County, City Agreement Works Well With Project

Wolf Point Mayor Chris Dschaak thanked county commissioners regarding the demolishing of a property recently in the city limits.

After the city and county approved a memorandum of understanding, the county helped with the project of the house that was located on Main Street, across from Wolf Point High School.

During the meeting on Dec. 31, Dschaak said the project cost the city only $3,334. “It’s a lot less than I thought it would be,” he added.

Roosevelt County Commissioner Robert Toavs estimates the expense to the county was $1,500 for fuel and labor costs along with about $500 for equipment use.

“I think it’s all looking pretty good,” Toavs said.

They agreed the project was a benefit for both the city and county. Toavs said the goal is for the location to be back on the county’s tax rolls.

The next project is anticipated to be the two lots that the county recently gave deeds to the city on Fourth Avenue and Eureka Street.

Also during the meeting, commissioners discussed a House Bill that will provide the county about $375,000 for short-term work housing. Commissioners were required to select an organization to head the effort in the county. Commissioners agreed on HAB Development Corp. of Billings.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, resident Bill Juve asked about an update of the proposed fertilizer plant near Culbertson. Commissioners said they haven’t received any news since July.

Commissioner Gordon Oelkers said the recent Held v. Montana ruling will challenge many economic development efforts.

“Oil, gas and coal will really be affected,” Oelkers said. “It will affect everything. We don’t know how yet.”

Juve said, “It’s devastating for life in Montana.”

The meeting was the last one for Gary Macdonald, who served as a county commissioner for more than 25 years.

“As the newest commissioner here, he’s been an asset to me,” Toavs said.

Macdonald said thank you and then made a motion to adjourn the meeting.