Commission approves first reading to raise Winston's Weasel Creek Road speed limit to 25 mph

The Broadwater County Commission approved the first reading of an ordinance to establish a 25 mph speed limit on Weasel Creek Road in Winston, repealing a prior 15 mph designation and citing Montana Code Annotated authority.

During the reading, a commissioner recited the ordinance language that references MCA 61‑8‑310, explaining that local authorities may set a minimum reduced speed of 25 mph on county roads outside urban districts unless other circumstances apply. The ordinance text defines the applicable roadway segment as the portion of Weasel Creek Road between the westerly right‑of‑way of Highway 287 and the existing 35 mph sign west of town.

County staff and commissioners discussed placement of the distance language in the ordinance and agreed on edits to be incorporated. Commissioners also heard public comments: Steve Dunbar asked for clarification about how many discussions had occurred; Audrey Wallester said she had contacted Winston neighbors and relayed local context, noting an incident in 2001 where someone was struck on the road.

One commissioner emphasized that the sheriff's office and road department will handle unauthorized signs or hazardous obstructions and asked residents to call law enforcement for compliance issues. Because Montana requires two readings for this kind of ordinance, the commission approved the first reading (voice vote) with the understanding the measure will return for a second and final vote at a later meeting.

What happens next: The ordinance will return for subsequent consideration; signage must be installed by the road department and enforcement will follow after final adoption and posting.