Gallatin County is introducing a new program that offers adult criminal defendants an alternative to traditional sentencing. The Pretrial Intervention Via Opportunities and Treatment (PIVOT) Program is designed to help participants change behaviors, make amends to victims, and avoid a conviction through tailored interventions and support.  

Developed by the Gallatin County Attorney’s Office and Gallatin County Court Services, the PIVOT Program evaluates defendants through an evidence-based needs assessment (ORAS) to identify the underlying factors contributing to criminal behavior. Based on the assessment, a court services officer develops a customized plan for the defendant to address accountability, victim restoration, the defendant’s barriers to health, and connects the defendant to services offered in the community.    

Participants who meet the program’s criteria may be diverted to the program before charges are filed or may be offered a deferred prosecution agreement by the prosecutor. This agreement allows defendants to avoid prosecution and/or a conviction if they fulfill the conditions of the program, which includes supervision, treatment, and accountability measures.  

“Research shows that diverting low-risk offenders to community supervision, rather than imprisonment, is highly effective in reducing recidivism,” said Gallatin County Attorney Audrey Cromwell. “We designed the PIVOT program to address the root causes of criminal behavior and strengthen positive ties to the community. Studies show that when offenders receive the support and rehabilitation they need, they are less likely to re-offend, which ultimately makes our community safer. For instance, if someone is unhoused and struggling with addiction, Court Services can connect them with housing assistance through HRDC, counseling from a licensed addiction counselor, and regular drug and alcohol testing for accountability. Too often, we see the same individuals repeatedly on our dockets. With this program, we aim to equip offenders with the tools for lasting, healthy change so they don’t fall back into the criminal justice system.” 

The program’s goals are to enhance community safety and reduce recidivism by addressing the root causes of criminal behavior. PIVOT emphasizes both rehabilitation and accountability, encouraging defendants to take responsibility, make amends to victims, and engage in meaningful change. Eligible participants are first-time felony and misdemeanor defendants with identifiable treatment, counseling or education needs that can be met within Gallatin County. However, those charged with felony sexual or violent crimes, DUIs, or who have prior convictions are ineligible. 

Participants will be referred to the program and assessed by prosecutors, defense attorneys, and Court Services officers.  

Steve Ette, Director of Gallatin County Court Services, explained, “We’ve consistently emphasized restorative justice, which holds offenders accountable, repairs the harm done to victims, reduces repeat offenses, and enhances public safety. By using evidence-based assessments, officers can evaluate an individual’s criminogenic risks—such as attitudes, beliefs, and thinking patterns—along with their needs, including employment, housing, substance abuse treatment, or mental health care. This helps officers motivate offenders to develop personalized plans to address these issues while ensuring compliance. The cost savings from reducing court caseloads and conserving criminal justice resources for lower-risk offenders should outweigh the minimal program expenses.” 

Planning a cross-country move can be both exciting and overwhelming, particularly when it comes to budgeting. The costs associated with moving can add up quickly, and without a clear budget, you may find yourself facing unexpected expenses. To help you navigate this process, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to create a cross-country moving budget, including essential expenses to consider.

1. Start with a Moving Estimate

Before diving into the specifics of your budget, it’s essential to get a moving estimate. Many reliable cross country movers offer free quotes based on your specific needs, including the distance of the move, the size of your household, and any additional services you may require.

When requesting quotes, make sure to provide accurate details about your belongings, such as the number of rooms and large items like furniture and appliances. Obtaining multiple estimates will help you gauge the average cost and assist in setting a realistic budget.

2. Factor in Moving Company Costs

Moving company costs can vary significantly depending on various factors. Here are some expenses to include in your budget:

Transportation fees: This is often the largest expense, covering the cost of loading, transporting, and unloading your belongings.

Packing services: If you choose to have professional packers, this service will incur additional fees. Some companies offer packing supplies, which may also be included in the overall cost.

Insurance: Consider purchasing additional moving insurance to protect your belongings during transit. Basic coverage may be included, but it might not cover the full value of your items.

Extra services: If you need additional services like storage, disassembly and reassembly of furniture, or special handling for fragile items, these will add to your costs.

Be sure to ask about any hidden fees, such as fuel charges or charges for moving heavy items up multiple flights of stairs.

3. Include Personal Transportation Costs
If you’re driving to your new location, it’s important to factor in personal transportation costs as well. This includes:

Gas: Estimate the total distance of your drive and calculate fuel costs based on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Consider current gas prices to get a realistic estimate.
Accommodation: If your move takes multiple days, budget for hotel stays or temporary lodging along the way.
Food: Plan for meals during your journey, whether you’ll be dining out or purchasing groceries for the road.

4. Account for Miscellaneous Expenses
In addition to the major costs, don’t forget to budget for miscellaneous expenses that often arise during a move. These can include:

Cleaning fees: If you’re renting, you may need to pay for a professional cleaning service to leave your old place in good condition. Alternatively, you might want to allocate time and funds for cleaning supplies.
Home repairs: If you own your home, factor in any potential repairs you might need to make before selling or handing over the property.
Storage fees: If there’s a gap between moving out of your old home and into your new one, you might need temporary storage solutions. Research storage facilities and their costs in advance.
New household items: Consider budgeting for any new furniture or appliances you might need once you arrive at your new location.

5. Plan for Utility Deposits and Other Setup Costs
When moving to a new home, you may need to set up utilities and services. Be sure to include these costs in your budget:

Utility deposits: Many utility companies require deposits for new customers, especially if you’re moving to a new area.
Internet and cable setup: Budget for installation fees if you plan to have internet and cable services set up in your new home.
Renter’s or homeowner’s insurance: This is another essential cost to consider, especially if you’re renting or buying a new home.

6. Create a Contingency Fund
No matter how well you plan, unexpected expenses can arise during a move. It’s wise to set aside a contingency fund, typically around 10-15% of your overall moving budget. This fund can help cover any unforeseen costs, such as last-minute repairs, additional moving supplies, or unexpected travel expenses.

7. Track Your Expenses
As you plan your move, keep meticulous records of your expenses. Use a spreadsheet or budgeting app to track all costs associated with your move. This will help you stay on top of your budget and ensure you’re not overspending in any one area.

Conclusion
Creating a comprehensive moving budget is crucial for a successful cross-country move. By accounting for all essential expenses, including moving company costs, personal transportation, miscellaneous fees, utility deposits, and a contingency fund, you can better prepare for the financial aspects of your relocation. With a clear budget in place, you’ll have greater peace of mind as you embark on this exciting new chapter in your life.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular, driving up demand for reliable and efficient home charging solutions. Choosing the right EV charger for your home installation is important to ensure your EV is always ready to go. Reliable charging enhances overall EV performance, saves time, and minimizes energy waste. Efficient home charging solutions also reduce downtime and support eco-friendly driving habits. 

By selecting the right charger, you optimize your EV ownership experience, ensure seamless daily driving, and maximize the benefits of electric vehicle ownership.

Why Choosing the Right EV Charger is Important?

Public charging stations are becoming more common, but having your own EV charger at home is a game-changer. Instead of planning trips around charging availability, you can charge your vehicle overnight and wake up to a fully charged battery. Also, home charging is often more cost-effective, as many utility companies offer discounted rates during off-peak hours.The key to reaping these benefits is choosing the right EV charger for your home installation, which can vary depending on factors like the size of your vehicle's battery, your driving habits, and your home’s electrical system.

What Are the Types of EV Chargers?

An EV charger is a device that connects your electric car to a power source. It's like a big phone charger for your car. The charger takes electricity from your home and safely puts it into your car's battery. There are three main types of EV chargers:
Level 1 Chargers: These are the slowest and use a regular home outlet.
Level 2 Chargers: These are faster and need a special 240-volt outlet.
DC Fast Chargers: These are super fast but are usually only found in public places.

For home use, we'll focus on Level 1 and Level 2 chargers. Level 1 chargers are slow and suitable for short distances. Level 2 chargers offer faster charging, ideal for regular EV users, requiring 240-volt outlet installation for long-term efficiency.

What Are the Factors to Consider When Choosing an EV Charger?

Choosing the right EV charger requires evaluating several factors that ensure compatibility and efficiency with your electric vehicle and home setup. These are the key things you should consider:

1. Your Car's Charging Capabilities
Different electric cars can handle different charging speeds. Some cars can charge faster than others. Check your car's manual or ask the dealer about its charging abilities. This will help you pick a charger that works best with your car.

2. Your Daily Driving Needs
Think about how far you drive each day. If you don't drive much, a slower Level 1 charger might be enough. But if you drive a lot, a faster Level 2 charger could be better. It's like choosing between a small water bottle and a big one - pick the size that fits your needs.

3. Your Home's Electrical System
For homeowners in Northern Virginia and Montgomery County, EV charger installation services from companies like beaconelectricalservices.com can help assess your electrical system and ensure it’s up to the task. Some homes might need upgrades to handle a faster charger. It's a good idea to have an electrician check your home's electrical system before you buy a charger.

4. Installation Location
Where will you put your charger? Think about where you park your car and how close that is to your home's electrical panel. The closer, the better. Also, make sure the charger will be protected from rain and snow if it's outside.

5. Budget Considerations
EV chargers come in different prices. Faster chargers usually cost more. But remember, a more expensive charger might save you money over time if it charges your car faster and more efficiently.6. Smart FeaturesSome chargers have cool features like smartphone apps or scheduling options. These can help you charge your car when electricity is cheaper or track how much energy you're using.

How to Choose the Right Charging Speed for Your Needs?

When deciding on a charging speed, consider how often you’ll need to charge your vehicle. If you drive a lot and often come home with a nearly empty battery, a faster Level 2 charger will save you time and ensure your car is ready for your next journey.For people who drive less frequently or only short distances, a Level 1 charger may provide enough power to recharge your battery overnight without the need for additional investment in installation.

What are the Benefits of Professional EV Charger Installation

Installing an EV charger isn't a DIY project for most people. It's best to hire a professional electrician who has experience with EV charger installation services. They can:
• Check if your home's electrical system can handle the charger
• Suggest any necessary upgrades
• Install the charger safely and according to local codes
• Set up any smart features or Wi-Fi connectivity

Remember, proper installation is necessary for the safety and optimal performance of your EV charger.

Why Maintaining Your EV Charger is Necessary?

Once you've chosen and installed your EV charger, it's important to take care of it. Here are some tips:
•Keep the charger clean and dry
•Check the cable and plug regularly for any signs of wear
• Follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions
• If you notice any problems, stop using the charger and call a professional

By taking good care of your charger, you'll ensure it lasts a long time and keeps your EV running smoothly.

Conclusion

Choosing the right EV charger for your home installation is an important decision. By considering your car's capabilities, your driving needs, your home's electrical system, and your budget, you can find the perfect charger for you. Remember to look for safety features, consider future needs, and always have your charger installed by a professional.

The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a homicide that occurred along Moose Creek Road, near the intersection with Tamphery Creek Road, north of Big Sky.

At 10:07 a.m. on Saturday, October 12, 2024, a caller reported discovering a deceased male in a tent approximately 2.5 miles up Moose Creek Road. The caller indicated that the death may have been caused by a bear attack. Units from the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, U.S. Forest Service, Montana Highway Patrol, and Big Sky Fire Department responded to the location.

A Montana FWP agent with expertise in bear attacks responded and did not find any signs of bear activity at the scene. This prompted investigators to treat the case as a homicide. Evidence gathered through an autopsy further indicated that this was a homicide.

The victim has been identified as 35-year-old Dustin Mitchell Kjersem, 35, of Belgrade, Montana.

This incident was a vicious attack, and detectives are working hard to develop and track down leads. A suspect has not been arrested at this time. If you or someone you know was in the area within the past week, and made any observations, please contact the Sheriff’s Office. Also, anyone with game or trail cameras in the area is asked to contact the GCSO Detectives Division at 406-582-2121 or by email at detectives@gallatin.mt.gov.

Calling all artists! Gallatin County wants YOU to bring your creativity to life in the new courts building, slated to open in early 2025! We're looking for pieces that represent justice, reconciliation, and peace—themes that will help set a serene and healing tone throughout the building.

This is your chance to make a lasting impact! The 67,000-square-foot facility in Bozeman will house District, Justice and Youth courts, the Self-Help Law Center and more. It’s a community space where your art can truly inspire!

The commissioned artist (or team!) will create a site-specific installation that ties into the building’s design and its mission of justice and community healing.Deadline: Sealed proposals are due Monday, Nov. 11 at 10 AM!Ready to create something extraordinary? Get all the details and submission info on our website: https://lnkd.in/gc-8uYer

Traditional third-party risk management processes are often manual, time-consuming, and prone to human error. By introducing AI into the mix, businesses can leverage data-driven insights to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of these processes. AI-powered TPRM tools utilize machine learning, automation, and predictive analytics to provide businesses with a more robust understanding of potential risks, allowing for real-time decision-making and continuous monitoring. This modern approach transforms the way companies approach vendor management, reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing operational resilience.

Automating Vendor Risk Assessments with AI

Streamlines the Process
The process of assessing vendor risk can be labor-intensive, requiring the collection and analysis of vast amounts of data. Automating vendor risk assessments with AI simplifies this by using algorithms to analyze data quickly and efficiently. AI tools evaluate a vendor’s financial stability, cybersecurity posture, and compliance with industry standards. This automated process minimizes manual tasks, allowing risk management teams to focus on higher-level decision-making. With AI-driven TPRM systems in place, businesses gain faster insights into potential risks, making it easier to flag high-risk vendors early in the assessment process, thus minimizing disruptions.

Automating Data Collection
Automating vendor risk decisions with AI tools continuously scans and gathers data from various sources such as financial reports, news articles, and industry databases. This data is then automatically analyzed to generate risk profiles for each vendor. These real-time insights allow businesses to stay up-to-date on changing risk factors, enabling more proactive risk management. Unlike traditional methods, which rely on periodic assessments, leveraging AI for vendor risk visibility provides continuous updates, reducing the chances of missing emerging threats.

Reducing Human Error
Human error is a significant risk factor in manual risk evaluations, often leading to overlooked threats or misinterpretations of data. AI-powered TPRM systems help reduce these errors by offering more consistent and accurate evaluations. Algorithms are less prone to fatigue or bias, meaning they can assess risks based on data-driven criteria without subjective influences. Additionally, these AI tools can cross-check data from multiple sources, further improving the reliability of assessments.

Faster and More Accurate
Speed and accuracy are crucial in vendor risk management, particularly when dealing with large networks of suppliers. AI TPRM tools provide faster assessments by automating repetitive tasks such as data entry, risk scoring, and report generation. This not only saves time but also enhances the accuracy of risk assessments. Businesses can receive comprehensive vendor risk profiles in minutes, rather than days or weeks. TPRM solutions powered by AI also adapt to evolving risk factors, ensuring assessments remain accurate as new data becomes available.

Key Benefits of AI-Driven TPRM for Businesses

Improved Vendor Risk Visibility
Traditional methods often provide only a snapshot of vendor risk at a single point in time. In contrast, AI continuously monitors vendors and updates risk data in real-time. This constant flow of information gives businesses a comprehensive view of their vendor landscape, allowing them to identify hidden risks or emerging threats before they escalate. AI tools can analyze patterns across different vendors, offering deeper insights into broader trends in supply chain risk.

Reducing Response Times
In today’s fast-paced business environment, the ability to respond quickly to new risks is critical. AI for vendor risk management significantly reduces response times by automating the detection of emerging threats. When a vendor’s risk profile changes—whether due to financial instability, cybersecurity incidents, or regulatory violations—AI systems can immediately alert the risk management team. This notification system ensures businesses can take swift corrective actions to mitigate potential damage.

Lowering Operational Costs
The implementation of AI-driven TPRM solutions also contributes to significant cost savings. Automation lowers labor costs while also reducing the potential for expensive errors caused by human oversight. Furthermore, third-party risk automation reduces the reliance on external consultants or specialized staff for risk assessments, cutting down on consultancy fees. Businesses can allocate resources more efficiently, using AI to handle routine tasks while risk managers focus on more strategic activities.

Enabling Risk Management Teams to Focus on Strategic Tasks
By offloading routine tasks, teams can dive deeper into critical aspects like vendor relationships, contract negotiations, and risk mitigation planning. This shift in focus leads to a more proactive approach to managing risks while improving the overall resilience of the organization.

• Building Stronger Vendor Relationships: Instead of constantly processing vendor data manually, teams can engage in deeper discussions with key partners. Strengthening vendor relationships means more than just reviewing contracts—it involves understanding a vendor's long-term goals, capabilities, and alignment with the organization’s risk tolerance. By building mutual trust and open communication, risk managers can work collaboratively with vendors to improve compliance and performance. In return, these strong partnerships help mitigate risks more effectively, as vendors are more likely to alert organizations to potential issues before they escalate.

• Negotiating Better Contracts: By handling repetitive tasks, AI allows professionals to analyze vendor performance and risks more comprehensively before entering negotiations. This data helps highlight areas where improvements can be made, such as better pricing, stricter compliance clauses, or stronger service-level agreements. With more time and information, teams can negotiate terms that better align with the organization’s risk appetite, safeguarding the company’s interests while also ensuring vendors understand their responsibilities clearly. Improved contract terms ultimately lead to more secure, mutually beneficial partnerships.

• Implementing Risk Mitigation Strategies: Shifting away from manual data entry and vendor analysis allows risk management teams to concentrate on developing and executing comprehensive risk mitigation strategies. These strategies are crucial in ensuring the organization is prepared for long-term risks that may arise from vendor relationships. AI’s real-time data and advanced analytics enable teams to identify emerging risks and trends faster, giving them a better understanding of where to focus their mitigation efforts. By actively planning and implementing strategies, such as diversifying vendors or adjusting risk management policies, teams can create a robust framework for minimizing potential disruptions and ensuring operational continuity.

When AI handles the repetitive tasks that once bogged down risk management teams, it opens the door for professionals to elevate their work to a more strategic level. Instead of simply reacting to risks, teams can proactively manage vendor relationships, negotiate smarter contracts, and implement thoughtful, long-term strategies.

AI Tools for Enhanced Risk Monitoring and Decision-Making

Leveraging Machine Learning and Predictive Analytics
Both are central components of modern AI tools for TPRM, offering a powerful way to anticipate and manage risks. These AI systems learn from historical data and identify patterns that might indicate potential future risks, enabling businesses to proactively address issues before they materialize.

How Natural Language Processing Enhances Risk Analysis
Another key element of AI-enabled third-party risk management is the use of natural language processing (NLP). NLP allows AI systems to analyze unstructured data, such as news articles, legal documents, or social media posts, for signs of potential risk. This type of data is often overlooked in traditional assessments, which typically rely on structured data like financial reports. With NLP, businesses can capture a broader view of a vendor’s risk profile, including reputational risks or compliance issues.

Continuous Vendor Monitoring
Often performed periodically, traditional risk assessments leave gaps in between where new risks could emerge unnoticed. AI fills this gap by offering 24/7 monitoring, ensuring that any changes in a vendor’s risk profile are detected immediately. A proactive approach allows businesses to address risks in real time rather than waiting for the next scheduled assessment. Continuous monitoring also helps to identify subtle shifts in vendor behavior, providing early warnings of potential issues that could escalate if left unaddressed.

The benefits of integrating AI into risk management strategies are clear: faster response times, enhanced risk assessments, and improved compliance monitoring. As AI technology continues to advance, businesses that embrace these tools will be better equipped to handle the complexities of global supply chains and regulatory requirements. The automation of routine risk management tasks frees up resources, allowing risk teams to focus on more strategic initiatives. Implementing AI is a forward-thinking approach that not only mitigates risks but also strengthens vendor relationships.

The Gallatin Hockey Officials Association is looking to add more officials for the 2024/25 season and beyond. This is a great opportunity to stay involved with hockey, challenge yourself to learn more about the game, give back to the community, and make a little bit of money in the process. Registration with USA Hockey must be complete by October 31st and certification must be complete by December 31st. 

Join us for an on ice educational opportunity October 12th from 10:45am to 11:45am to learn about the basics of referee positioning.

Questions?
Kyler Harris
harris.kyler@gmail.com
ghoamt.com

Montana Farmers Union applauds the United States Department of Agriculture announcement this week about a series of actions in support of a fair and competitive agriculture market.

"We appreciate the efforts of the Biden administration to increase more fairness in the marketplace for farmers and consumers. Holding the corporate monopolies accountable and more transparency in the marketplace are critical to creating a fair market. Increasing investments in local food production and processing helps create a more resilient and healthier food supply chain," MFU President Walter Schweitzer said.

The USDA's announcement included a new framework for improving research access to seed germplasm that helps to guarantee that seed choices are driven by innovation and the demands of sustainability. 

The findings of a USDA interim report on competition in the meat retail industry also were released, further illustrating a concerning level of consolidation that makes it increasingly difficult for family farmers and ranchers to compete.

Additionally, the USDA announced efforts to enhance price discovery in cattle markets and enforce the Packers & Stockyards Act.
 
The USDA's actions are warranted to create a more level playing field in the face of industry consolidation that means roughly 80 percent of meat processing capacity is controlled by four large meat packers, Schweitzer said.

"MFU looks forward to the continued pressure on big business to be more transparent and forcing them to stop taking advantage of farmers and consumers," he said.

Click here to read the full USDA announcement.