The Rich County Commission met on June 3, 2026, at the County Courthouse in Randolph to conduct official business. During the meeting, commissioners approved the agenda and discussed updates from the Bear River Health Department and local infrastructure projects.
Estee Hunt and Trevor Cook of the Bear River Health Department presented the 2025 annual report. The report highlighted TB monitoring follow-ups for 124 patients funded by county dollars, the launch of a new public health data dashboard supported by the CDC Foundation, and a rapid measles exposure response recognized in the New England Journal of Medicine. Additionally, the department reported a nearly 200% increase in clients served for behavioral health services and a 94% tobacco retailer compliance rate. The department noted that next year's budget is expected to increase by approximately $1.0 million as behavioral health funding flows through the health department to Bear River Mental Health.
Trevor Cook also presented the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Area Plan. Following a public hearing with no public comment, the Board of Health recommended the plan for county approval. It was noted that Bear River Mental Health will rename to Bear River Behavioral Health effective July 1, 2026, as substance use and mental health services are combined under capitated Medicaid. A new receiving center was scheduled to open June 24, 2026.
The Commission approved a $2,500 contribution to the Rich County Conservation District, which supports local grazing improvement programs and provides agricultural equipment to area producers.
Regarding infrastructure, the Commission awarded the Sweetwater Park Drive pavement overlay bid to Consolidated Paving of Ogden, with work anticipated to begin in late July 2026. Road Supervisor Brandon Rowe reported on a structural failure of a concrete bridge on Sterling Lane that was constructed in 1952. Staff plans to install two culverts as a temporary measure while long-term replacement funding is sought.
Garden City Fire District Board Chairman Randall Knight provided an update via telephone regarding a new lot. The district is seeking CDBG grant funding through BRAG to cover site improvements, including approximately three feet of fill dirt estimated to cost over $100,000. The Commissioners confirmed the fire district qualifies as a government entity to serve as its own grant sponsor.
Other business included discussions regarding a contract amendment for GIS Engineering Services with Sunrise Engineering. The Commission directed staff to resolve outstanding deliverable issues before proceeding. The meeting concluded with the approval of personal property tax exemptions and the May 2026 expenditures.
