County Voter Information On Sheriff's Department Mill Levy
 | Author:
Broadwater County Sheriff Nick Rauser
Nancy Marks: MT43 News Secretary and News Editor |
County Voter Information on Sheriff's Department Mill Levy
Nick Rauser
Broadwater County Sheriff
In an effort to bolster law enforcement services and address growing public safety needs, a proposed mill levy of 39.93 mills for the Sheriff's Office is being considered by voters in the county. This mill levy would be a continuation of the measure passed five years ago, which initially provided essential funding for the Sheriff's Office. If passed, the updated levy would ensure continued resources to enhance operations, staffing, and community safety.
The mill levy currently accounts for approximately one-third of the Sheriff's Office budget, with 77 percent of that budget allocated to personnel costs. Over the past few years, the department has made adjustments to meet the evolving needs of the community. Sheriff Nick Rauser highlighted that the department recently added two new positions—one as a school resource officer to enhance safety at the school, and another to serve the southern end of Broadwater County, improving response times and support for residents in that area. This position was offered as a conditional offer to a resident of the area. Also, with the levy 5 years ago two other Deputy positions were added.
"We want to continue to provide the services that we are currently providing," Sheriff Rauser said. "I don't want to lose what we have been able to build the last five years." He emphasized that the funding would help ensure the Sheriff's Office could maintain the level of service residents have come to rely on, especially as demands continue to grow.
In an effort to mitigate the financial burden on local residents, Sheriff Rauser has decided to mill 20 percent less this upcoming year. He explained that he took into consideration the increased property taxes, rising water rates, and increased solid waste fees that residents are facing. "I understand the financial pressures on our community, and I want to be mindful of that while still ensuring the Sheriff's Office can operate at a high level of service," Rauser said.
The new mill levy would continue the funding stream set in motion by the original measure passed five years ago, which has provided much-needed resources for the Sheriff's Office. However, with the increasing demands of law enforcement in the county, the levy would allow for continued improvements and ensure the office remains well-equipped to handle future challenges.
The county commissioners have continued their support for the Sheriff's Office, with 34.4 percent of the floating mills dedicated to the department. This ongoing support has been crucial to the Sheriff's Office's ability to maintain operations and address the needs of the growing community.
Here is a breakdown of what that would mean for property owners:
• A $100,000 house would cost $53.91 per year or approximately 15 cents per day.
• A $300,000 house would cost $161.72 per year or approximately 44 cents per day.
• A $600,000 house would cost $323.43 per year or approximately 89 cents per day
.
The mill levy vote will take place on May 6th, 2025, during the upcoming special election with the school board. The outcome will have a significant impact on the Sheriff's Office's ability to serve the community effectively and ensure the safety and security of county residents for years to come.
For more information about the mill levy or to learn more about how the funds would be used, call Sheriff Rauser at 406-266-9265 or attend one of the upcoming public forums being held in the coming weeks.
