Commissioners approve Centerville trail and parking concept for grant applications, authorize MOU with BCDC

Broadwater County commissioners voted to adopt Concept 2 for the Centerville property in the parks and open‑space master plan, but limited the approval to the trail alignment and a single parking lot for the purpose of grant applications.

Carol Hatfield, speaking for the parks and trails committee, said the committee will apply to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks for stewardship and recreation grants and has contracted Interstate/InterWest Engineering to prepare the survey and draft trail design needed for competitive proposals. "For the purpose of the grant, we felt that concept two would be the better way to go with one parking lot and the trailhead," Hatfield said.

Several commissioners voiced concern that adopting Concept 2 broadly might be interpreted as approving large amenities such as a pool or fitness center. Commissioners and the presenter agreed the motion would be restricted to the trail and one parking area; the parks committee and county will remain flexible on future elements depending on funding and community interest.

The board also authorized staff to enter a memorandum of understanding with BCDC to administer grant applications and oversee project funds if a grant is awarded. A commissioner moved to approve the concept for grant purposes and the MOU with BCDC; after a second the motion passed by voice vote.

Commissioners said the partnership with BCDC has been productive on past grant work and emphasized that the master plan is fluid and subject to future changes based on funding and community priorities.