County schedules June 16 briefing and asks staff to frame Munger sewer acquisition options

Teton County commissioners asked county staff and the school-district representative to return June 16 with a public briefing and to seek direction on whether the county should pursue acquisition, operation and maintenance of the Munger sewer line.

Public-works director Heather Overholser told the board she received a summary email from the school district's water-resources coordinator and that the June 16 item will seek direction on three points: (1) whether the board supports county acquisition and operation of the sewer line; (2) negotiation parameters (e.g., price, term, responsibilities); and (3) process guidance, including who should lead negotiations and whether a working group is appropriate.

Commissioners debated the merits of a small working group with one or more commissioners versus having the full board and staff conduct an open negotiation. Commissioner Gardner and others emphasized transparency and the board's ultimate public-role responsibility, while also recognizing a working group could expedite technical negotiation points. Board members requested staff provide a concise list of negotiating terms and the draft agreement's key provisions ahead of the June 16 discussion; staff said Mr. Peltz (school-district water-resources coordinator) will deliver a summary email to commissioners before the meeting.

Ending: Staff will present the draft agreement highlights and a clear list of negotiation parameters on June 16. Commissioners asked that the county's water-quality advisory board be consulted as the process moves forward if more technical water-quality questions arise.