Yellowstone County officials are moving forward with plans to enhance road maintenance in the area, following a recent meeting on February 14, 2023. The commissioners reviewed two bids for road maintenance, with the lowest bid from Knife River at $966,780, and a second bid totaling $1,094,254. The commissioners voted unanimously to refer these bids to staff for further recommendations.
A significant topic of discussion was the public hearing on Resolution 23-19, which aims to create a Road Special Improvement District (RSID) for the maintenance of portions of Central Avenue and Homewood Park Drive. Senior Civil Engineer Mike Black presented the resolution, explaining that it is a requirement stemming from the approval of the West Metro Subdivision's second filing. The proposed RSID will involve 63 property owners, each facing an annual assessment of $45 to fund maintenance, expected to begin in November 2023.
During the public hearing, resident JC Fortier expressed concerns regarding her property on South Homewood Park Drive. Fortier indicated that her driveway does not connect to Central Avenue and requested to be excluded from the RSID, as she does not plan to use that access point. The commissioners discussed her request, considering the implications of her potential removal from the district and the impact on the assessment for the remaining properties.
The meeting concluded with the commissioners weighing their options regarding Fortier's situation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining flexibility for future developments in the area. As the county moves forward with the RSID, residents can expect improved road conditions and maintenance services, enhancing safety and accessibility for the community.