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Task force chair warns Ordinance 277 could authorize overtime, urges redraft
Summary
Jeffrey Miles, chair of the Domestic Animal Task Force, reported three developments including Bill Willings' resignation and argued that Ordinance 277 as written appears to authorize overtime for subject-matter employees; he recommended drafting changes with the county attorney and engaging community volunteers.
Jeffrey Miles, chair of the Anaconda Deer Lodge County Domestic Animal Task Force, read his monthly report and told the commission the group had three developments since the last meeting, including the resignation of a member and fresh volunteer help. He said the task force can finish its work but flagged language in Ordinance 277 that he said could pose problems for county employees.
"This ordinance, as written, appears to give authorization for overtime pay to employees," Miles said, arguing that subject-matter experts named in the ordinance already have scheduled work hours and family obligations and that the ordinance should be redrafted with the county attorney to allow duties to be covered within scheduled hours. He also reported that two citizens had volunteered to assist with public input and meeting audio, which he said increased confidence that the task force will complete its assignments.
Miles listed three findings: Bill Willings’ resignation (described as health-driven), perceived flaws in Ordinance 277’s composition and staffing approach, and recent volunteer engagement that improved public outreach. On the ordinance he recommended a new draft developed jointly with the county attorney and the subject-matter employees to clarify duties and scheduling.
Patricia Davis, who identified herself as a task-force member during public comment, said the group had a red-line draft and hoped to complete its work in September; she urged commissioners to allow the process to continue. Commissioners asked questions about staffing flexibility, and one noted that subject-matter employees often have useful institutional knowledge and generally participate when available.
The report closed with Miles saying the task force supported "Bridal Williams' resignation" and asking commissioners to consider the scheduling and staffing language in Ordinance 277. The commission did not take a formal vote on changes to the ordinance during this meeting; Miles said staff and the attorney should be involved in any redraft and that another meeting may be needed to finalize text.
