Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the County Bounty Fund topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Garfield County reviews history and handling of local bounty fund; officials seek more research
Summary
County Attorney, Treasurer and Clerk discussed the County Bounty Fund's origins, how funds flow to Wildlife Services in Helena, and whether county accounting and distribution practices match the program's intent. Attendees agreed further legal and accounting research is needed.
Garfield County officials opened a review of the County Bounty Fund during the Jan. 14 Board of Commissioners meeting, seeking clarity on how bounty receipts are handled and whether current accounting and distribution match the program's original intent.
County Attorney Adam Forslund, Clerk and Recorder Charlie Saylor and Treasurer Jennifer Crawford described ongoing research into what funds are forwarded to state Wildlife Services in Helena, what those funds cover, and how county accounts currently receive and disburse bounty-related money. Jack McRae, who said he had historical knowledge of the program, offered recollections about when and how the program began.
Participants agreed the county needs additional legal and financial review to determine the proper handling and distribution of bounty funds. No formal policy decision or vote was recorded during the meeting; the group concluded more research was required before recommending actions.
The record does not specify whether the bounty program generates recurring revenue, the typical amounts involved, or whether any funds are earmarked for specific county programs. Officials did note a new trapper is in the area and that they had contacted Wildlife Services in Helena to verify funds being sent and program coverage.
The board did not place a new action on the public record; county staff and elected officials will continue researching the legal and accounting questions raised.
