County law board meets
Representatives from the City of Rugby and Pierce County held their regular semi-annual law enforcement center meeting the evening of July 26 at the Pierce County Courthouse.
Pierce County Commissioners Dave Migler and Mike Brossart attended the meeting along with Rugby City Council Member Gary Kraft, Rugby City Auditor Jennifer Stewart, Rugby Mayor Sue Steinke, Rugby Police Chief John Rose, Pierce County Sheriff Josh Siegler and Pierce County Auditor Karin Fursather.
The board reviewed the law enforcement center’s 2021 budget. Fursather told the board the addition of 50 cents to area land line and mobile phone fees for 911 service brought in an additional $9,900 revenue per year, however, she added, “That still does not cover (all monthly expenses).”
Steinke asked if the board meetings were still necessary, as city law enforcement officials are “renters” at the center. However, the board agreed regular meetings were necessary in order to discuss rent increases or other budget matters.
The board voted to give the city notices of rent increases or other changes by June 30 to give the city an opportunity to consider the city’s budget and give their input.
Chief John Rose asked for an update on the SIRIN 2020 project for state radio.
Sheriff Josh Siegler and Gary Kraft, who is a firefighter with the Rugby Fire Department, said they weren’t aware of any work on the project near Pierce County.
Fursather said the city pays Pierce County monthly not only to rent office space at the law enforcement center, but to contribute to office supplies and upkeep and dispatchers’ wages.
The board will next meet in January.