JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The Stutsman County Commission met in regular session Tuesday, March 5th.
The commission asked questions to Stacy Bowerman, Executive Director of the South Central Dakota Regional Council (SCDRC) on the funding and dues from the county. County Auditor and COO Nicole Meland stated the county had issues with the financial stability of the SCDRC.

Bowerman stated that they have a two year period that they’re looking to turn things around financially.

Commissioner Dave Schwartz informed Bowerman that in 2013, the county had questioned the financial path of the SCDRC in a letter. Schwartz pointed out that their questions have blossomed into the problem facing the SCDRC today.

Commissioner Steve Cichos stated that the commission was just looking at whether or not to approve the dues based on the JSDC Board’s recommendation. Commissioner Ramone Gumke seconded, but stated that this would be the only time he votes to approve dues until they see a solid plan in place for the SCDRC.

The commission unanimously approved.
Later, the commission discussed several grants that had been given to the county to assist with court facility improvements. Items included chair replacements in courtroom one and two, replacing the countertop on the judge’s bench in courtroom two, and security for stopping weapons and more from entering the courtrooms.
The grants are on a 75/25 split with the county. Stutsman County Sheriff Chad Kaiser says the extra security would help his department assisting with the security of the courtrooms.

Kaiser says the authority presence wouldn’t go away with the improvements, but with the grants, it’ll help with the security because the department can’t afford to hire more staff.

The commission unanimously approved the grants and will look at funding in the next year or two.