Lincoln County seeks meeting with Libby over animal-control funding after partial increase

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners discussed whether to accept the City of Libby’s revised contribution to a county animal-control contract and agreed to invite Libby officials for a negotiation session.

At a public meeting, the commission heard from Jim, who said he had spoken with Sam Sykes, Libby’s city administrator, and that Libby raised its annual contribution from $125 to $15,000, short of the $25,000 the county requested. “They felt that was a large increase for one year,” Jim said, summarizing the city’s reply.

The commissioners debated next steps: accept the $15,000, continue negotiations, or end the contract and let Libby operate its own animal-control program. One commissioner urged a clear contractual commitment from Libby — for example, a multi-year pledge or a specified annual contribution — while others proposed inviting Libby’s mayor or city council to a public meeting to negotiate terms.

The board agreed to invite Libby’s officials to an open meeting specifically to negotiate the contract. Commissioners said staff should inform Libby that failure to attend would prompt the county to make a decision without further discussion.

Why it matters: The contract affects how animal-control services are funded and delivered locally; commissioners said they want assurance of a reliable, documented contribution before committing county funds or continuing the contract.

What’s next: The commission directed staff to invite Libby’s elected officials and the city administrator to a future meeting to discuss funding and expectations. If Libby does not attend, the county may proceed to make a unilateral decision on the contract.

Sources: Remarks and motions taken during the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners meeting.