Clearwater County and the Village of Caroline are continuing the process of exploring the possibility of amalgamating.

The two municipalities are hosting another public engagement presentation and information session Monday evening.

County officials say, it is important to note that no final decision has been made yet about amalgamation by either the Village Council or Clearwater County Council.

The County says it is now at the engagement stage and is inviting residents to participate at in-person sessions scheduled Monday evening for 6:30-8:00 p.m. at the Caroline Community Hub. The next public engagement presentation information session is a virtual online Zoom meeting on Mar. 23 from 6:30-8:00 p.m.

According to Clearwater County officials, the topic of amalgamating the Village of Caroline and Clearwater County is not new to the municipalities or its citizens. Keeping two separate governance structures and systems for the two municipalities with a combined population of approximately 12,500 is not described as efficient. The Village of Caroline and Clearwater County say they have numerous active partnerships together and many view the Village of Caroline and Clearwater County as relying on each other for various services, making this a logical initiative.

County officials say public engagement and input is crucial to this study. Residents, local business owners, and community groups can attend the above listed presentation dates or complete a short survey that will be made available in the near future.

Registration for the virtual session on March 23 is being taken through Eventbrite. Click here to register.