Dry Gulch welcomes Tim Pool as staffing returns to full capacity

Broadwater County's Solid Waste Board made significant strides in addressing staffing and community concerns during their meeting on May 13, 2025. The board announced that Dry Gulch will welcome Tim Pool on June 1, marking a positive development as they reported being fully staffed for the first time in a while. This staffing boost is seen as a response to community needs, with board members noting that many applicants were seeking additional income.

A key topic of discussion was the confusion among seasonal residents regarding waste management fees. Several snowbirds expressed frustration over the lack of clarity surrounding the need for decals on their properties, especially when they only have sewer and power services. Board members acknowledged the challenges posed by the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) regulations, which do not clearly define what constitutes a habitable property.

The board is considering a more streamlined approach to address these concerns, potentially adopting practices similar to those in Park County, where fees are assessed on all land lots. This could alleviate the burden on residents who are currently confused about their obligations. The board emphasized the importance of clear communication and the need for a fair system that does not disproportionately affect agricultural landowners.

As the board moves forward, they are committed to finding solutions that balance community needs with regulatory requirements. The discussions highlighted the importance of ongoing dialogue with residents to ensure that waste management policies are understood and effectively implemented.