House District 38 Representative Matt Rosendale checked in following interim committee meetings in Helena this week.
The Education and Local Government Interim Committee held its regular meeting on January 22-23. One of the major items was Family Transfer Subdivision Exemption. Rosendale explained that “This is one area of the code that directs the counties to develop their own criteria for evaluating and determining what qualifies as a family exempt transfer and how to implement the process. Although we had testimony from one clerk and recorder who was having some problems with individuals stretching the limits of the code, generally, the exemption is working well with the local governments developing their own system without state intervention.”
The Public Safety Communication System, also known as the Interoperability System, was discussed and several technical and emergency response officials gave testimony. Last year the statewide interoperability program ran out of state and federal funding. Rosendale said “The inclusion of the private sector in this undertaking utilizes the latest technology and drives down cost.”
Rosendale said that aside from his work at the Interim he has been working closely with the Department of Commerce and the Department of Environmental Quality to help address the growth and housing shortage issues facing Eastern Montana. Rosendale also took credit for arranging for the Department of Environmental Quality to hold several informational meetings which are open to the public. He said the meetings are designed to give the local officials and prospective developers accurate information on the permitting requirements and procedures for subdivisions and public water supplies. Topics will include creating new lots, recreational vehicle camps, trailer courts and the submittal review process. Montana Public Water Supply Laws will also be discussed including information on options for water supply and wastewater treatment. These meetings will be held:
Glendive-January 31, 6 PM-CC’s Family Café 1902 N. Merrill Ave.
Sidney-February 1, 2 PM-Richland County Health Dept. 1201 W. Holly
Culbertson-February 2, 2 PM Roosevelt County Complex 307 Broadway
Additionally, the Department of Environmental Quality has agreed to set up a permitting office in Sidney and provide staff one day a month to answer questions and review potential submittals.
Rosendale also noted that public input is very important to the interim process and encourages consitutents to call with comments or questions. His telephone number is 406-687-3549 and email is mattrosendale@midrivers.com.
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