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Council approves variances, hazard plan, vehicle purchase and appointments in routine meeting
Summary
At its regular meeting the council approved a garage-size variance at 438 Alder Court, adopted an updated Eastern Montana hazard mitigation resolution, authorized a $51,412 public works vehicle, renewed a consultant contract, adopted cemetery policy updates and confirmed a police commission appointment.
The City Council completed a series of routine but legally required actions at its meeting, approving a zoning variance, adopting an updated regional hazard mitigation resolution, authorizing several purchases and contract renewals, updating cemetery policies, and confirming an appointment to the police commission.
Garage variance: The council approved a garage-size and rear-setback variance for 438 Alder Court after hearing from the applicant, identified in the meeting as Justin, who said he intends to use the structure as a permanent woodshop and keep vehicles inside. “All I’m looking for is a woodworker, but I like to park my cars inside,” Justin said. The council moved, seconded and voted to approve the variance.
Hazard mitigation plan: The council adopted Resolution 2025 R-21, which updates the Eastern Montana regional hazard mitigation plan to add hazards and bring the city into current compliance. Council members said the resolution updates language to cover risks such as rock slides and earthquakes.
Purchases and contracts: The council approved a budgeted purchase of a 2025 three-quarter-ton Chevrolet pickup for public works at $51,412. It also approved renewal of the city’s municipal and construction consultant contract with Doug Whitney; council members praised Whitney’s service.
Policies and appointments: Council members voted to soften and clarify cemetery policy language in updated procedures included in the packet, and they confirmed the mayor’s appointment of Christie Beck to the Holphip Police Commission, citing her community involvement and teaching background.
Votes at a glance: - Consent agenda (minutes, claims, payroll): Approved (motion and second recorded; council members voted aye). - Variance — 438 Alder Court: Approved. - Resolution 2025 R-21 (Eastern Montana regional hazard mitigation plan): Adopted. - Public works vehicle purchase ($51,412): Approved. - Doug Whitney contract renewal: Approved. - Cemetery policy procedures amendments: Approved. - Police commission appointment (Christie Beck): Confirmed.
The meeting adjourned with the chair wishing attendees a happy Thanksgiving. Several items will proceed to implementation steps or to bidding as staff returns cost and scope details to the council.
