Strawberry River. Elk numbers and locations were recorded with GPS technology. UDWR has 40 elk in the Current Creek sub-unit with GPS collars, and 32 were on the Tabby Mountain WMA. The Tabby Mountain WMA had 2,403 of the counted elk. This is a significant portion of the Current Creek elk population, at 73% of counted elk living on the WMA.
The Current Creek sub-unit is approximately 430,880 acres. The Tabby Mountain WMA is 46,925 acres. The WMA represents 11% of the surface area of the Current Creek sub-unit. However, it contained 73% of the wintering elk population. The high elk use of the WMA can be attributed to a few factors, possibly including: 1.) The WMA contains high-quality winter habitat for elk, and 2.) Reduced human presence and activity, especially vehicular activity, has resulted in an area where elk feel safe and not forced to look for other hiding areas.
UDWR Wildlife Biologists’ Mule deer classification in November and December 2023 revealed 40% of Mule deer on the unit were on the Tabby Mountain WMA.
Commissioner Killian made a motion to continue the road closures from December 1st through April 30th on the Tabby Mountain WMA. Commissioner Hansen seconded the motion. Commissioner Killian voted aye, and Commissioner Hansen voted aye. The motion passed.
Discussion Duchesne County, Chamber of Commerce Update
Yvonne Gardner and Jenny Adams, with the Chamber of Commerce supporting Duchesne County, introduced themselves. They presented flyers for the upcoming trainings, Women in Business, Be the Better Boss, and Entry Level to Success. The parties discuss the training and the benefits for everyone who attends. The Chamber of Commerce would like financial support from the County. Commissioner Hansen explained how the B.E.A.R. grant paid for one of their employees' salaries in the past and how they will give support.
Recess 9:56 a.m. to 10:01 a.m.
Commissioner Killian made a motion to recess. Commissioner Hansen seconded the motion. Commissioner Killian voted aye, and Commissioner Hansen voted aye. The motion passed.
Auditors Office - Surplus
Clerk-Auditor Chelise Jessen presented a list of items from the Building & Grounds Department to be listed on the Surplus website. The parties review the items. Commissioner Killian made a motion to authorize the surplus items for the Building & Grounds Department as presented. Commissioner Hansen seconded the motion. Commissioner Killian voted aye, and Commissioner Hansen voted aye. The motion passed.
Discussion & Consideration of Lease Agreement with TriCounty Health
Bruce McKee, the Finance Director with TriCounty Health, introduced himself and presented the lease agreement. Duchesne County owns the office building and property in Roosevelt, Utah. The lease term is five years, starting January 1, 2022, and ending December 31, 2027. The Utah Code 26A-1-115 (2) states, "The cost of providing, equipping, and maintaining suitable offices and facilities for a local health department is the responsibility of participating governing bodies.” The County agrees to provide TriCounty Health with the leased premises for the term indicated on an in-kind basis.