Morton County Commission 2026-08-13

The Morton County Commission held a regular meeting on August 13, 2026, where key procurement and budget matters were discussed. The commission approved a payment of $22,253 for permanent right-of-way acquisition related to a bridge replacement project (bridge number 30-156-04.1) funded through the North Dakota Flex Fund program. The project involves design adjustments and right-of-way purchases exceeding typical costs due to additional land acquisition needs. Additionally, the commission reviewed and approved the 2027 budget for the Three Rivers Human Service Zone, which includes Morton, Sue, and Grant counties, noting a 3% overall budget reduction primarily through cuts in contracts and equipment, while increasing revenue projections based on improved billing practices. The meeting also included approval of a policy related to MITA bonds financing and application procedures. Discussions on county road improvements, fire emergency and burn ban declarations, and county-wide budget considerations were also part of the agenda, with motions passed to approve the preliminary county budget totaling approximately $34.5 million, emphasizing continued fiscal prudence and prioritization of purchases.