Fergus County addresses staffing gaps in treasurer and motor vehicle offices and outlines training

Fergus County officials used a public meeting to report personnel changes and operational strain in the treasurer and motor vehicle offices, and to publicize upcoming training for elected officials and staff.

County staff announced the appointment of Christy Kaplan following an interview process; staff said Kaplan’s first day was Monday. The treasurer and motor vehicle services were described as short‑staffed: one motor vehicle clerk vacancy remains, and county staffer Abby — who has been serving as a floater between clerk/recorder and motor vehicle duties — has just received a required credential (a "J number") and is completing intensive training to sign into justice-side systems so she can register vehicles and perform related tasks.

Members noted Kathy will be away for approximately six weeks, and discussed temporary coverage for phone lines and counter duties while Abby transitions. Officials encouraged assistance from other staff and asked whether higher‑level contacts could expedite credentialing to reduce service interruptions.

The board highlighted several upcoming trainings: an elected‑officials training in Helena, a post‑election audit training on Feb. 9 (noted as increasingly important given new audit accountability), and an April 10 LAC training day that will include a workshop on secondary trauma and a resource-share fair for referral services. Separately, a board member mentioned the "Farm in the Dell" project received a $1.8 million grant, with construction activity anticipated in early spring.

The discussion closed with board members agreeing to follow up on credentialing speed, staffing coverage and potential budget amendments to restore prosecutorial capacity and to support onboarding of newly announced hires.