Daniels County appoints and swears members to Local Government Study Commission; Joanne picked as temporary presiding officer

Daniels County commissioners at a special Nov. 22 meeting appointed an ex‑officio member to the county’s Local Government Study Commission, administered the oath and handled initial organizational matters.

Commissioners nominated Jessica Larson to serve as an ex‑officio study commission member and the motion to appoint her was made, seconded and approved without opposition. Following the appointment, newly seated members swore oaths to support and defend the U.S. and Montana constitutions and to ‘‘discharge the duties of my office ... with fidelity.’’

Members discussed logistics for the new study commission, including required training in Sidney on Dec. 10 (registration $275 per person), meeting cadence (monthly was favoured), accessibility of venues and budget-line implications for registration and travel. Commissioners agreed to delay selection of a permanent presiding officer until after members complete training, but they selected Joanne as the temporary presiding officer by formal motion and vote.

County clerks explained how to submit claims for travel and how budget lines may be rearranged administratively; staff said they would notify members about registration and follow up on spec sheets and related paperwork. The board noted that the study commission will work on meeting schedules, budgets and potential collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions.