During the Yellowstone County Commissioner Meeting on May 7, 2024, key discussions centered around community development funding and the assessment of local detention facilities, highlighting the county's commitment to addressing pressing social needs.

The meeting began with Tom McLean from Big Sky Economic Development outlining the requirements of the Montana Department of Commerce's Community Development Block Grant Program. This program mandates that county commissioners hold a public hearing to gather community input on development projects that benefit lower and moderate-income residents outside city limits. The commissioners unanimously agreed to schedule the public hearing for May 21, 2024, at 9:30 AM, ensuring that local voices will be heard regarding potential projects and grant applications.

In addition to community development, the commissioners addressed the pressing need for an adult detention center needs assessment. James and Shane from the county's planning team presented a recommendation to award the assessment project to A and E Design. This comprehensive assessment will evaluate current conditions and project future needs over the next 20 years, broken down into five-year increments. It will analyze demographics, population trends, and crime statistics to inform future planning and resource allocation.

The selection process for A and E Design involved a rigorous review of qualifications, followed by interviews with shortlisted firms. The committee's unanimous decision to recommend A and E reflects a commitment to ensuring that the county's detention facilities meet future demands effectively.

Overall, the meeting underscored Yellowstone County's proactive approach to community development and public safety, with plans in place to engage the community and assess critical infrastructure needs. The upcoming public hearing and the initiation of the detention center assessment are significant steps toward addressing the county's evolving challenges.