In a recent special meeting held by the Custer County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), pressing concerns about funding and hazard mitigation planning took center stage. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as officials grappled with the reality of limited financial resources, heavily reliant on grants to provide essential services to the community.

"We don't have a lot of money," one commissioner stated, emphasizing the precarious nature of their funding situation. The uncertainty surrounding the status of various grants, including federal support, loomed large over the discussions. Without these funds, the county would struggle to maintain even its most basic services.

As the meeting progressed, the commissioners voted to adopt Resolution 25, a step seen as crucial for future planning. The resolution aims to address the lessons learned from past experiences and to prepare for the challenges ahead. "I think it's important to plan," one commissioner remarked, highlighting the need for proactive measures in light of the county's evolving needs.

Public comments brought additional insights into the county's hazard mitigation plan, which has faced scrutiny for its effectiveness. A resident pointed out that a previous $50,000 plan from 2017 had largely gone unused, with only a few projects being completed. This raised questions about the county's approach to future planning and the necessity of securing federal funding to ensure that new plans do not meet the same fate.

The resident urged the commissioners to consider cost-sharing with other agencies to avoid bearing the full financial burden of future plans. "If you're not seeking federal funding... there's no reason to approve that," they cautioned, stressing the importance of collaboration and accountability in the planning process.

As the meeting drew to a close, the commissioners were reminded of the importance of community involvement. One participant encouraged continued engagement, urging residents to voice their concerns and stay informed about the county's plans. "You need to keep staying involved," they said, reinforcing the idea that active participation is vital for the community's future.

With the meeting's discussions echoing the challenges of funding and planning, Custer County stands at a crossroads. The decisions made today will shape the county's ability to respond to future needs and ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. As the commissioners move forward, the call for collaboration and strategic planning remains clear, underscoring the importance of a united approach to tackling the issues at hand.