A major point of focus was the Boisey Sue Watershed project, which has been in development for over a decade. The board confirmed that contractors have been hired and work is set to commence shortly after the 4th of July. The project, which the board has invested a quarter million dollars in, aims to address longstanding issues within the watershed. Alongside this, the board discussed the potential for securing a $500,000 grant to support the project, emphasizing its importance in mitigating erosion and improving water flow. The plan involves replacing a dysfunctional pipe with rock riffles to slow water movement and prevent further erosion.

Discussions also centered on the authorization of two bonds necessary for maintaining local water infrastructure. The board approved engagement letters and disclosure statements for two separate bonds: one targeting Grant County Ditch 21 and a smaller bond for Ditch 3. The potential for local placement of the smaller bond was emphasized as a means to achieve cost savings and enhance flexibility. These bonds are critical for funding infrastructure repairs and improvements essential to managing local waterways effectively.

In addition to infrastructure, the board deliberated on transitioning to a volume-based waste management system. Adjustmentsttention was given to the impending decision on ordering panisters from Angle Briden, which must be decided by the board in two weeks. The transition aims to fully implement a volume-based model by 2026, with two-thirds of the system already operating under this structure. The board acknowledged the urgency of placing the order due to an estimated lead time of three to four months. This shift is intended to streamline waste management and encourage more efficient waste handling practices.

Amid these operational discussions, the board addressed a notable increase in the budget for annual bridge safety inspections. A professional services agreement with MSA highlighted a budget jump from the typical $12,000 to $38,590 due to new federal mandates. These mandates require a comprehensive inspection of all county bridges rather than a rotational approach previously employed. The board approved the agreement, although concerns were voiced about the tripled costs associated with simplifying inspection processes.

The board also grappled with issues of transparency and communication, particularly following an incident involving a note left at the courthouse. The note, which mentioned several commissioners, had been documented by a sheriff’s deputy, but not all board members were informed about it. This led to a broader discussion about the need for improved communication protocols, especially concerning safety matters involving elected officials. Members expressed the need for timely notifications about potential threats or unusual activities to ensure safety and maintain public trust.

As part of their administrative duties, the board approved additional cleaning services for the courthouse, anticipating increased traffic due to an upcoming jury trial. The cleaning service, approved at a cost of $1,575, aims to maintain courthouse standards during this busy period. The discussion also touched on potential staffing gaps post-trial and the need for consistent communication regarding maintenance and cleaning responsibilities within the courthouse.

The meeting concluded with updates on various committee activities and highway projects. Notably, the Department of Natural Resources had approved permits for construction on County Road 34, with work scheduled to begin soon. Other projects, such as sidewalk installations on County Road 43 and drainage repairs on Ditch 3, were also progressing.