After the recent Montana Land Board decision to approve an $86 million bid for state coal leases, there is the possibility some of the money could be used to fund the projects instead. Schweitzer said previously,however, with the release of the funds, he could personally inspect the projects to make sure they qualify.

The freeze, which has turned political, continues to baffle local officials here in Richland County.Fairview mayor Bryan Cummins said he was frustrated with the money that was designated for park bathrooms renovation.

Commissioner Mark Rehbein said he’s been on the phone with commissioners and senators who have also expressed irritation that the money, which was to be released a while ago, hasn’t been released.

“I just don’t know how he (Schweitzer) can do it. The money was committed to us. It’s very frustrating when you can’t trust the administration at the state level to honor the obligation they need to,” Rehbein said.
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