one-time funding source.
• Successful projects will not receive funds for up to a year (or more) after the
appropriations bills are signed into law.
• Once a successful project is included in a final spending package, you will have to
complete a grant application with the agency before the funds are disbursed.
• Projects must comply with permitting and regulatory hurdles in order to receive funds.
• CDS funds cannot be used to reimburse expenses completed before final agency
approval.
• Every year the fiscal situation is different. We will help you adjust your funding request
to an appropriate level.
• Some subcommittees require matching funds – please read the guidance.
• Applicants are discouraged from applying for projects that
o Cover salaries and benefits for employees
o Are for beautification purposes
o Provide construction for jails, detention facilities, election facilities, or buildings
to conduct local government services
• Projects should have broad community support
o Applicants will be required to submit a minimum of 5 letters of community
support with their application
• CDS is a funding opportunity, not a guarantee.
Resources
• To view projects submitted by Senator Sheehy in FY26, please visit our website:
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/services/appropriations-cds-requests/
• To view general guidance and projects approved by the Senate Appropriations
Committee, please visit the Senate Appropriations website:
https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/fy-2026-appropriations-requests-and-
congressionally-directed-spending
Questions or Interest in Applying?
Please contact Meredith Moore at Appropriations@sheehy.senate.gov
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FY27 CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED SPENDING
REQUEST FORM
Please be on the lookout for emails from Appropriations@sheehy.senate.gov regarding
guidelines, information, and submission dates as they are made available.
Overview:
The office of Senator Tim Sheehy will only consider Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS)
proposals that:
1. Support the constituents, industries, and resources of Montana
2. Are submitted by 501(c)(3) organizations and local, state, and Tribal governments.
Requests made by for-profit entities are NOT permitted.
Congressionally Directed Spending Requests MUST meet all guidelines established by the
Senate Appropriations Committee to be accepted, in addition to:
Requestor must submit FIVE letters of community support to the office of Senator
Sheehy for the request to be considered.
The project and requesting entity must have NO financial ties to the Senator or his
family.
Funding must be for FY27 only.
Requestor must understand that CDS funds are one-time funding sources and the project
should be sustainable beyond this funding.
If the project would normally require a funding match or cost share by a non-federal
entity, then the requesting entity will need to demonstrate that it can provide this match if
it makes a CDS request.
Please schedule your mandatory consultation call with Meredith Moore at
Appropriations@sheehy.senate.gov to discuss your project(s) before
submitting this application.
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REQUEST FORM
Requesting Organization Info
Name of Requesting Organization/Entity:
Are you a non-profit or government entity? (You must be a 501(c)(3) or government entity
to be eligible for CDS funds)
Yes
No
Address of Organization:
Requesting Entity Employer Identification Number (EIN):
Project Point of Contact for Request (This cannot be a registered lobbyist)
Please note that our staff may need to contact this person outside of normal business hours.
Name:
Title:
Organization:
Address:
Phone:
Email Address:
Second Project Point of Contact for Request
Please note that our staff may need to contact this person outside of normal business hours.
Name:
Title:
Organization:
Address:
Phone:
Email Address:
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Project Information
Project Name:
Website for project or entity:
Purpose of Project (please keep to 1-2 paragraphs):
Please list other organizations or partners you are working with on this project:
Requested FY27 Funding Amount:
Was your project included in an FY26 Appropriations bill?
Yes
No
Have you submitted a request from this organization before? If so, for which funding year?
Have you submitted a request for this project before? If so, for which funding year?
Project Location
Is the project statewide?
Yes
No
Postal Address of Project (If no address available, please provide detailed description of
location of project):
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Congressionally Directed Spending Request
Based off the FY25 and FY26 Senate Appropriations Committee guidance, we anticipate the
Committee will accept CDS Requests for the following Accounts (FY26 guidance for reference):
Select the appropriations bill that you are requesting funds from:
Agriculture
Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies
Energy and Water Development
Financial Services and General Government
Homeland Security
Interior, Environment and Related Agencies
Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies
Military Construction and Veterans Affairs
Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies
Subcommittee (refer to guidance):
Agency (refer to guidance):
SUPPORTING INFORMATION:
The Build America, Buy America Act requires that all infrastructure projects funded with federal
assistance use only iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials produced in
the United States. This requirement applies to articles, materials, and supplies that are consumed
in, incorporated into, or affixed to an infrastructure project. If you are submitting a CDS request
for funding for an infrastructure project, please take this requirement into account.
1. Total funding request:
2. Total project cost:
3. Will the project, if funded, become self-sustaining after a defined period of time?
Yes
No
4. How would this project benefit the public and why is it a responsible use of taxpayer
dollars?
5. Why should this request be considered a priority for the people of Montana?
6. List any stakeholders that support this request.
Five letters of support should be attached to the email in which you submit this application.
7. Is this a new or ongoing project?
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8. Is this project an eligible purpose under the relevant federal program?
9. If yes, please justify the project's eligibility. Include the appropriate statutory, CFR, or
other agency guidance citation, including the relevant language justifying eligibility.
This information is found in the Committee’s guidance packets for each subcommittee.
10. Estimated Start Date for the Project (if applicable):
11. Estimated Completion Date for the Project (if applicable):
FY27 Project Cost Breakdown
1. Please provide a description of how this funding would be utilized:
2. Construction/Renovation Costs (please state dollar amounts numerically and how the
funds will be spent):
3. Supplies and Equipment Costs (please state dollar amounts numerically and how the
funds will be spent):
4. Travel Costs (please state dollar amounts numerically and how the funds will be spent):
5. Other Costs- including salaries and benefits (please state dollar amounts numerically
and how the funds will be spent):
6. Please indicate how current these budget estimates are (month/date/year):
7. Can the project proceed if the Appropriations Committee cannot fully fund the
request?
Yes
No
8. Will this project require additional federal dollars in later fiscal years?
9. Has this project been submitted to a congressional office in prior fiscal years?
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10. Has this project received Congressional Directed Spending funds in the past?
11. Is your project included in a state plan?
12. Is this project currently authorized in law? If so, where? If not applicable, please write
“N/A”.
13. If this project has received any funding in the past, from either a public or private
source, please detail that here:
14. If this project is awaiting federal or state grant funding from another program or
source, please detail that here:
15. Please list any additional sources of funding the program has already received and the
status of the funding (e.g. application submitted, funding awarded, funding received):
16. Can the receiving entity meet a 50% cost-share (or match) of the total project cost?
Yes
No
17. Can the receiving entity meet a 25% cost-share (or match) of the total project cost?
Yes
No
Other Information
1. Are there any local concerns or existing derogatory information that would render the
entity or project potentially unsuitable for receiving congressionally directed spending
funds? Please explain if applicable.
2. If submitting multiple requests, please rank this request in terms of priority:
Organizations are limited to three requests for FY27.
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2
3
3. Please list all Members of both the United States House of Representatives and United
States Senate who are receiving this request:
4. Letters of Support Contact Information:
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5. Please list all the attachments you are submitting with your request:
Please only submit PDF documents containing letters of support, maps, photos of the project,
and supplemental information.
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File Attachments for Item:
9. Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of January 13, 2026.
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File Attachments for Item:
10. Library Board Minutes of September 9, 2025.
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File Attachments for Item:
11. Library Board Minutes of October 14, 2025.
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File Attachments for Item:
12. Library Board Minutes of November 11, 2025.
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File Attachments for Item:
13. Laurel Airport Authority Minutes of January 20, 2026.
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Meeting Minutes - January 20, 2026
Roll Call: Doug Myers, Jim Wise, Gary Blain, Joe Mutchler, Randy Hand (All members
present)
Public Members Present: Jacob Schneller, Brad Sinclair, Fred Lee, Ed Taylor
Approved without exception: Minutes from previous meeting: 12/16/2025
Financial Update:
• Balance Sheet discussed (As of Dec 31 2025)
• Profit & Loss discussed (Jan thru Dec 2025)
• Per Joe Mutchler:
o We are at a decision point where we need to develop a path forward re
financing. Our current funding may accommodate GA activities, but will not
cover growth enough to bring in corp. or jet traffic. We are really growth limited
right now financially. Any expenses above normal will be a financial issue.
o We should have an airport wide discussion with all users to get their opinions.
o In the future, because we are “developed” (with regard to hangars) we will have
to use our own funding to conduct taxilane work and not grant money. We will
not be able to use main taxiway funds to do interior taxilane project work.
o We need ideas regarding our financial path forward:
▪ Should we charge transient landing fees? MT Aeronautics may encourage.
▪ Montana Aeronautics have 3% interest loans available nut must be repaid.
Consider loans to build hangars (commercial?) to raise revenue?
▪ Consider charging frequent users of 6S8 like Rocky or Billings Flying
Services? The Chinooks are about 50,000 # and doing RW damage?
▪ Could Tim Sheehy’s office be contacted and of help?
▪ BLM was contacted but no commitment was made re firefighting staging.
▪ Would DNRC be a possibility?
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Claims: Reviewed & Approved (Joe / Doug): Summary of checks paid discussed
Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items: Please limit to 3 minutes
Discussions:
• Brad Sinclair has dropped off two sets of plans for his proposed building to be erected
on 2615 Cory. He has requested a tan exterior color. Unanimous vote was taken (Joe /
Ji) to require all new buildings on Cory to be white in color.
• Ed Taylor requests that (for 2405 DeFrance) he be given an opportunity to allow his own
contractor (Brain Hein) to develop drainage plan rather than rely exclusively on KLJ (and
be subject to their pricing). As bottom-most lot on that row, Ed should not have to bear
cost of any “uphill” mis-handled hangar drainage issues. Brian Hein will examine system
on 1/30.
Public Comment on Agenda Items: Please limit to 3 minutes
Reports: KLJ Engineering-Master Plan and Construction Report
• The LAA Board and Cory lot leasers need to decide on KLJ providing “full services” vs
only lot a corner info.
• A motion was made and unanimously approved (Jim / Doug) to allow Joe Mutchler to
sign lot leases for Cory projects.
• Bill Austin needs to affirm that he will be leasing a lot on Cory.
• We may be eligible for SRE and mowing equipment grant money (Based on KLJ calc’s).
KLJ WORK IN PROGRESS
Laurel Airport Master Plan Update
KLJ # 2105-00217 AIP 3-30-0047-024-2022
KLJ has completed the Airport Master Plan (AMP) and Airport Layout Plan (ALP) updates, and the ALP
has received FAA approval. KLJ will now proceed into the project closeout phase to finalize all activities
associated with the grant.
Laurel Pavement Maintenance
KLJ #2305-01826 AIG #3-30-0047-025-2024
American Road Maintenance of Tucson, Arizona, served as the contractor for the project. The project
has achieved full completion, and final acceptance has been executed by all parties. KLJ has prepared
the project closeout report and submitted a draft to Helena ADO for review. In addition, the grant
amendment letter, signed by the Airport Board Chair, was submitted in early October for approval and
has since been approved. Pay Estimate No. 3 will serve as the final payment, thereby satisfying all
remaining financial obligations to the contractor. KLJ will proceed with finalizing the final pay estimate,
completing the closeout process, and compiling the final project closeout report.
Laurel Access Road - Design and Construction
KLJ #2405-01024 AIG #3-30-0047-0026-2025
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The project is currently in the design phase, with construction anticipated for the summer of 2026 under
a separate grant. The design is approximately 90 percent complete. A final survey is planned to obtain
additional data on the existing access road to support completion of the final design. Upon receipt of
this data, the plans will be finalized and prepared for final review and the engineer’s stamp.
At this time, work is ongoing on the Final Design, Bidding, Construction Administration and Observation,
and Closeout scopes of services. Once the solicitation for asphalt testing is issued, the scope of work can
be fully completed, and it will be determined whether this phase will require an Independent Fee
Estimate (IFE). Staff will continue advancing the design and FAA Grant Applications in order to be
prepared for bidding in late winter or early spring.
OTHER ITEMS
• KLJ #2405-01024 Access Road Final Design & CACO for 2026. MDT Aero Draft grant application
has been completed and submitted to the MDT Aeronautics Board.
• Cory Hangar – Task Order Agreements – Draft Agreement has been completed Signatures on
January 26th 2026.
• DeFrance Hanger for Ed Taylor - Task Order Agreements – Draft Agreement has been completed
Signatures on January 26th 2026.
2 ITEMS REQUIRING ACTION BY CITY/AIRPORT
• Completion of SF271 for RFR 3 (Design Grant – Access Road)
• Delphi Access Authorization Signature for Sheila
• KLJ Invoices
ITEMS REQUIRING ACTION BY CITY/AIRPORT
• Completion of SF271 for RFR 3 (Design Grant – Access Road)
• Delphi Access Authorization Signature for Sheila
• KLJ Invoices
Maintenance Report:
• The smaller “little red” Case tractor was having starter issues and Murl transported it to
Galvin Repair to be fixed. The cost of the repair was $175.
• Jim Wise is in contact with Mead Lumber about the garage door opener options for the
three garage doors at the SRE building. They would be @$2,273 for three (estimate
attached). Jim Wise and Ben Krause can install them. Voted (Gary / Randy) unanimously
to approve installation. Approx. two weeks for delivery. Randy offered to run power to
the openers.
• Murl ordered, received, and installed replacement blade edges for the large snow plow.
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New Business:
a. Airport entry gate operational concerns: The gate is operating properly, but is deflected at
the top of its open cycle (when the wind is strong) and it closes improperly then into its catch at
the bottom. We discussed option of installing a kill switch to allow the gate to be operationally
locked out and signage displayed to direct traffic into and out of the manually gate nearby (to the
north). Randy will look into an option of a wind sensor. Maybe there is an internal shutoff
which could be mounted externally(shutting down both AC power supply, as well as backup
battery power).
b. Perimeter Fence Integrity: Jim Wise has communicated to Heath Olson that (following the
high wind event which removed Heath’s hangar roof) that he needs to repair sections of the fence
where Heath’s roofing panels blew into the fence and broke section of the fencing lose from the
posts. Heath assured Jim that he had tuned the issue into his insurance company. If Heath or his
insurance company do not take action, Jim Wise will call him again.
c. Jacob Schneller Ag Spray Operation: Jacob has provided copies of an operating plan and
business summary with schematics of proposed loading area north of Jim Schaak’s area. Jim is
leasing his area from the FBO and Jacob will be leasing from the airport. Both at same cost rate.
Jacob Schneller and Jim Schaak leases are identical with the exception of actual areas leased, and
“owners” of the ramp spaces used (FBO vs Airport). A unanimous vote (Gary /Randy) was taken
to approve Jacob’s Ag Spray operation at 6S8.
d. FBO and Airport Ramp Security Cameras. Previous Bret McKenney and Doug Myers
discussion: Maybe airport and FBO should share costs on security cameras installed to view
FBO parking area, main entry gate area, FBO and airport ramps areas? We need to find an
“expert” who could consult with us on cameras, motion sensors, connecting to internet etc.
e. WX info for METAR publication: Both John Roberts and Doug Myers contacted AWI and
they activated our service to the METAR system so now our automated weather info is
automatically published as a METAR for Garmin Pilot, Foreflight use etc.
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Old Business:
a. Airport webpage moving to the City of Laurel: We can’t use City servers. They are
contract servers with another provider and there is no space for us on them.
b. Airport webpage links for hangar development and registration: Randy is in talks with
Brock Williams and the City of Laurel.
c. Abandoned aircraft on FBO ramp: The Piper Tomahawk is owned by Bret Nd Tom and
they have pledged to remove it. They are actively trying to sell it now. A sale fell trough
recently to a buyer in Circle, MT. The Bonanza is owned by a man with medical problems and
who is in a facility for care. Bret is in talks with his brother and making an active attempt to
purchase the Bonanza from him. Bret will keep us apprised of the progress. He has informed
the brother that the LAA Board is intent on have both airplanes removed, certainly by next snow
season.
d. FAA compliance: Joe is in communication with Mandi in Seattle with the FAA. She is
reviewing his latest edits of our Minimum Operating Standards revisions, and we hope to soon
have her closure on the issue.
Laurel Airport Authority
P.O. Box 242 Laurel, MT 59044
406-628-0172
Doug Myers
LAA Board Secretary
406-633-5299
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File Attachments for Item:
14. Emergency Services Committee Minutes of January 26, 2026.
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File Attachments for Item:
15. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of December 22, 2025.
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File Attachments for Item:
16. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of January 12, 2026.
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File Attachments for Item:
17. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of January 26, 2026.
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File Attachments for Item:
18. Resolution No. R26-05: A Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Laurel, Montana
Amending Resolution No. 25-75 And Affirming Continuation Of Services Under The Managed
Service Agreement For Renamed Systems Technology Consultants.
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R26-05 Approve Amendment of Agreement and Resolution Regarding Technology Services
RESOLUTION NO. R26-05
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAUREL,
MONTANA AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 25-75 AND AFFIRMING
CONTINUATION OF SERVICES UNDER THE MANAGED SERVICE
AGREEMENT FOR RENAMED SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY CONSULTANTS.
WHEREAS, the City Council approved a Managed Service Agreement with Morrison-
Maierle Systems Technology Consultant on August 26, 2025;
WHEREAS, Morrison- Maierle Systems Technology Consultants has now changed its
name to Systems Technology Consultants; and
WHEREAS, the City wishes to continue to work under the Managed Service
Agreement approved by City Council, but under the new approved business name of Systems
Technology Consultants.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel,
Montana, that the City amends Resolution No. 25-75 to reflect that the continuation of services
is approved, and that the new name for the services contract is Systems Technology
Consultants.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 10th day of February, 2026,
by Council Member ________________.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel the 10th day of
February, 2026.
APPROVED by the Mayor the 10th day of February, 2026.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
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R26-05 Approve Amendment of Agreement and Resolution Regarding Technology Services
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
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File Attachments for Item:
19. Resolution No. R26-06: A Resolution Of The City Council Approving A Transportation
Coordination Plan For The City Of Laurel Transit.
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R26-06 Approve Transportation Coordination Plan
RESOLUTION NO. R26-06
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVING A TRANSPORTATION
COORDINATION PLAN FOR THE CITY OF LAUREL TRANSIT.
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel, Montana,
Section 1: Approval. The Transportation Coordination Plan for the City of Laurel
Transit (hereinafter “Transportation Coordination Plan”), a copy attached hereto and
incorporated herein, is hereby approved.
Section 2: Execution. The Mayor is hereby given authority to execute the
Transportation Coordination Plan on behalf of the City.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 10th day of February 2026,
by Council Member ________________.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel the 10th day of
February 2025.
APPROVED by the Mayor the 10th day of February 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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TRANSPORTATION COORDINATION PLAN
LAUREL TRANSIT
MONTANA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION
FY-27
Prepared by:
City of Laurel
Kelly Strecker, Clerk/Treasurer
Scheduled for City Council Adoption: February 10, 2026
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Montana Coordination Plan Outline
Adoption by Transportation Advisory Committee:
The relevant transportation providers and agencies are described in more detail.
Laurel Transit:
Laurel Transit (also referred to as the transit system) is working to provide a successful on-
demand service for public transportation within the City limits of Laurel while offering regular
service to Billings. Laurel Transit is looking to contract with as many agencies in the area as
possible to provide expanded service. It is currently not feasible for Laurel to have a fixed route
system; however, accommodations for such a system are being discussed such as bus benches
and signs within the City.
Laurel Transit Schedules:
Laurel Transit operates Monday-Friday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. The Billings service route begins at
7:30 and in-town service begins at 10:00 am. Appointments are taken Monday-Friday 8:00 AM-
5:00PM. Billings buses run only on Tuesday’s.
Laurel Transit Fleet:
Laurel Transit has 3 vehicles in our fleet.
2009 Dodge Sprinter: 10 Passenger Van. Mileage is 98,000 and is ADA compliant.
2023 Transit Van: 13 Passenger Van. This is our newest Van. Mileage in under 6,000 and is ADA
compliant.
2024 Endra Van: This is 14 Passenger Van. Mileage is 9,000 and is ADA compliant.
Agencies Involved:
Allies in Aging (formally ARA of YC)-- has partnered with the City of Laurel to provide the
drivers for the buses and the cell phones. Allies in Aging previously operated the senior
bus in Laurel, which was absorbed with the formation of Laurel Transit. The City works
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very closely with Allies in Aging to ensure the level of service delivered through the
senior bus program is continued in Laurel Transit .
Tender Nest Assisted Living—Contact with Tender Nest Assisted Living continues, and
the facility has contracted with the City for vouchers.
COR – There is a plan to include COR in future TAC meetings.
Riverstone Health – The transit system is working to contract demand/response service
for Riverstone Health patients.
Laurel Senior Center – The Ford Endura and the Transit buses currently stored in a
garage at the Senior Center. The Dodge Springer is currently being stored at the City
Shop garage. Frequent trips are taken to the senior center for rider visits.
Laurel Health and Rehab- Continues to utilize the bus service for transportation
purposes for their clients and residents.
MET- contact with MET in Billings has been made in hopes to grow the Laurel Transit
system and gain new ideas.
Public Involvement:
The Transportation Advisory Committee meets quarterly. Meetings notices are published on
the City of Laurel website and at City Hall. Meetings are open to the general public. For more
participation at TAC meetings, more community outreach will be done to involve public
participation.
Private Sector:
The City of Laurel does not have any private transportation system available.
Needs Assessment and Plan to Increase Ridership:
Laurel Transit will be starting focus groups this fiscal year in order to determine the needs of
the community and their transit provider. The focus groups will include current riding members,
City staff, other transportation providers, healthcare employers, and other members from the
community. The groups will focus on the current challenges the transit program faces and get a
better idea of how to improve the system.
The Laurel Transit System has stepped up its ad vertising strategies by designing and distributing
flyers with route information and publishing that flyer in the Yellowstone County News on a
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regular basis. There have been talks with Allies in Aging regarding placing advertisements on
the new transit bus. This type of advertisement may be an option for other local businesses.
Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) Meetings:
The Laurel TAC meets on a quarterly basis. The TAC is comprised of City staff, community
interested members and representatives from Residential Support Services, Allies in Aging, and
other interested parties. For more participation at TAC meetings, more community outreach
will be done to involve public participation.
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