The Williams County Board of County Commissioners on Aug. 5 approved two separate minor subdivisions that will create four new residential lots near Blacktail Lake, despite extensive public opposition from nearby landowners.
The proposals, filed by Andrew Pocus on behalf of landowner Benjamin Roslin and identified on the agenda as LU‑0049‑25 and LU‑0050‑25, would rezone portions of two large agricultural parcels to urban residential and allow creation of four smaller lots near the lake.
Residents who live year‑round at Blacktail told the commission the lake is already overcrowded and that additional homes would increase traffic, strain the rural road network and complicate emergency response. Don Agee, president of the Blacktail Dam Association, said recent park upgrades have increased use and that "we don't have the infrastructure out there to handle more residents." Kelly Iverson said approving minor subdivisions would "open the floodgates" and could lead to more development around the lake.
Why this matters: speakers warned that incremental approvals can change the character and infrastructure needs of the area and that the dam itself has known issues. In public comment, neighbors urged the county to consider a larger plan—such as a dam expansion or formal incorporation—before permitting more residential lots.
County planning staff said Planning and Zoning had recommended denial for the first parcel (5–2) and denial for the second (6–1). The applicant, Andrew Pocus, told the commission he and the landowner wanted to create smaller residential lots near existing infrastructure and said he had discussed water capacity with the rural water provider who "assured me that it was plenty sufficient for what we were asking for." Pocus also cited county incentive programs encouraging development outside city limits.
Commission discussion touched repeatedly on infrastructure, safety and precedent. Commissioner attendees noted that approving a few lots could lead to more requests and that the county should consider long‑term planning options. One commissioner suggested incorporation as a city so Blacktail could manage its own services.
Formal actions: The board voted to approve both LU‑0049‑25 and LU‑0050‑25. Roll calls recorded in the transcript show the commissioners voting “Yes” (names recorded as Barry, Steve, Corey and Chris in the roll calls). The Planning & Zoning recommendations to deny were noted on the record.
Context and background: Commenters and some commissioners referenced prior park investments, upgrades to the boat ramp and recent campground expansion, which residents said already increased weekend traffic and lake use. Several speakers raised the dam’s condition and long‑term options, including an idea to enlarge Blacktail by constructing a new dam, which would require state and federal involvement and substantial funding.
Next steps: The approved zone changes will allow the applicants to proceed with minor subdivision platting and administrative review; recordation will be contingent on completion of the draft plat and county review. Residents said they expect follow‑up phone calls and additional engagement with county staff about road maintenance, emergency response and recreational management.