Broadwater County to consider raising Winston's Weasel Creek Road limit from 15 to 25 mph after data, sheriff input

Broadwater County commissioners discussed a proposed ordinance to increase the posted speed limit on Weasel Creek Road through Winston from 15 to 25 miles per hour and scheduled a written ordinance for first reading next week and a required second reading no sooner than 12 days later, on Aug. 5.

County staff summarized speed-sign data collected on the roughly 930-foot section: of 2,261 vehicles recorded, 396 vehicles (about 17.5%) exceeded 25 mph, approximately 70% of vehicles traveled between 16 and 25 mph, and 284 vehicles (12.5%) recorded speeds of 15 mph or lower. Staff and the county attorney advised that local government can set the limit under MCA 61-8-3102 and that 25 mph was reasonable for the stretch in question.

Sheriff Mark Wood told the commission that, while he is not a traffic engineer, he and an under-sheriff tested the road and concluded “25 is a reasonable speed” for that segment, noting neighboring towns use 25 mph on similar roads. He also cautioned that unofficial resident-placed signs are not enforceable; the posted official sign is what law enforcement can use for enforcement.

Public comments presented mixed perspectives but leaned toward raising the limit. Resident Steve Dunbar urged the change to 25 mph, saying the 15-mph posting had produced what he described as harassment by an individual who stands near the road to monitor drivers. “Most residential areas are 25,” Dunbar said, arguing the 15-mph posting did not meet the statutory criteria. Resident Audrey Welleser, who lives at a nearby corner, said she supports 25 mph as a realistic, clear and enforceable standard while still protecting safety; she described multiple incidents of vehicles leaving the road and entering her goat pasture.

Commissioner and staff remarks confirmed the county will present a written ordinance next week, perform a vote, then return for a second reading at least 12 days later on Aug. 5. The sheriff said his office will speak with the resident who has been placing a personal sign and crossing the roadway to explain the law and safety concerns.

The commission made no final change at this meeting; the transcript shows discussion, public comment and scheduling of the ordinance readings but no final vote on the speed limit itself.

What happens next: the county will post the ordinance for the first reading at the next meeting and accept public comment; a second reading and vote are scheduled for Aug. 5 per statutory spacing requirements.