BROKEN BOW — The Custer County Board of Supervisors covered a wide range of topics during its regular April 28 meeting, including wildfire response efforts, county finances, infrastructure planning, and several ongoing community initiatives.
The meeting opened with routine business, including approval of prior minutes with a correction to attendance records. Board members then moved into reports, where much of the discussion centered on recent wildfire activity across the region.
Supervisors and county officials praised the coordinated response to multiple fires, highlighting the involvement of local volunteer fire departments, mutual aid from surrounding areas, and support from agricultural producers and co-ops. Officials noted that while some property loss occurred, including a home and several outbuildings, the outcome could have been significantly worse without the large-scale response effort.
Several speakers emphasized the role of volunteers, many of whom balanced firefighting duties with their regular jobs. Additional recognition was given to organizations providing support services, including meal providers that served large numbers of responders during peak operations.
In a major personnel development, the county’s highway superintendent announced he will retire effective June 30, 2026, following more than 33 years of service. He told the board the decision came after significant consideration and said he plans to assist with the transition, including helping guide future projects and department operations. The board indicated it will begin the process of advertising the position and identifying potential candidates.
In other reports, board members discussed attendance at regional meetings, including updates on legal considerations for county road liability and ongoing communication with zoning officials regarding a wind farm project that has seen little recent movement.
The board also reviewed multiple financial reports and approved claims across several county funds. Key figures included:
- Road fund ending balance of approximately $2.65 million
- General fund ending balance exceeding $4.45 million
- Communications fund balance of roughly $154,000 after monthly expenses
Additional funds, including visitor improvement, deed preservation, and grant-related accounts, were also approved as part of routine financial oversight.
Infrastructure planning was another major focus. Representatives from Northland Securities presented updated financing options for an asphalt resurfacing project estimated at just over $3 million. The plan includes using $1 million in cash reserves, with the remaining cost financed through bonds. Annual repayment is projected at roughly $475,000, funded in part by state highway allocation revenues.
Health services were also discussed during a presentation from the Loup Basin Public Health Department. Officials outlined new initiatives, including the launch of WIC services in Broken Bow beginning July 1, expanded rural health programs, CPR training efforts, and a new mental health platform aimed at youth access.
The board briefly addressed a proposed sign placement for a local bank near the judicial center. Due to questions regarding property boundaries and county ownership, the item was tabled until additional mapping and clarification can be provided.
Additional discussions included:
- Exploring grant writing assistance to support county projects
- Considering improvements and potential grant funding for the Veterans Service Office, with strong opposition voiced against relocating it from its current accessible location
- Addressing maintenance needs in county office spaces
The meeting also included recognition of community contributions, including appreciation for local media coverage and public service efforts.
The session concluded shortly after 10:28 a.m., with several items scheduled for further discussion at upcoming meetings.
The next Custer County Board of Supervisors meeting is set for May 12th at 9:00 A.M. on the top floor of the Custer County Courthouse.
