The Yellowstone County Commissioners convened on June 19, 2023, to discuss several key planning and development issues, focusing primarily on two proposed commercial subdivisions.

The meeting began with a presentation from the planning department regarding a new building project in the Cowboy Country Subdivision, located off 72nd Street and Neibauer. Dave Green outlined the proposal for shops intended for lease or rent. The development will include public bathrooms and individual bathrooms in four of the shops, while the remaining units will serve as dry storage. Green noted that the project meets five essential criteria for buildings intended for lease or rent, including access and environmental considerations. A storm drainage system is also part of the proposal, pending approval from the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The commissioners discussed the absence of a separate weed control plan, clarifying that the original subdivision plan would govern such requirements. Commissioner Jones moved to conditionally approve the application, which was unanimously supported by the board.

Following this, Kermit from the City of Laurel Planning presented the Clarkstone Commercial Subdivision proposal. This project aims to create four new lots from an existing agricultural tract located south of Laurel. The property is currently undeveloped and not zoned. Kermit explained that the agricultural covenant on the land would be lifted during the review process. The City-County Planning Board recommended conditional approval based on a thorough review of the potential impacts on agriculture, local services, and the environment. After a brief discussion, Commissioner Morris made a motion to grant conditional approval of the preliminary plat for the Clarkstone Commercial Subdivision, which was also unanimously approved by the commissioners.

In conclusion, the meeting effectively addressed both subdivision proposals, with the commissioners granting conditional approvals based on the recommendations from the planning staff and boards. The next steps will involve ensuring compliance with the conditions set forth in the approvals, particularly regarding environmental assessments and infrastructure requirements.