by April Scheinoha
Editor
It will soon be a little easier for the Pennington County Highway Department to communicate with others while on the road. At its meeting Tuesday, July 8, the Pennington County Board approved a quote for 18 portable radios for the Highway Department.
Roger’s Two Way Radio provided the low quote of $81,931.62. Stones Mobile Radio had the other quote.
County Engineer Mike Flaagan said county leaders have talked about upgrading the Highway Department’s portable radios for years. He previously indicated the Highway Department’s communication capabilities with the sheriff’s office and ambulance services aren’t what they could be.
Once the Highway Department has switched to the new handheld portable radios, county leaders may consider selling two county-owned radio towers. The Highway Department is the only department currently using those radio towers. One is located along Pennington County State Aid Highway 20 near Hazel and the other is located in Smiley Township.
County Board approved obtaining paid family medical leave insurance through MetLife, effective Jan. 1, 2026.
County Coordinator Kevin Erickson said the county expected to save about $8,000 per year, split between the employees and the county, by going with MetLife instead of the state plan. The county currently uses MetLife for its dental insurance.
The next County Board meeting is scheduled Tuesday, July 22 at 10 a.m. at the Justice Center.