Norton County Commissioners Recap 4/7, Address Fire Recovery, Equipment Purchases, and Sheriff’s K-9 Unit

by Derek White

The Norton County Board of Commissioners met on April 7, 2025, with Chairman Marvin Matchett calling the meeting to order at 9 a.m. Commissioners Garrett Beydler and Richard Thompson were in attendance, along with County Attorney Abigail Horn, Road and Bridge Supervisor Terry Laughlin, Solid Waste Manager Ted White, and County Clerk Craig Renner.

Fire Aftermath Spurs DiscussionTerry Laughlin opened the session with a report on the aftermath of the Edgett fire. Property owner Kelvin Edgett requested county assistance to level the scorched land. However, the Logan Fire Chief advised against disturbing the soil for at least six months, warning that buried embers could reignite if exposed to air. Despite concerns and a detailed discussion—including video footage provided by Mr. Edgett—the commissioners upheld the fire department's guidance.

Additionally, the commission discussed a resident’s request to have their private driveway cleared during snow events for health-related concerns. While sympathetic, commissioners agreed the request did not meet the criteria for public service intervention.

Laughlin also announced his intent to retire in September 2025 and is actively recruiting seasonal mower operators through flyers and website postings.

Solid Waste Upgrades ApprovedTed White presented the status of the Top Coat machine at the county landfill. Commissioners authorized the purchase of a new unit from Kincaid for $32,000, using Solid Waste Capital Outlay funds, and agreed to sell the existing machine “as is.” White also announced the county-wide cleanup event will take place April 28–30, with a one-load limit per household.

Executive SessionsThe meeting included several executive sessions concerning non-elected personnel—particularly within the Road and Bridge Department. While multiple sessions were held throughout the morning, no action was taken following any of them.

Law Enforcement UpdatesDeputy Adam Wahlmeier addressed the commission about complications with the Sheriff's K-9 unit. While the dog has performed well in the field, obedience issues and a lack of handler availability prompted a recommendation to discontinue the program. The commissioners offered no objection. Wahlmeier also noted department staffing was strained by a mandatory 24-hour mental health security detail, complicated further by staff absences due to illness and vacation.

Final ActionsThe commission approved the purchase of 30 grader blades at $66.46 per blade. With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 11:23 a.m.

The April 7 meeting reflected the county’s ongoing focus on balancing public safety, budget stewardship, and personnel management during a busy spring season.