Grant County Weed Board approves $9,200 DOT spraying contract; officer flags truck is uninsured

The Grant County Weed Board met April 16, 2024, at the Carson courthouse and approved routine business including the secretary’s report and payment of bills, accepted its 2023 annual report and approved a $9,200 contract to spray state roads for the North Dakota Department of Transportation.

The board convened at 8:10 p.m. with President Leonard Gerhardt presiding. Secretary’s minutes were approved on a motion by Marty Meyer and second from Walker Sabin. Treasurer and weed officer Merlin Leithold reported a fund balance of $217,637.24 before approving $776.22 in bills including phone service ($85.77), building maintenance ($7.42), fuel ($78.89) and board salaries (Leonard $117.88; Dick $80.36; Marty $40.20; Denis $142.00; Walker $116.54; Justin $107.16). Dick Woodbury moved to pay the bills, Denis Tibor seconded, and the motion carried.

Tessa Osterbauer of NDSU Extension gave an extension office update, outlining outreach planned for April and May such as a Master Gardener workshop and horticulture night, and noted the office assists ranchers with water quality issues.

During old business, Leithold said contracted sprayers Randy Lyons and Steven Zenker plan to spray in the county again this season and have indicated they will keep their rates the same; he said he will publish their contact information in the newsletter. Leithold also reported the board truck is ready pending installation of a new data logger and window signage but currently has no insurance, calling it a concern because “a lot of money” is tied up in the unit; he said he speaks with Sara about the matter weekly.

Leithold said the 4‑wheeler still needs carburetor repair; after repair he plans to advertise it for sale. He then reviewed the 2023 annual report; Walker Sabin moved to accept the report and Denis Tibor seconded, and the motion carried.

On new business, the board approved the 2024 DOT road‑spraying contract for $9,200. Dick Woodbury moved to spray DOT roads and be reimbursed; Justin Vetter seconded and the motion carried. The board also voted to hold the 28th Annual Bug Day, contingent on insect availability; Walker Sabin moved to hold the event and Dick Woodbury seconded. The board will decide fees for Lorele at the June meeting and Leithold will ask Morton County whether it wants to participate.

The board scheduled a budget meeting for June 18, 2024, at the Carson courthouse (MDT). With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:18 p.m.

This account summarizes actions and statements recorded in the board minutes; motions were approved by voice vote where recorded as “M/C” (motion carried).