Bullhook study to begin

Later this week or early next week, representatives of Great West Engineering of Billings will be walking along the Bullhook to survey how structurally sound the infrastructure is.

Engineers will make recommendations to city of Havre officials by the end of March on what repairs need to be made to ensure that the creek is safe.

City Council Monday night unanimously approved spending $35,000 — $20,000 from state grants and $15,000 from city coffers — to conduct the engineering study.

Concern was raised after a portion of the 500 Block of 2nd Street that is built over the Bullhook collapsed into the creek during October. The street remains blocked off.

Great West will make recommendations on what needs to be done to ensure safety, Mayor Tim Solomon said. The company will also suggest priorities.

Several city streets were built over the creek in the first half of the 20th century, and there has been some concern that the infrastructure is wearing out.

Solomon said city officials hope that not much work will need to be done, but the study is the only way to find out for sure.

If the firm can come up with recommendations by March, Solomon said, the city can apply for money from the Treasure State Endowment Program to fund the next phase.

In other business at Monday’s meeting, council approved 7-1 a proposal to maintain its membership in the Highway 2 Association.

The private group lobbies on behalf of making U.S. Highway 2 four lanes from the North Dakota border across Montana. It has also extended its focus into expanding hours for the Port of Wild Horse, and it has worked with transportation groups from around the country to set up expand transportation routes throughout the west.

Councilman Andrew Brekke, who has always voted against the membership, did so again Monday.

He said the city traditionally does not join special organizations except for the Havre Area Chamber of Commerce.

He said it would be more appropriate if council members voted to join as individuals.

Council unanimously ratified Solomon’s appointment of Debi Rhines as a member of the Planning Board.

Solomon issued a proclamation declaring this week as Boy Scout Week in Havre. He praised the organization, its members and leaders for their community work.

Scouts led the council and audience members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance at the start of the meeting.