Emergency Management Update
Emergency Management Director Josh Phillips provided an update to the public on the current fire situations in the Uinta Basin. The weather is expected to be in the 90s this week. There is a chance of thunderstorms for the next three days. There is a high chance of lightning striking fires. Last week, a human-caused fire occurred in Fruitland. The structure that burnt was a tack shed. There was also a fire in Hanna that started as a wildland fire, catching the cotton on the ground and then spreading to a home. The home was a total loss. There are a few cottonwood trees that are still on fire that they are monitoring.
Discussion of Fire Restrictions
Duchesne County Fire Warden Brandon Peck presented the Uintah Basin FDRA Fire Restriction Guidelines, which show Restriction Factors. He explained that, given the current weather conditions, fuel moisture content, and other factors, the County is under a Stage 1 Fire Restriction Order. Commissioner Miles expressed his frustration that there was no communication between the State and the County before the County was put under a Fire Restriction. Director Phillips explained that this year is trending similarly to 2007 and 2012. They saw fire issues in both of those years. The municipalities are not subject to fireworks restrictions.
Children’s Justice Center Annual Report
Children’s Justice Center Director Cheryl Boren introduced herself, Cicile Rios, and Tiffany Reyes. She presented the Duchesne County CJC Statistical Report from July 1, 2024, through May 31, 2025. This report presents the number of new cases, the number of interviews conducted, the types of abuse reported, the number of therapy sessions provided, the demographic information of the victims, the total number of suspects, the relationship of the suspect to the primary victim, and the ages and genders of the suspects.
Discussion & Consideration of the Children’s Justice Center Mental Health Contract
Children’s Justice Center Director Cheryl Boren presented the Contract for Services for a Mental Health Treatment Provider. She explained that Cicile Rios is the Mental Health Provider. She has been providing this service for six years. Commissioner Chugg made a motion to approve the Mental Health Treatment Provider Contract with the Children’s Justice Center. Commissioner Killian seconded the motion. Commissioner Chugg voted aye, Commissioner Killian voted aye, and Commissioner Miles voted aye. The motion passed.
Discussion & Consideration of the State of Utah Contract for the Children’s Justice Center
Children’s Justice Center Director Cheryl Boren presented the State of Utah Contract Amendment. She explained that the State looks at the statistics in the County to determine the contract amount. It has increased $203,032.00 for this year. It is reviewed annually and amended as needed. The parties discussed the contract. Commissioner Chugg made a motion to approve the State of Utah Contract Amendment, which is #230346. Commissioner Killian seconded the motion. Commissioner Chugg voted aye, Commissioner Killian voted aye, and Commissioner Miles voted aye. The motion passed.
Discussion of Noxious Weed Issues in Duchesne County
Weed Control Director Braxton Spencer explained there are areas with white top and knapweed in the County. The roadways are also a concern. The grant with UDAF is almost complete; however, there were issues in changing the name from the previous Director. A Dedicated Hunter project, where volunteers sprayed musk thistle, was completed. The parties discussed noxious weed issues with landowners and how the Commission Assistant will assist in sending letters to them. Director Spencer has a good crew that is doing its best to make a difference. He would like to communicate with the Tribal Business Committee regarding noxious weed issues on tribal land.
Recess 9:49 a.m. to 10:10 a.m.
Commissioner Killian made a motion to recess. Commissioner Chugg seconded the motion. Commissioner Killian voted aye, Commissioner Chugg voted aye, and Commissioner Miles voted aye. The motion passed.