HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Packet 03.24.2026
AGENDA
CITY OF LAUREL
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 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
Correspondence
1. Beartooth RC&D Correspondence - March 2026.
2. Allies in Aging Correspondence
3. Letter of Representation - Laurel Public Schools
4. Public Comments Received
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 March 20, 2026.
6. Approval of Payroll Register for PPE 3/15/2026 totaling $261,578.90.
7. Revised Council Workshop Minutes of January 6, 2026.
8. Revised Council Workshop Minutes of January 20, 2026.
Ceremonial Calendar
Reports of Boards and Commissions
9. Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of March 10, 2026.
10. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of March 9, 2026.
11. Public Works Committee Minutes of March 16, 2026.
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12. Tree/Park Board Minutes 3.5.2026.
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
Items Removed From the Consent Agenda
Community Announcements (One-Minute Limit)
This portion of the meeting is to provide an opportunity for citizens to address the Council regarding community
announcements. The duration for an individual speaking under Community Announcements is limited to one minute. While
all comments are welcome, the Council will not take action on any item not on the agenda.
Council Discussion
Council members may give the City Council a brief report regarding committees or groups in which they are involved.
Mayor Updates
Unscheduled Matters
Adjournment
The City makes reasonable accommodations for any known disability that may interfere with a person’s ability to participate
in this meeting. Persons needing accommodation must notify the City Clerk’s Office to make needed arrangements. To make
your request known, please call 406-628-7431, Ext. 2, or write to City Clerk, PO Box 10, Laurel, MT 59044, or present your
request at City Hall, 115 West First Street, Laurel, Montana.
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File Attachments for Item:
1. Beartooth RC&D Correspondence - March 2026.
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Beartooth RC&D
BROWNFIELDS REVOLING LOAN FUND
PROGRAM GUIDELINES
Document estabilished 2/25/2026
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Beartooth Resource Conservation & Development Area, Inc.
Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund (RLF)
Policies & Procedures Manual
This Policies & Procedures Manual is a living document intended to guide the administration of
Beartooth RC&D’s Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund (RLF). It may be updated periodically to
reflect changes in EPA guidance, Montana DEQ requirements, organizational structure, or
Board-adopted program refinements. Any substantive changes will be documented, dated, and
approved by the Beartooth RC&D Board of Directors.
Section 1. Purpose, Authority & Program Overview
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of the Beartooth RC&D Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) is to facilitate the
cleanup and redevelopment of brownfield sites by providing low-interest loans and limited
subgrants to eligible entities for eligible environmental cleanup activities. The program is
intended to reduce environmental risk, promote economic revitalization, and return underutilized
or contaminated properties to productive use across Beartooth RC&D’s five-county service area.
1.2 Statutory Authority
The RLF is authorized under Section 104(k) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), as amended by the Small Business Liability Relief
and Brownfields Revitalization Act of 2002 and the Brownfields Utilization, Investment, and
Local Development (BUILD) Act of 2018. Funding for this RLF is provided by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including funds made available through the
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
1.3 Service Area
The Beartooth RC&D Brownfields RLF serves communities within Big Horn, Carbon,
Stillwater, Sweet Grass, and the rural areas of Yellowstone County, including eligible tribal lands
within the Crow and Northern Cheyenne Reservations, subject to EPA approval.
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Section 2. Governance & Program Administration
2.1 Fiscal Agent
Beartooth Resource Conservation & Development Area, Inc. (Beartooth RC&D) serves as the
fiscal agent and primary administrator of the Brownfields RLF and is responsible for compliance
with all cooperative agreement requirements.
2.2 Board of Directors
The Beartooth RC&D Board of Directors retains ultimate fiduciary responsibility for the
Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund (RLF). The Board formally delegates primary program
review and oversight responsibilities to the Brownfields Committee, while reserving final
authority for approvals, policy adoption, and material amendments as required by organizational
bylaws, EPA cooperative agreement terms, and state or federal law.
Specifically, the Board of Directors:
1. Adopts and amends this Policies & Procedures Manual;
2. Approves Brownfields RLF loans, subgrants, and material policy deviations upon
recommendation of the Brownfields Committee, unless authority is expressly delegated
by Board resolution;
3. Ensures compliance with EPA cooperative agreement requirements and fiduciary
standards.
2.3 Brownfields Committee
The Brownfields Committee is delegated authority by the Beartooth RC&D Board of Directors
to review, approve, and deny Brownfields RLF loan and subgrant applications in accordance
with this Policies & Procedures Manual and the terms of the EPA cooperative agreement.
The Committee acts as the primary decision-making body for the Brownfields RLF and is
responsible for ensuring that all funding decisions are environmentally eligible, financially
sound, and consistent with community priorities and EPA requirements.
Specifically, the Brownfields Committee shall:
• Review complete loan and subgrant applications.
• Evaluate environmental eligibility, financial feasibility, and risk.
• Consider recommendations from staff and the Qualified Environmental Professional
(QEP).
• Approve, conditionally approve, or deny applications.
• Document decisions and the rationale for those decisions in meeting minutes.
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• Recommend policy updates or clarifications to the Board of Directors as needed.
All Committee decisions shall be reported to the Beartooth RC&D Board of Directors for
information and oversight. The Board retains authority over adoption of policies, material
amendments, and fiduciary oversight but does not re-adjudicate individual funding decisions
unless required by law or cooperative agreement conditions.
2.4 Program Staff Roles
Finance Director & Brownfields Coordinator
1. Serves as primary RLF Manager
2. Oversees financial management, underwriting, and compliance
3. Acts as EPA point of contact
4. Coordinates ACRES reporting and recordkeeping
Economic Development Director
1. Assists with project evaluation, outreach, and borrower support
2. Coordinates with local governments, tribes, and partners
Brownfields Program Assistant / Project Manager (if applicable)
1. Supports application intake, file management, and reporting
2.5 Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP)
Beartooth RC&D shall retain or designate a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) to
provide technical oversight of cleanup activities. Cleanups will typically be conducted under the
oversight of the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), including enrollment in
the Montana Voluntary Cleanup Program (VCP), where applicable.
2.6 EPA and State Oversight
EPA maintains substantial involvement in the RLF program, including site eligibility
determinations, approval of subgrants, and review of reporting and cleanup documentation.
Montana DEQ provides regulatory oversight and technical review of cleanup activities.
Section 3. Ethical Conduct, Conflicts of Interest & Confidentiality
3.1 Ethical Standards
All Board members, committee members, staff, and contractors involved in the RLF shall adhere
to applicable federal, state, and organizational ethics standards.
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3.2 Conflict of Interest
Any individual involved in reviewing or approving an RLF application who has a real or
perceived conflict of interest shall disclose that conflict in writing and recuse themselves from
discussion and decision-making related to the application.
3.3 Confidentiality
Loan and subgrant applications, financial records, and proprietary information shall be treated as
confidential and accessed only by authorized personnel. Public reporting will be provided in
aggregate or summary form as required by EPA.
Section 4. Eligible Applicants & Site Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants may include:
• Local governments
• Tribal governments and entities
• Nonprofit organizations
• Eligible private entities, subject to EPA approval
Applicants must not be potentially responsible parties (PRPs) under CERCLA §107 and must not
be suspended or debarred from federal programs.
4.2 Eligible Sites
Eligible sites must meet the definition of a brownfield site under CERCLA §101(39) and receive
EPA site-specific approval prior to funding.
4.3 Ineligible Sites
RLF funds may not be used at:
• National Priorities List (NPL) sites
• Sites subject to CERCLA enforcement actions
• Sites deemed ineligible by EPA
Section 5. Eligible Cleanup Activities
RLF funds may be used only for eligible cleanup activities at eligible brownfield sites as defined
under CERCLA §101(39) and approved by EPA.
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5.1 Allowable Activities
Allowable cleanup costs may include:
• Excavation, removal, consolidation, or treatment of contaminated soil.
• Removal of underground or aboveground storage tanks as part of cleanup.
• Abatement of hazardous building materials (e.g., asbestos, lead-based paint) when
necessary to facilitate cleanup.
• Capping, containment, or engineering controls.
• Site monitoring and sampling necessary during cleanup.
• Development of cleanup plans, Analysis of Brownfield Cleanup Alternatives (ABCA),
and Quality Assurance Project Plans (QAPPs).
• Environmental insurance, where appropriate.
• Demolition or site preparation only when directly tied to and necessary for
environmental remediation.
5.2 Prohibited Uses
RLF funds may not be used for:
• Pre-cleanup site assessments unrelated to cleanup.
• Administrative penalties or fines.
• Costs inconsistent with EPA cooperative agreement requirements.
• Activities at sites deemed ineligible by EPA.
Section 6. Loans vs Subgrants
6.1 Loans
Loans are the primary funding mechanism of Brownfields RLF. Loans shall be structured to
promote repayment and long-term sustainability of the fund.
6.2 Subgrants
Subgrants may be awarded in limited circumstances and must comply with EPA statutory and
cooperative agreement limitations. Subgrants:
• May only be awarded to eligible nonprofit organizations, tribal entities, or local
governments.
• Must involve sites owned by the subgrant recipient at the time of award.
• Require EPA approval prior to award.
• Shall be used solely for eligible cleanup activities.
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Subgrant Cap
Total subgrant awards under this cooperative agreement shall not exceed the amount allocated
for subgrants in the EPA-approved workplan and budget, currently $258,450 (approximately
26% of total capitalization), unless amended in writing by EPA.
The Brownfields Committee intends to maintain subgrant utilization at or below 30% of total
capitalization to preserve long-term revolving capacity and sustainability of the RLF.
The Brownfields Committee shall evaluate subgrant requests with heightened scrutiny due to the
non-revolving nature of such awards.
Section 7. Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a complete application package prior to Committee review. Required
documentation may include:
• Completed RLF Application Form.
• Project narrative and redevelopment plan.
• Cleanup documentation (ABCA, draft Cleanup Plan, QAPP if available);
• Evidence of site control.
• Financial statements (3 years historical if available).
• Personal or corporate tax returns as applicable.
• Pro forma projections.
• Description of collateral.
• Authorization to obtain credit reports.
• Documentation demonstrating needs for RLF financing.
Incomplete applications will not be scheduled for Committee review.
Section 8. Underwriting & Review Process
8.1 Staff Review
Program staff shall conduct financial and environmental due diligence, including:
• Credit analysis.
• Cash flow analysis.
• Debt service coverage assessment.
• Collateral valuation review.
• Environmental eligibility confirmation with QEP and EPA.
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Debt Service Coverage Standard
For loan applicants with operating history, a minimum Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) of
1.20:1 based on projected stabilized cash flow is required, unless the Committee determines that
compensating factors justify an exception. Strong preference will be given to projects
demonstrating a DSCR of 1.25:1 or greater.
For start-ups, nonprofits, or special-purpose redevelopment entities, alternative measures of
financial capacity may be considered, including grant leverage, committed equity, municipal
backing, or other demonstrated repayment support.
8.2 Committee Review
The Brownfields Committee shall review the full application package and staff analysis.
Decisions shall be based on:
• Environmental eligibility.
• Financial feasibility.
• Risk mitigation.
• Alignment with community redevelopment priorities.
• Compliance with EPA requirements.
EPA Substantial Involvement
Consistent with CERCLA §104(k) and the EPA cooperative agreement, EPA maintains
substantial involvement in the Brownfields RLF. Prior to loan or subgrant award, the following
may require EPA review or competition:
• Site eligibility determinations.
• Subgrant approvals.
• Analysis of Brownfield Cleanup Alternatives (ABCA);
• Cleanup plans and QAPP approvals.
• Any material deviations from approved workplans.
No loan or subgrant funds shall be disbursed until required EPA and regulatory approvals have
been obtained.
Decisions shall be documented in official meeting minutes.
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Section 9. Loan Terms & Structure
Loan terms shall be tailored to project needs while protecting the integrity of the RLF.
Typical parameters may include:
• Interest rates generally between 1%–3%, subject to Committee determination.
• Terms typically 5-10 years.
• Deferred or interest-only options when appropriate.
• Collateral requirements are sufficient to protect fund assets.
• Personal guarantees when warranted.
Flexible Loan Structure (Deferred or interest-only)
To support redevelopment of brownfield properties, the Brownfields Committee may structure
loans with flexible repayment terms, including payment deferrals or interest-only periods, when
necessary to advance projects that provide significant economic impact, environmental cleanup
benefits, or community revitalization outcomes.
Loan-to-value and debt-to-equity standards shall be evaluated case by case.
Collateral & Loan-to-Value (LTV) Guidance
Borrowers will be required to provide reasonable collateral or other forms of sufficient security
to protect the financial integrity of the Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund (RLF). The form and
amount of collateral will be determined on a case-by-case basis based on project risk, borrower
capacity, participation by other lenders, and overall project benefit.
Acceptable security may include, but is not limited to:
• Real estate mortgages or deeds of trust
• Security interests in equipment, fixtures, or other business assets
• Assignments of leases, contracts, or revenues
• Personal or corporate guarantees
• Other security deemed appropriate by the Brownfields Committee
Collateral positions may be subordinated or structured in coordination with other participating
lenders when necessary to facilitate project financing, provided that such arrangements remain
consistent with EPA Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund requirements and protect the long-term
sustainability of the RLF.
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Section 10. Loan Closing & Disbursement
Upon approval, staff shall prepare all necessary loan documentation, which may include:
• Promissory Note.
• Security Agreement.
• Mortgage or Deed of Trust (if applicable).
• UCC Financing Statement.
• Personal Guarantee(s);
• Loan Agreement outlining conditions and covenants.
Disbursements shall be made on a reimbursement or draw basis, consistent with cleanup progress
and approved budgets.
Section 11. Loan Servicing & Monitoring
Staff shall monitor all active loans and cleanup activities. Monitoring may include:
Review of periodic financial statements.
• Site visits.
• Verification of cleanup milestones.
• ACRES reporting.
• Maintenance of complete loan files.
Principal repayments shall be returned to the RLF capital pool.
Section 12. Delinquencies & Workouts
In the event of delinquency:
• Staff shall initiate contact within 10 days of missed payment.
• Written notice shall be issued if delinquency exceeds 15 days.
• A formal Notice of Default may be issued if delinquency exceeds 30 days.
• The matter shall be presented to the Committee if delinquency exceeds 45 days.
• Legal remedies may be pursued upon declaration of default if delinquency exceeds 60
days, unless a written forbearance or restructuring agreement is approved.
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Loan restructuring may be considered when consistent with fund protection and EPA
requirements.
Section 13. Policy Deviations & Amendments
The Brownfields Committee may approve minor policy deviations on a case-by-case basis when
justified and documented. Material amendments to this Manual require approval by the
Beartooth RC&D Board of Directors.
All amendments shall be dated and incorporated into the Document Control section.
Section 9A. Relationship to Beartooth RC&D EDD Revolving Loan Fund.
The Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) established under the EPA cooperative agreement
operates as a separate and distinct program from the Beartooth RC&D Economic Development
District (EDD) Revolving Loan Fund.
While certain administrative processes (e.g., underwriting analysis, loan servicing mechanics,
accounting procedures, and portfolio monitoring practices) may follow similar internal standards
for consistency and efficiency, Brownfields RLF is governed exclusively by:
• CERCLA §104(k);
• EPA Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund guidance and cooperative agreement terms;
• Applicable federal cross-cutting requirements; and
• Montana DEQ regulatory oversight for cleanup activities.
Where any conflict exists between the EDD RLF Plan and the Brownfields RLF Manual, the
requirements applicable to the EPA Brownfields RLF shall control.
The Brownfields RLF shall maintain:
• Separate accounting and financial tracking;
• Separate reporting (including ACRES reporting);
• Separate eligibility determinations; and
• Separate policy governance under this manual.
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Adopted by Board:
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Beartooth RC&D Area, Inc.
Board of Directors Meeting Agenda
1:00 pm on Thursday, March 19, 2026
Big Horn Center
200 N. Mitchell, Hardin, MT 59034
1:00 pm Meeting Called to Order
Pledge of Allegiance, Introduction of Members &
Guests
Chair, All
Information
Review January Board Minutes – pp. 3-10
Chair, All Action
Congressional Updates
John Durnal for Tory K. (Sen. Daines)
Zoey Stroop (Congressman Downing)
Celia Herbel (Sen. Sheehy)
Information
Treasurer/Financial Reports
Treasurer Update
RLF Financials – p. 11
RC&D Financials – p. 12
Hauge / Knight Action
Brownfields RLF Program Guidelines Approval
Knight Action
Fractional Executive Director and Economic
Development Director Update
Chair / Lastusky Information
Executive Committee Alternate Nominations /
Voting
Chair / Lastusky Action
Staff Reports – Program/Project Updates
1. Food/Ag Program – Brad Eik – p. 13
2. Project Mngmt – Myrna Lastusky – p. 13
3. REAP (Rural Energy for America
Program) – Sky Losleben – p. 14
Eik
Lastusky
Losleben
Information
Regional Roundup – p. 2
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
May 21, 2026 – Sweet Grass County, MT
Information
2:30 pm Adjourn / Optional Tour of Hardin Highlights
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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
Workforce
Education
NOTES:
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Beartooth RC&D Board Meeting
January 15, 2026 – 1:00 pm
Rock31 Zoot Room
Present:
Nan Knight, Finance Director/Brownfields Coordinator
Sky Losleben, Rural Energy for America Program Manager
Commissioner Melanie Roe, Sweet Grass County
Commissioner Mike Waters, Yellowstone County
Mark Nicholson, City of Billings Councilmember
Jody Mackay, City of Laurel Councilmember
Mike Boyett, City of Billings Councilmember (outgoing BRCD board member)
Tina Toyne, City of Hardin Economic Development Director
Bob VanOosten, Stillwater Conservation District
Zoey Stroop, Congressman Downing’s Office
Tory Kolkhorst, Senator Daines’ Office
Asha Malcolm, Senator Sheehy’s Office
Lorene Hintz, Big Sky EDA / SBDC
Kevin Mitchum, Sibanye-Stillwater Mine
Via Zoom:
Myrna Lastusky, BRCD
Brad Caton, RLACF
Danny Choriki, Billings Area Family Violence Task Force/Ubet Post
Pam Schwend, Carbon Conservation District
Guests:
Brandon Berger, Big Sky Economic Development Interim Executive Director
J.B. Farley, AgriOrganics
Meeting Called to Order: Vice-Chair Commissioner Roe called the meeting to order.
Pledge of Allegiance, Introduction of Members and Guests
Review November Board Minutes: Tina Toyne motioned to approve; Lorene Hintz seconded.
Motion carried.
CONGRESSIONAL UPDATES
Zoey Stroop (Congressman Downing)
In 2025, Congressman Downing’s office sent 58,000 letters, answered 12,000 calls, had 45,000
Town Hall attendees,
In D.C., he signed 1 bill into law, 3 bills passed the House, he co-sponsored 18 bills, has 22
remarks in Congressional record, and sponsored 17 bills.
Had $3M returned to MT constituents and secured $2M for the Red Lodge Fire Department.
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So far in 2026, he has returned $60K back to the State & stood with Republicans protecting
women’s sports 2 days ago. 5 more appropriations are supposed to pass the Senate and be signed
into law.
o $500K for Yellowstone County short-term detention facility
o $100K for Cascade County crime scene laser
o $1.5M for Toole County Detention Center
o $500K to Lewis & Clark Sheriff’s Dept
o $1M to Canyon Creek Flume Replacement
o NOTE: These are all appropriations Zoey mentioned in the last meeting for us to be
aware of as possible funding opportunities we can apply for through their office.
On Jan. 31st, the House votes again to keep the government open – and hopefully pass.
Tory Kolkhorst (Senator Daines)
Senator was with Rilie Gaines regarding the issue of biological men in women’s sports.
Capture of Nicolas Maduro. Pres. Biden had put a $25M bounty on his head, so this was about
law & justice. Military supported this primarily law enforcement operation. Success!
Southern border: over 10M folks came across southern border including many bad actors.
Congrats to MSU on winning the FCS title – first time in 41 years!
Asha Malcolm (Senator Sheehy)
Sponsored 37 bills; 1 became law (Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act)
Co-led 14 and co-sponsored 150 bills.
Opened 1,122 cases and closed 804 – resulting in over $9M in savings for Montanans
2 meetings with White House – one on wildfire readiness and one on Argentinian beef issue.
CDS processes are open – just contact their office.
Senator is proud of MT service academy nominees from this year.
Executive Committee Nominations & Elections
Ryan has to step away from the board, so we need nominations to serve on the Executive Board.
Commissioner Waters & Bob VanOosten both declined nominations.
Myrna suggested we start by confirming Vice Chair and Treasurer if the board wants to
continue with Melanie Roe and Marissa Hauge, who are both willing.
o Nan discussed future possibility of having Marissa as a contracted Executive
Director. That would take her away from Treasurer.
o Someone fairly close to Joliet (Carbon, Stillwater, Yellowstone County is ideal)
Danny motioned to confirm Melanie as Vice Chair and Marissa as Treasurer. Mike Waters
seconded. Motion carried.
Chair Action: Board was asked to continue considering possible Chairs and to send those to
Myrna. After the meeting, Mike Boyett emailed Myrna to offer to continue being on the board as
a representative of Billings Advisory Council for Allies in Aging. He is willing to be the Chair.
Myrna confirmed with the Executive Committee and bylaws that an email vote was sufficient and
on Jan. 20th, emailed the board asking for a Yes or No vote. 15 of 21 active voting members
responded with a resounding YES and Thank you! The remaining 6 did not respond, making it a
unanimous vote. On Jan. 22nd Myrna sent an email to the entire board confirming Mike as the
new Chair.
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FINANCIAL REPORTS
RLF Financials (p. 12)
RLF Books ending 12/31/2025
o Total loans = 25
o Loan balance = $1.6 million
Working on a few loans right now to go to committee
Delinquent loan: working with attorney in Yellowstone County. Our attorney suggested we do a
3-way cost share.
o $3,230 x 2 so far – but that cost will be split between Prospera and Beartooth. Hired
private investigator to serve him the papers. Whole note is $500,000; Beartooth’s portion
is $80,000. We put a cap on what we will spend on lawyer fees.
RC&D Financials (p. 13)
4-year comparison of books and budget of where we have ended each year.
Nan wants to always show the actual numbers, not inflate anything to show a positive balance.
Beartooth takes no interest from RLF loans; we put it all back into helping businesses with loans.
Nan has also been putting money into savings whenever possible: $77,000
Melanie commented that it’s a very conservative budget.
Mike asked about a deficit & Nan explained that Joel and Gaurav both left and had to be paid out
for vacation and sick leave. Plus, Sky began in November, but the REAP program is
reimbursement, and we couldn’t request her salary until January 2026.
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Revolving Loan Fund Books ending - December 31, 2025
Loan Client Review
County # of loans $ Loan Balances
Big Horn 2 180,799.49$
Carbon 4 183,921.55$
Stillwater 4 276,060.57$
Sweet Grass 1 55,659.81$
Yellowstone 14 987,696.89$
Total:25 1,684,138.31$
*One new loan was approved in Yellowstone County in the amount of $210,000. waiting for closing
* RLF activity is extremely active
* One delinquent loan in Yellowstone County - now working with attorney
Bank Balances as of December 31,2025 Total available for lending
Bank of Joliet- RMAP 169,225.37$ 164,167.87$
$250,000 (still waiting to be drawn down)
Bank of Joliet – RMAP LOAN LOSS 8,035.14$ -$
Bank of Joliet EDA 23,842.83$ 23,842.83$
Bank of Joliet-CDBG 201,480.68$ 201,480.19$
Bank of Joliet- IRP 729,871.20$ 689,871.20$
Bank of Joliet-Fromberg 52,815.00$ 52,874.91$
Available:1,132,237.00$
(RMAP waiting to be drawn down) 250,000.00$
(IRP and BSED waiting to be drawn down)210k pending 511,250.00$
1,893,487.00$
Restricted Accounts Principal amounts paid back
FIB – SSBCI 2.0 $148,621.00 11,001.52$
BOJ- SSBCI 2.0 $79,651.50 19,492.31$
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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Action: Mike Waters motioned to approve RLF Financials. Mike Boyett seconded the motion.
Motion carried.
Action: Mike Waters motioned to approve the RC&D Financials & Mike Boyett seconded the
motion. Motion carried.
Approval of 2026 Budget: Mike Waters motioned to approve the 2026 budget as presented and
Mike Boyett seconded the motion. Motion carried.
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8
STAFF REPORTS
Brad Eik (absent due to family funeral – see report in board materials) Nan reported for him.
Nan commented that Brad is doing a fantastic job and has gotten a great deal done so far.
5 of 7 Agritourism applicants were awarded (of the 25 total in the state!).
Pass on clients to Brad.
Project Management (Myrna Lastusky)
USDA Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) with Red Lodge Area Community
Foundation (RLACF/Angela Getchell, Workforce Housing Manager)
Dec. 31st ended this grant. Q4 reporting and final closeout report have been submitted.
CDBG Housing Study has kicked off for Red Lodge with WSW/EPS.
Carbon County is working with HABCRO to select a site to build approximately 10 middle-
income homes. Fromberg, Bridger, Belfry area is their priority.
Roberts (Schuyler Commons) construction continues on the triplex for teacher housing.
Roberts Birch Home: Repairs and reno are almost finished for school employee.
Tory, Zoey and Celia visited with Brad and Angela last week to learn more about the Workforce
Housing program
RCAC (Rural Community Assistance Corporation) Grant in Columbus
Museum of the Beartooths historical mural – received $12K from MT 250 Grant.
RCAC & Beartooth are collaborating to submit a MT Development Tourism Grant application –
due Jan. 22nd. Scenic Byway to the Beartooths & Beyond to focus on tourism through the Hwy 78
corridor.
REAP: Rural Energy for America Program (Sky Losleben)
Waiting on guidelines from USDA.
Doing a REAP presentation for the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance in Malta.
Planning summer outreach plan.
Learning about all sorts of projects covered by REAP (get pole barn insulated, etc) and hoping to
create a video to help clients understand all the possibilities. Looking into partnering with some
college seniors on videography.
Working with Jacob Cote of MT DOC – trying to develop a statewide project to understand
energy development.
REGIONAL ROUNDUP
Brad Caton, RLACF
Myrna already updated you on some of the housing projects.
RLACF Carbon County Area Ride and Transit – 5-6 thousand rides per year, about 60% in the
county and 40% go to Billings for medical appointments.
Looking into what they can do with their Aging in Place program. Assisted Living facilities
closed in the last few years.
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Lorene Hintz, BSED
Dianne has the Brownfield RLF - a project going with Yellowstone Meat House.
Webcam pointed at Skypoint to track and see what is going on.
April 14th is Billings Cultural Summit.
Space2Place Grant is open - $5K per grant to beautify Yellowstone County.
Yellowstone County Museum remodel is nearly complete
Executive Director position is open and a position for an APEX counselor.
APEX training on Jan. 28th and SBDC on Jan. 29th is Elevate Your Business (IRS speaker will be
presenting)
Mike Boyett, Billings City Councilmember (outgoing)
3 elevators in the new City Hall and hoping all 3 will work this week!
County moved out of the 3rd floor, so if anyone needs to rent a floor . . .
6 new council members including the Mayor. All going to “school” for 2 hours each Monday
(getting trained by Local Government Center in Bozeman).
Threw out all the boards and commissions, and Mark wanted to be on this board.
Had 1st budget meeting yesterday ($1 million shortfall, better than last year’s $2.3 million).
Biggest issue is what to do for the future. All getting along & playing well together.
Commissioner Mike Waters, Yellowstone County
Will be going to YC voters for jail expansion. Not sure of size or cost yet. Will need to run an
operational levy and also go out for bond. Want to get everyone unified. Must have both the levy
and the bond (complicated due to State statutes) even though it is one measure.
o Currently built for 434 inmates
o Regularly hovering around 660 inmates, which is not safe or sustainable
o Got 2 new judges with courts and are moving into new County building – The John
Ostlund Buliding. Be patient during the transition, please!
o Yellowstone County is willing to do hard things when it is the right thing – and this is the
right thing.
Tory asked about safety measures following tragic stabbing at Senior High.
Kevin asked where marijuana money is going (there are so many shops!). Commissioner Waters
said it gets spread out pretty thin and not as much as you might think.
o It goes into the general fund, which is now about $5 million short due to public safety
budgets being supplemented out of the general fund – not sustainable long-term.
Melanie asked about regional prisoners? Mike said it’s just a handful of prisoners from
neighboring counties, and counties reimburse them.
Danny mentioned the gas excise tax pays around 20% for operational and maintenance costs of
our roads. The sin taxes are likely not covering the healthcare and safety costs.
Their education campaign is extremely important, and the City is very supportive, too.
Big 3 = Under construction moves, jail expansion, and budget
Jody Mackay, City of Laurel Councilmember
Jody is replacing Heidi Sparks, who ran for mayor and lost. Jody has worked with Beartooth and
owns a small business in Laurel, also.
2 new council members and 2 who won re-election.
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Judge Kerr retired after 20 years and you need NO law experience to be a judge in Laurel. Judge
Michelle Mize is a former council member, and Jody feels she will do a great job.
Annexed for Love’s Travel Stop and will also be putting in an RV park – are running city services
down Hwy 10 for many million dollars. Good growth!
Desperately need a new water tower ($20 million). The one they have needs maintenance.
o Zoey mentioned appropriations that will open up in March and will connect with Jody
Community is rallying around EMS. Great job of education. Ambulance, Fire, Police all came
together.
Brandon Berger, BSED Interim Executive Director
Application portal just opened up for the Executive Director application for Big Sky – and APEX
advisor, Community Development, Business Finance, Marketing . . . replacing a few positions
they have lost to get back to core.
Very busy upstairs, things going well – a lot happening with City and County and other partners.
Tina Toyne, City of Hardin
New mayor (boss) and new councilman (her husband).
Moving forward with plans on Visitor Information Center. Working with Cushing Terrell on
architectural portion & next council meeting will decide on general contractor.
Destination IQ is finishing up their brand.
Attended 60 Minutes with MT Main Street yesterday, and they will be announcing who will be
awarded MMS grants (hoping they get money for wayfinding).
Awarded $20,000 MT 250 grant for The Power of Place: Voices of Big Horn County Audio Tour.
Brad helped Flo Ramirez get a grant for 406 Greenhouse, and Flo is so excited to get a new
sprinkler system in his greenhouse.
1 new business in December and 2 new businesses so far this year
o Kenny Capital (grew up in Hardin & wants to work on blight in community)
o Cleaning business (home-based)
o The Ruff Life – making items for animals
J.B. Farley, AgriOrganics
Business is growing & getting a lot of attention from farmers this past year
Growing number of farmers want to switch from synthetics to organics and not go broke doing it
Kevin Mitchum, Sibanye-Stillwater Mine
Metal prices are up by a lot in the last year (This time last year was $950/oz and now Platinum is
$2300 and Palladium is $1795). Working on being profitable at lower prices.
Union negotiations happening this summer for both sites.
Bridge project on Stillwater River to go from main mine site to working area.
Hiring 2 new employees in the environmental department.
Bob VanOosten, Stillwater Conservation District
Pretty quiet, no floods right now . . .
Dry but the snowpack right now is about average. But the snowpack is not the only determination
of how the summer will go.
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Mark Nicholson, Billings City Council
Eager to have more jail space – also need to look at underlying issue of why we have more crime.
Water issue – Billings needs to understand how much water will be available
Danny Choriki, Billings Area Family Violence Task Force/Ubet Post
New data center: location is probably near high-voltage lines near Broadview and there is not
enough power in the area. NW Energy has a plan that is meeting with a lot of opposition.
o No way to use water-cooled systems. 2 possible sources are ditch companies and City,
neither very likely.
o We do need data centers in the area.
Update on Lawrence Killsback: Myrna shared that Big Horn County board rep Lawrence Killsback is
not doing well in his battle with cancer and asked the board members to keep him and his family in their
thoughts and prayers.
Meeting adjourned at 2:28 pm.
Next Meeting: Thursday, March 19th at Big Horn County Courthouse conference room.
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12
STAFF REPORTS
Revolving Loan Fund Books ending - February 2026
Loan Client Review
County # of loans $ Loan Balances
Big Horn 2 179,915.63$
Carbon 4 429,387.16$
Stillwater 3 273,804.29$
Sweet Grass 1 55,257.41$
Yellowstone 15 979,102.54$
Total:25 1,917,467.03$
* RLF activity is extremely active
Bank Balances as of February 27, 2026 Total available for lending
Bank of Joliet- RMAP 166,434.94$ 166,434.94$
$250,000 (still waiting to be drawn down)
Bank of Joliet – RMAP LOAN LOSS 8,035.14$ -$
Bank of Joliet EDA 24,324.69$ 24,324.69$
Bank of Joliet-CDBG 226,868.01$ 65k new loan 161,868.01$
Bank of Joliet- IRP 747,428.42$ 40k for loan loss 707,428.42$
Bank of Joliet-Fromberg 52,874.91$ 52,874.91$
Available:1,112,930.97$
(RMAP waiting to be drawn down) 250,000.00$
(IRP and BSED waiting to be drawn down)$495,500 pending 511,250.00$
1,874,180.97$
Restricted Accounts Principal amounts paid back
FIB – SSBCI 2.0 $148,621.00 11,763.94$
BOJ- SSBCI 2.0 $79,651.50 21,036.74$
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$
*The RLF committee has recently approved two new loans totaling $350,500, including $285,500 in Big Horn County and $65,000
in Yellowstone County. An additional $210,000 loan has been approved and is currently awaiting disbursement.
*The borrower was located by a private investigator and was served on January 21, 2026. He has 21 days from January 22, 2026 to
file an answer. If no response is filed within that timeframe, counsel will proceed with filing a motion for default judgment.
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Feb 2026 Beartooth Books
2026 Income % of budgeted
Budget Actual
AG-FOOD AND AG CENTER 66,000 17,437 26.42%
BEP 4,000 1,280 32.00%
REAP 85,000 16,368 19.26%
REAP TA 5,000 0.00%
BOARD - EDA SPONSOR DUES 62,351 40,540 65.02%
BOARD-INTEREST INCOME 700 49 7.01%
BOARD-FOUNDATION MONEY 3,500 0.00%
RLF- ORIG FEES 5,000 0.00%
RLF- RMAP 14,500 0.00%
BROWNFIELD 19,500 2,283 11.71%
BROWNFIELD RLF 19,500 3,298 16.91%
EDA - GRANT 70,000 17,500 25.00%
CRDC 82,269 20,567 25.00%
RCAC 25,000 4,082 16.33%
RCDI 1,500 1,649 109.93%
Pass- Through 13,051
Restricted SSBCI & Loan
Interest 13,721
463,820 125,054 151,826
Expenses for 2026
TOTAL STAFF EXPENSE 332,504 47,351 14.24%
COMMUNICATIONS 15,000 2,798 18.65%
EQUIPMENT & VEHICLE 10,000 488 4.88%
CONTRACTUAL 25,000 15,863 63.45%
SUPPLIES 15,000 559 3.73%
TRAVEL 20,000 240 1.20%
INSURANCES 9,000 823 9.14%
RENT/UTILITIES 9,000 115 1.28%
FY 24 Audit 27,000 0.00%
Restricted SSBCI & Loan
Interest 13,721
EXPENSE TOTAL 462,504 81,956
1,316 43,097
Statement Ending: 2/27/2026
Checking Account:$154,536.70 unrestricted cash
Restricted cash in
checking for CGWG $5,085.01 $149,451.69
Savings Account:$77,882.36
Building Account:$4,511.06
2026
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Food and Ag Development Director Report (Brad Eik)
BEP – Business Enhancement Program
Approved plans for two GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) group training courses for Billings
and Columbus on April 30th and May 1st
Approved plans for two group business and financial training courses for Billings and Columbus
on May 14th and 15th and the second part for May 28th and 29th
Composting –
I have been working with JB Farley at Agri Organics to put on tour/field day of his facility and
possibly a spreading demonstration on nearby field in April
He showed me the operation a couple months ago and it was very interesting
SCBG – Specialty Crop Block Grant
Submitted a grant application that would help us offer some specific training opportunities to our
specialty crop producers and manufacturers
These grant funds would also help provide some available funds for wages
Primary reason for grant funding would be to create a Made in Montana home show that could
showcase all the amazing products Beartooth clients make locally
Plan a large enough venue for this to turn into a statewide annual self-sustaining event
Provides Eastern Montana with the same opportunity Western Montana currently puts on for its
Made in Montana producers
Pre-Governor’s Summit –
Meeting to gather information about the Governor’s Summit in October, a big part of this is the
33 x 33 Montana Food Initiative will be March 11th at Rock 31
Project Manager Report (Myrna Lastusky)
RCAC (Rural Community Assistance Corporation) Grant in Columbus
Beartooth submitted a MT Development Tourism Grant application in late January titled: Scenic
Byway to the Beartooths and Beyond. If funded, work will focus on increasing tourism on the
Hwy 78 corridor from Columbus to Absarokee, Fishtail, and over to Carbon County.
Community/business outreach & assistance for an EDA Disaster Supplemental Grant application
for Absarokee Wastewater System (almost $4M request).
Working on 3 upcoming murals, a Tourism Map for Stillwater County, and plans for a dog park &
possible splash pad.
May 13th 2:00-5:00 pm at Main Street Commons in Absarokee: USDA Workshop/Training open
to all – business owners, ag producers, etc.
Miscellaneous:
Sweet Grass RCDI Application / Appeal: Judge returned a decision supporting USDA’s original
denial. We will try again next round!
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Speaking at Red Lodge Area Community Foundation’s Annual Meeting March 18th to discuss
partnerships and collaboration to increase capacity.
Beartooth is coordinating the follow-up community report-out of the KSU TAB Visioning
Activity last spring for Red Lodge’s URD (April 30, 2026). Will pair it with community input on
the old Rocky Fork Inn site and hopefully some beginning outreach with the Crow Tribe.
REAP Project Manager Report (Sky Losleben)
Still no update from the USDA (we were expecting new guidance from the National office the week of
1/19) but that hasn't happened). MDA had a meeting with USDA recently and still no update from the
National office. So continuing as usual with outreach efforts.
Submitted a grant application to the Big Sky Grant to produce a short, documentary-style film
featuring real Montanans who have gone through the REAP program. The goal of the video is to
highlight authentic voices sharing their personal experiences with the program, making the grant
process feel more relatable and approachable for others considering applying.
o Primary Project locations for the film if awarded the grant
Circle: Mahlstedt Ranch livestock watering system using solar pumps
Havre: Premium Processing Cooperative, Producer-owned cooperative effort -
solar array project
Polson: Bickford Building, Small-town Main Street historic building with
mixed-use office space that houses psychotherapy clinicians, a micro-winery and
community spaces - able to install 3 new heat pumps and a 13.6 kw solar array.
Plan B Interview Options
o Troy: Pink Bench Distilling
o Red Lodge: Alehouse
o Livingston: Black Dog Farm
Currently working with 3 different clients that are interested in solar pump projects
Exploring options with the digital marketing adds with Laurel Outlook/Adams Publishing Group
Montana
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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
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Directions for Quick Tour after Board Meeting:
1. From the Big Horn center, get on Mitchell Ave and head south.
2. Turn left(east) on 1st Street West and travel a block and a half to SOUTH PARK.
a. Check out the new South Park Project and coming Splash Pad!
3. Return to your vehicle & travel east several blocks.
4. Turn right (south) on Crow Avenue.
5. Go a half-block and turn left (east) on W. Railway Street.
6. Cross over Center Avenue and the HARDIN DEPOT will be on the right.
a. Stop for a quick tour of the Depot.
To head to I-90 after the Depot stop, return to Center Avenue & head north.
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File Attachments for Item:
2. Allies in Aging Correspondence
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RE: Allies in Aging Laurel Senior Transportation Program
March 12, 2026
Dear City of Laurel Officials,
Allies in Aging is giving the required 180-day notice of discontinuation of the current
Memorandum of Understanding for operating and cost sharing for public transportation services
between the City of Laurel and Allies in Aging. The end date for the current agreement is
September 8, 2026.
The long-standing partnership between Allies in Aging and the City of Laurel is valued. Allies
in Aging is offering a revised approach to Laurel senior transportation that more appropriately
aligns with the organizational mission as well as best aligns with the financial responsibility and
service expectations, recognizing the public nature of the transportation program.
Our goal is to continue to partner with the City of Laurel to provide critical transportation for
Yellowstone County seniors.
Following is a phased and fixed-dollar support model offer with the following considerations:
• The City of Laurel hires and employs all drivers for the city transportation program as of
September 8, 2026.
• Allies in Aging provides phased down financial support to ease the transition, provide
time for the City of Laurel to develop and execute their transportation plan, and continue
to support senior transportation in Yellowstone County for 3 consecutive years, beginning
September8, 2026.
Proposed Structure:
• Year 1: Allies in Aging commits to $2,500/mo ($30k/yr) to subsidize Laurel
transportation operations
• Year 2: Allies in Aging commits to $1,800/mo, ($21,600/yr) reflecting a planned
reduction in subsidy
• Year 3: Allies in Aging commits up to $1,000/mo, ($12k/yr) limited to costs attributable
to senior and disabled ridership only
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Allies in Aging’s total annual contribution would be capped at the stated dollar amount,
regardless of increases in operational costs.
As discussed in the meeting, while Allies in Aging will not negotiate regarding no longer
employing bus drivers for the City of Laurel Transit Program, we are willing to have further
discussions about collaboration options.
This letter serves only as a notice of discontinuation of the current MOU and is not a
representation of formal partnering in the future. Once the City of Laurel has a move forward
plan, and if it involves Allies in Aging, a new MOU will be created and executed.
We look forward to working alongside the City of Laurel during this transition as our goal is to
be certain that Allies in Aging continues to meet the needs of Yellowstone County Seniors.
Many thanks,
Erika Purington
CEO, Allies in Aging
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File Attachments for Item:
3. Letter of Representation - Laurel Public Schools
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File Attachments for Item:
4. Public Comments Received
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File Attachments for Item:
7. Revised Council Workshop Minutes of January 6, 2026.
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File Attachments for Item:
8. Revised Council Workshop Minutes of January 20, 2026.
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File Attachments for Item:
9. Budget/Finance Committee Minutes of March 10, 2026.
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File Attachments for Item:
10. Laurel Urban Renewal Agency Minutes of March 9, 2026.
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File Attachments for Item:
11. Public Works Committee Minutes of March 16, 2026.
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File Attachments for Item:
12. Tree/Park Board Minutes 3.5.2026.
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