Commissioners vote to begin chapter-by-chapter update of 1982 ordinance book and digitize code

Emmons County commissioners directed staff to begin a chapter-by-chapter review and update of the county's ordinance book, originally drafted in 1982, and to pursue digitizing the code so residents can access current ordinances online.

Commissioners said the current ordinance book is outdated and missing later amendments, making it difficult for residents and staff to locate applicable rules. Members noted emerging local issues, including battery storage and energy projects, that underscore the need for clearer, current language.

The board discussed an approach used by nearby cities: have staff and the county attorney update verbiage and then present one chapter at a time to commissioners for review. Commissioners suggested that two members pair to review each chapter, consult the county attorney (identified in discussion as Jill) on legal defensibility, and return amendments through the formal reading and public-hearing process when changes are substantive.

Commissioners proposed digitizing the updated ordinance book on the courthouse website to increase accessibility. Several said a phased, transparent process would reduce the risk of perceived unilateral changes and allow public input. No final ordinance changes were adopted; the board placed the update work into unfinished business and asked staff to begin drafting a schedule and first-chapter materials.