Sanders County is still searching for a new sanitarian, months after the position became vacant.

During an Oct. 9 update with county commissioners, Human Resource Director Rich Wallace said applicants have been scarce. So far, only two people have applied for the full-time role.

“This has been the toughest position we’ve had to fill,” Wallace said.

The position opened in June following the departure of Jeremy Leavitt. A contract sanitarian has been completing the job duties in the interim.

The job posting lists the wage at $30 per hour, depending on experience. For comparison, Gallatin County's starting wage for a sanitarian is listed at $30-$35 per hour.

The sanitarian is responsible for conducting public health inspections at restaurants, hospitals, schools, pools and other swimming areas. Duties also include inspections of public water and sewer systems.

The county is also seeking detention officers. Wallace said there is a need for a female officer, as only one woman currently works at the detention center.

“We’re still trying to beat the bushes and find detention officers,” Wallace said.

Also at the Oct. 9 meeting, commissioners rejected a request from BNSF Railway for a release agreement involving a railroad crossing at Panorama Road.

The crossing has been closed for several years but remains available for emergency access. The county attorney advised against the agreement, saying the county should not relinquish its right to use the crossing in emergencies.

“There could be other things besides a fire,” Commissioner Dan Rowan said. “That’s obviously what you think of, but if you had a train derailment that was blocking the one crossing, residents will need another way out.”

The county would have received $5,000 if the deal had been approved.

“For $5,000, I don’t think it’s worth putting the public at risk,” Commissioner Anthony Cox said.