CUSTER COUNTY—A resolution to assist county townships with emergency loans has been approved in the amount of more than $700,000. On Tuesday morning, the Custer County Board of Supervisors approved moving money from the inheritance fund to the disaster relief fund in order to allocate money to those townships who have requested assistance.
Board members have collected data and looked at the priorities of each township for flood repairs. Representatives from the Ryno Township spoke before the board saying they need funds soon in order to pay their contractors. A motion to lend funds to 10 townships was approved with a 0.25 percent interest rate to be paid back within one year.
Wayne Homan with the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service appeared before the board to discuss a three-year contract in the amount of more than $29,000 per year. No decisions were made.
Recycling Manager Kelly Flynn and the board discussed looking into grant opportunities to help pay for a plastic sorting conveyor, possibly purchasing the building that currently houses recycling operations, and the possibility of scrap tire and environmental trust grants.
The board approved a one-year service contract for elevator maintenance.
Dave Downey of Merna appeared before the board of supervisors to obtain a conditional use permit for an RV park/campground in Merna.
Zoning Administrator Darci Tibbs led the board and those in attendance in a public hearing regarding updates to the zoning map, zoning regulations, and the comprehensive plan. The zoning map was approved with many well-head updates in various communities. One man expressed frustration that when lines are drawn on the map, they affect those who live outside of city limits but still have to adhere to certain regulations even if they do not have voting rights.
Much of the zoning conversation was filled with different interpretations regarding the number of houses allowed in quarter sections and sections of land in agriculture areas. Due to clarity issues, Don Olson made a motion to table the resolution regarding ag land development until clear definitions can be outlined between the board and the zoning committee. The comprehensive plan was also tabled but a motion to outline regulations for adult entertainment zoning was approved.
The Board of Supervisors will hold a meeting on Tuesday, May 21 at 9 a.m.
