Public Meetings - Belgrade, Montana

The Belgrade City Council met on October 20, 2026, to consider a fee schedule amendment, adopt the 2026 Transportation Master Plan, and authorize a joint resolution on behavioral health. All items were approved unanimously. Mayoral Proclamation - Mayor proclaimed November 1, 2026 as "Extra Mile Day" in Belgrade. Public Hearing: Resolution 2026-24 - Amending FY27 Master Fee Schedule - City staff (Ms. Finn Kirk) presented amendments including: adding a fee for utility modeling (vendor fee plus 10% admin fee or $250/hour in-house), minor adjustments to library fees, changing sidewalk right-of-way fees from square feet to linear feet (cost unchanged), consolidating engineering subdivision plat review categories, and moving a backflow protection line. Councilmember Simon noted a possible inconsistency in fire detection/alarm system fees where cost dropped for larger square footages; staff will verify before next amendment. - No public comment. The resolution was adopted unanimously. Discussion Items 2026 Transportation Master Plan Adoption - City engineer presented the plan, developed with Cushing Terrell and Fair & Pears. Updated after September council feedback to include references to rail crossing quiet zones, snow storage in street design, and traffic calming options mindful of snow removal. - Council members praised the document as thorough and well-put-together, noting it provides a framework for project allocation. - A comment from Featherstone Mill Center was received and added to the record. - The plan was adopted unanimously. Joint Resolution Declaring Behavioral Health a Shared Regional Priority - Mayor reported collaboration with Bozeman Mayor Morrison and Gallatin County Commissioner Zach Brown to address behavioral health gaps. The resolution recognizes the issue affects all jurisdictions and often falls to first responders. It does not commit to specific projects but signals regional cooperation. - Council members expressed support, noting high suicide rates in Montana, especially among youth, and the impact on first responders themselves. - No public comment. Council authorized the mayor to sign the resolution on behalf of Belgrade at a future date with Bozeman and Gallatin County. Passed unanimously. Reports - Mayor reported attending the Montana League of Cities and Towns conference. - Assistant city manager noted Burlington Northern work at Jackrabbit crossing, ICMA conference attendance, cancellation of October 26 Planning Commission meeting, and encouraged voting on November 3. - Council members gave updates, including appreciation for public works leaf pickup and a tour of water facilities. Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolution 2026-24 amending the FY27 Master Fee Schedule (unanimous). - Adopted the 2026 Transportation Master Plan (unanimous). - Authorized the mayor to sign the joint resolution on behavioral health (unanimous). - Meeting adjourned.

This summary covers the Belgrade City Council workshop held on October 13, 2026. The primary agenda item was a presentation and discussion of the city's comprehensive Utilities Master Plan, prepared over roughly two and a half years by AE2S with city staff. The council also handled routine administrative matters and opened a public forum, which received no comments. Consent Calendar - Councilmember Aaron Bell was excused from the meeting by unanimous vote (motion by Deputy Mayor Matamo, second by Councilmember McGee). Discussion Items Utilities Master Plan Presentation - City Engineer Chad introduced Brian Vyle and Aidan Schaeffle of AE2S, who presented the plan. - The plan was developed in two phases: Phase One (starting 2024) involved field data collection, including surveying over 300 manholes, installing pressure recorders, collecting wastewater flow data, and holding a community workshop. Phase Two converted the findings into project recommendations. - Water rights analysis by WGM Group projected the city's existing rights will cover peak day demand until roughly 2040 and average daily demand slightly after 2040, assuming 4% annual growth. Because the basin is closed, converting agricultural water rights to municipal use will take years and requires advance planning. - Hydraulic model calibration achieved strong results: water system model accuracy matched tank elevations within less than 3 feet in most cases (target about 5 PSI); wastewater wet-weather flows were within the 20% calibration target. - The plan identified a need for additional storage. A three-million-gallon storage tank is already under design to serve a population of about 16,000; two more tanks totaling 3.5 million gallons will be needed by the time the city reaches 30,000 residents. - Well production capacity is projected to be adequate until population reaches approximately 16,000–17,000, assuming wells 8, 9, 7, and 10 perform as expected. A councilmember noted that pump test data for wells 7 and 10 is not yet available, so assumptions are involved. - Conveyance improvements include a proposed 16-inch transmission main loop around the city core. Deferred maintenance needs include replacing aging hydrants and budgeting for roughly 1% of distribution and sewer system replacement per year. - Cost estimates: approximately $27 million in capital projects plus $20 million in pipe replacements were identified for 2026–2030, with about $150 million in total projects across the long-term planning horizon. The financial assessment showed a large gap between project costs and projected utility income. - Wastewater projects focus on lift station improvements, removal of the Farmers lift station, and a study of the truck stop lift station sewer shed, partly due to uncertainty about growth south of I-90 and the existing I-90 sewer crossing. Council Questions and Discussion - A councilmember asked about the storage requirement calculation. AE2S explained the DEQ-based assumption of one average day demand plus fire flow, which is more conservative than the city's historical approach of relying on well capacity with the largest well out of service. The city engineer noted the new hydraulic model now allows day-to-day capacity tracking. - A councilmember asked about annexing subdivisions with independent water and sewer systems. AE2S responded that engineering evaluations would determine whether to integrate or operate them separately, and that state code compliance would need assessment. - A councilmember questioned whether the financial gap included only a portion of rate income and whether impact fees were included. AE2S indicated the figures came from the city's rate and impact fee study and offered to provide clarification in a follow-up letter. - The city engineer noted the plan is already being used to analyze fire flows for new development and to support a DEQ sewer development plan; a similar water approach is being explored. Integration and Next Steps - Public Works Director Greg and others emphasized that the Utilities Master Plan is part of the larger "Clearly Belgrade" master planning effort, sharing population data with the transportation, land use, and parks plans. - The final step will be loading the plan into "Conveyo," a GIS-based platform for real-time updates and public access, rather than leaving it as a static document. - The plan is considered essential for state and federal grant applications and for creating a functional capital improvement plan. - The mayor indicated AE2S will update the final draft with answers to council questions and bring it back in a few weeks for possible adoption. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments during the three public forum calls. Key Outcomes - Councilmember Bell was excused unanimously. - No formal action was taken on the Utilities Master Plan; it will return for potential adoption after revisions. - The council requested clarifications on financial assumptions and well pump test data before adoption. - During "good of the order," a councilmember who has lived in Belgrade for 36 years expressed amazement at the pace of growth and thanked staff; another councilmember praised the 488-page report as readable and informative.

The Belgrade City Council met on October 6, 2026, to consider a conditional use permit (CUP) for a commercial kennel at 1206 Rizzo Lane, along with routine consent items and departmental reports. After a public hearing with both opposition and support, the council approved the permit with a condition for an eight-foot fence. Consent Calendar - SCADA Upgrade Contract: Approved unanimously by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Forum (non‑agenda): Vivian Krause (904 Burton Court) thanked the city or residents for clearing weeds on 13th Street. - CUP Public Comments: - Sadie Woller (1302 Grover Lane) spoke against the kennel, citing noise that can travel 400 feet to half a mile, proximity to a residential area (170 feet from her home), property value loss, and stress on neighborhood dogs. - Donna Hefner (1306 Rizzo Lane) expressed disappointment at not receiving notification, and argued the kennel would generate excessive noise, odor, and lower home values. - Carmel Michael (1306 Grover Lane) also cited lack of notification and added concerns about noise from aircraft (especially fighter jets) affecting kennel dogs. - Drew Fowler (1306 Fozzie Lane) outlined several zoning criteria (Section 10.6.12) that he argued were not satisfied; provided a rough estimate of $500,000 to $2 million in neighborhood devaluation; and noted that single‑dog barking is enforced by police but a kennel with up to 40 dogs may not be controllable. - Taylor Adams (1308 Rizzo Lane) works from home with a 10‑month‑old and said daytime barking would disrupt naps and outdoor activities. - Caitlin Fowler (1305 Fozzie Lane) raised concerns about children’s sleep and increased traffic on Rizzo Lane, noting two pedestrian fatalities in Belgrade this year. - Vivian Krause (904 Burton Court) spoke in support, noting existing noise from trains/aircraft and that a controlled facility could benefit dogs with separation anxiety. - Coco Duma (1206 Butler Creek) expressed general support for business but wanted more details on true capacity, overnight supervision, light pollution, and traffic impacts. - Mike Lafferty (1503 Gunslinger Lane) questioned the need for taller fencing (indicating noise is expected), asked about enforcement of noise ordinances, and worried about street parking and traffic. - Blue Chapman (1104 Butler Creek) supported the kennel, saying the location (edge of town, airport zone, near dog park) is ideal and that any business would bring traffic. Discussion Items - Conditional Use Permit – Commercial Kennel at 1206 Rizzo Lane: - Staff Report: Planner Emily Martinez presented the application. The property is in the Flex Employment District; 25 public comments were received. Staff noted the zoning ordinance lists commercial kennels as a conditional use and recommended approval subject to conditions. Planning Commission had voted 2‑1 to approve with a six‑foot fence. Differences among code sections for fence heights were discussed; staff suggested an eight‑foot fence and a five‑foot setback (instead of the required three feet) for landscaping. - Applicant Presentation: Nathan Harman (CNIC Design Studio) described the facility as a dog daycare/boarding facility, not a shelter. Dogs would be indoors most of the time; the building includes sound‑reduction measures; outdoor time is limited to three short supervised periods. Odor is managed by ventilation and waste removal. Sound meters and cameras will be installed; neighbors may request the owner’s cell phone number. The applicant offered to return after one year to demonstrate compliance. - Contractor Gary Jansen proposed a fence design: three feet of concrete, five feet of fence, plus a landscape buffer, to achieve an effective eight‑foot sound barrier and safety feature. - Council Questions: Clarified staff‑to‑dog ratio (up to 5 animals per staff), no overnight staff on site (alarm/camera monitoring), separate gym tenant, and services offered (daycare, grooming, medic bay). - City Manager Cardwell explained that state law governs notification and that no city staff opinion on approval/denial was offered. He also noted the upcoming Dry Creek/Cruiser/Jackrabbit intersection project (signalized intersection and roundabout within 18–24 months). - Council Deliberation: Motion by Councilmember Simon (seconded by Menicucci) to approve the CUP on condition of an eight‑foot fence per the submitted photo/plan. Councilmember Simon argued the zoning allows it and that poor performance by the operator would eventually close the business. Councilmember Menicucci thanked the public for attending. Mayor Meese acknowledged concerns about noise from fighter jets and the difficulty of addressing that. Councilmembers expressed appreciation for public input and noted they balance zoning code with community concerns. Key Outcomes - Conditional Use Permit Approved: The motion carried 4‑2 (Councilmembers McGee and Guffy dissenting). The condition of an eight‑foot fence (as shown in the photo) was included. - Upcoming Events: Mayor Meese announced the Montana League of Cities and Towns annual conference in Helena (Oct. 7‑9). - Parks & Recreation Report: Deputy Mayor Matimo reported the Mayfair Meadows bike park grand opening (Phase 1 completed; a jump track to follow), winterization of parks restrooms, new tree species at Lewis and Clark Park, and the last farmers market. - Water Rights Litigation: City Manager Cardwell noted that Belgrade and Helena are witnesses in a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of exempt wells; the city has spent nearly $500,000 to change its water right on the north side and now witnesses the impact of exempt wells on senior water rights. - Meeting Adjourned: Motion to adjourn passed by voice vote.

The Belgrade City Council met on September 15, 2026, in regular session. The meeting included public comments on water/sewer rates, a presentation of an EMS service award, adoption of a state-mandated parking ordinance, appointments to the Impact Fee Board, updates to council rules of procedure, and authorization to purchase property for a future intersection improvement. All votes were unanimous (5-0) with Councilmember Matthew McGee absent and excused. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda, including minutes from previous workshop and council meetings, by a vote of 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Lois Christensen (310 13th Street) expressed concern that her flat $45 monthly sewer bill is unfair compared to her $26 water bill, given her low fixed income and small lot size. She argued the flat fee does not account for usage and is especially burdensome for low-income residents. - Bill Beckman (910 Montana Street) also complained about high water and wastewater bills, stating that even with no water usage, his bill would be $79.89. He noted his wastewater portion is nearly double the water portion and that his water bill exceeds his gas and electric bill. He pointed out a possible billing error: a $2 state fee appears monthly but should be annual (approximately $0.17 per month). He requested a reduction in charges for low-volume users. - Raimi Malding (714 Owl Drive) presented a replica of the EMS Service of the Year Award from Central Valley Fire District (CVFD) to the city, recognizing the trust citizens placed in CVFD in 2020 and the district's elite service. Fire Chief Jay Whitwer echoed the thanks and appreciation for city and county support. Public Hearings - Ordinance 2026-7 (Second Reading): A zoning text amendment to reduce parking requirements for residential dwelling units to comply with state mandate (HB 492, 2025 Legislative Session). The ordinance requires 0.5 parking spaces per unit under 1,200 square feet and 1 space per unit over 1,200 square feet. The Planning Commission recommended approval on August 31, and the Council approved first reading on September 1. After no public comment, the Council voted 5-0 to approve on final reading. Discussion Items - Mayor's Recommendation to the Impact Fee Board: Mayor recommended Councilmembers Christine Minacucci and Aaron Bell to serve on the Impact Fee Board. After no public comment, the Council voted 5-0 to adopt the recommendation. - Adoption of Rules of Procedure (Rev C): City Manager Neil Cardwell presented updated rules of procedure for the City Council and all city boards/commissions, incorporating changes from state law (MALOPA) and minor language updates, including meeting times and locations. Changes were outlined in the packet. After no public comment, the Council voted 5-0 to adopt the updated rules. - Authorizing Purchase of 314 South Broadway: City Manager Cardwell requested authorization to negotiate and purchase the property at 314 South Broadway for $675,000 (asking price) and to establish a project budget of $775,000 (including $100,000 to raze the house and prepare the site). The property is needed to realign the intersection of Broadway, Madison, and Colorado (known as "malfunction junction") for a future roundabout or signal. The city previously owned the property but sold it in 2020; the right-of-way carved out then was insufficient. Funding will come from the Urban Renewal District (URD) fund balance (over $2 million). Councilmember Jason Guffey expressed concern about the cost and using URD funds for land acquisition rather than street improvements, but acknowledged the necessity. Cardwell noted that acquiring the property now avoids a more expensive eminent domain process. The Council voted 5-0 to authorize the purchase and project budget. Reports - Mayor's Report: Announced the upcoming Fall Festival (parade at 10 AM on Saturday), seeking volunteers. The mayor will attend the Montana Association of Counties (MACO) conference and the Montana League of Cities conference. - City Manager's Report: - Mayfair Meadows Bike Park: Construction is ahead of schedule; pump tracks may be complete within two weeks. Staff is considering winter closure due to incomplete improvements. - Well 1 Failure: The 1948 well collapsed after 70+ years of service. The pump and well house will be replaced within the existing water project budget; the well is expected back online by May 1, 2027, with capacity around 750 gallons per minute. - Public Works/Fleet Maintenance Shop: An RFPQ for design-build services was released on September 13; responses due in 30+ days. - Library Staff Changes: Library Director Alina is leaving; Jordan Green will serve as interim Community Services Director, overseeing the library. An interim library manager will be appointed internally. - Response to Public Comments on Rates: Cardwell explained that water rates are below the national average and that wastewater rates are higher because the system is a mechanical treatment plant which is costlier to operate. He noted the $2 state fee should appear only annually and urged the resident to contact staff if it appears again. - Councilmember Reports: - Councilmember Simon inquired about the location of the joint meeting with Bozeman on September 22; City Manager confirmed it will be at Bozeman City Hall (off Rouse and Lammy) and the agenda will be posted soon. - Councilmembers Menicucci and Bell accepted appointments to the Impact Fee Board. - Deputy Mayor Mademo encouraged attendance at the Fall Festival parade. Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved consent agenda (5-0). - Approved Ordinance 2026-7 on final reading (5-0). - Adopted mayor's appointments to Impact Fee Board (5-0). - Adopted updated Rules of Procedure Rev C (5-0). - Authorized city manager to negotiate and purchase 314 South Broadway and established a $775,000 project budget (5-0). - Councilmember McGee was excused from the meeting (5-0).

The Belgrade City Council held a workshop on September 9, 2026, to discuss the draft 2026 Transportation Master Plan (TMP). The meeting included a presentation by consultant Dan Collie of Farron Pierce, followed by extensive council questions and discussion. No public comments were offered. The plan is expected to return for final adoption in October 2026. Discussion Items - Presentation of the 2026 Transportation Master Plan: - Greg Trent, Assistant City Manager, introduced the plan, noting it has been three years in development, with coordination among city master plans (parks, land use, utilities) and population estimates provided by the state. The plan has been reviewed by city directors and MDT. - Dan Collie presented key aspects: the plan builds on the 2018 Long-Range Transportation Plan, covers all modes (auto, pedestrian, bicycle, transit), and aligns with new regional partners (Gallatin Valley MPO, Urban Transportation District). Community engagement included a February 2024 open house, virtual meetings, and a survey with a high response rate. - The plan establishes a vision, 10 goals, and a prioritized project list across four categories: roadway projects, intersection projects, bike/pedestrian projects, and priority crossing improvements. Projects are ranked high, medium, or low tiers as a guide, not a fixed schedule. Annual monitoring and updates are recommended. - Immediate next steps: adoption, incorporation into other planning processes, advancing high-priority projects (e.g., JackRabbit at BNSF rail crossing), and continued engagement with MDT and MPO. - Council Questions and Comments: - Council members raised several topics: - Surprise at strong community interest in cycling infrastructure, especially across I-90 and to Bozeman. - Concern about parking regulations for multifamily developments increasing on-street congestion; Collie suggested parking maximums and alternative modes as incremental solutions. - Discussion of motorized bicycles and e-bikes: legal status on sidewalks vs. roads; a council member noted the need for regulation and enforcement capability, with staff to bring policy ideas. The city manager observed that many neighborhoods lack sidewalks, making bike/pedestrian infrastructure a funding challenge. - Connectivity to the new pump bike track was highlighted, along with a suggestion to acquire road-painting equipment for bike lane striping (discussions with Bozeman and county stalled due to budget caution). - Safety concerns about children on e-scooters and e-bikes; a council member suggested education campaigns and potential youth certification, similar to hunter safety. - Need for better sidewalk connectivity for pedestrians; a council member emphasized walking to schools and stores, noting that cycling is seasonal. - Traffic calming: Collie noted that vertical measures (speed humps) conflict with snow removal; council members advocated for designating parking/snow storage in street standards (60-foot width) without widening, and for avoiding problematic designs like narrow medians or mini-roundabouts seen in some developments. - Lighting standards: Collie acknowledged the trade-offs between safety and resident preferences; not included in the plan but important for safety. - Intersection blocking by parked vehicles in denser housing areas, and the need for creative solutions. - The Weaver Road corridor was specifically noted as a proactive planning need for future four-laning, despite likely being years away. - Council member expressed support for calling out a potential northwest interchange near Weaver, noting positive public feedback, but also recognizing that growth would follow such infrastructure. - Update on the Cruiser project (JackRabbit to Dry Creek): still in right-of-way acquisition; MDT has re-approved plans after several reviews; the traffic signal portion may go to bid this year, with the roundabout later. - I-90 corridor study: expected early 2028, per MPO board update from Mayor. Key Outcomes - No formal actions were taken; this was a workshop for discussion and feedback. - Staff will incorporate council feedback (e.g., snow storage designation in street diagrams, traffic calming guidance, avoidance of problematic designs) into the final plan. - The plan is scheduled to return to the council in October 2026 for a final adoption vote. - Staff will prepare policy ideas regarding e-bike regulations and enforcement for future discussion. - Continued coordination with MDT, MPO, and Gallatin County on corridor studies and equipment sharing.

The Belgrade City Council met on September 1, 2026, to address several key items including a state-mandated change to residential parking requirements, restructuring of forestry and street maintenance fees, adoption of the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, and related resolutions. The meeting opened with a proclamation for Suicide Prevention Month and included public hearings and council votes on all major agenda items. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda (routine approvals) unanimously without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Street maintenance fee restructuring: Karen Anderson (600 Black Diamond Street) expressed concern that the proposed increase was unnecessary, citing budget documents showing a $451,000 surplus. City staff clarified that the apparent surplus was due to accounting transfers and that the street fund actually requires general fund support. Another resident, Roy Krause, asked about the current single-family fee ($205) and the proposed increase (approximately 15%). - Public forum: No public comments were made. No public testimony was offered on the parking ordinance, forestry fee, budget, or medical levy items beyond the street fee comment. Discussion Items - State-mandated parking requirement (Ordinance 2026-07 first reading): City staff introduced the ordinance to comply with Montana House Bill 492, which sets minimum off-street parking for residential units: 0.5 spaces per unit for dwellings ≤1,200 sq ft (rounded up to one), and one space per unit for larger dwellings. The council noted the lack of alternative transportation in Belgrade and expressed frustration over the state mandate but recognized the city has no discretion. The planning commission had recommended approval. The council approved the first reading unanimously. - Forestry assessment restructuring (Resolution 2026-17): The council considered changing from a flat fee per parcel to a fee based on acreage, following earlier discrepancies in property lists. The proposed structure sets a cap for properties over one acre ($70.25, up from $70) and aims to collect $200,000 in revenue. Approximately 70% of properties would see fees at or below the previous year, and 90% (smaller lots) would see a modest increase. After a public hearing with no comments, the council approved the resolution (roll call: all ayes). - Street maintenance fee restructuring (Resolution 2026-18?): The council adopted a new assessment method changing from a flat fee per parcel to a fee by land use, intended to spread costs more equitably. The current flat fee of $205 per single-family unit would increase by about 15% for many parcels. City Manager Neil Cardwell noted that without the change, the flat fee would have needed to rise to nearly $300 to meet revenue needs, due to inflation and to reduce general fund subsidies. The council approved the resolution (roll call: all ayes). - Fiscal Year 2027 final budget (Resolution 2026-19): Finance Director Charity presented a detailed budget overview. Key changes from the preliminary budget included adjustments for software, police overtime, a public works director search, and court clerk reclassification. Total salary and benefits budget is approximately $14 million for 113.33 FTEs, a net increase of 1.5 FTE (chief civil attorney and part-time clerk upgrade). Property values rose 26% but newly taxable value was down 11%, with concerns about state valuation accuracy. The general fund is projected to have an unrestricted fund balance of 12% of expenses (above the 10% goal). The budget includes $700,000 transfer to the CIP for the Justice Center, a new public works facility design, and other capital investments. The street fund will operate at a zero fund balance with a $54,000 general fund transfer. The council adopted the budget (roll call: all ayes). - Permissive medical levy (Resolution 2026-20): The levy, which offsets health insurance costs, is decreasing slightly due to fewer filled positions as of July 1, 2026. The council approved the resolution (roll call: all ayes). - Property tax levy resolution (Resolution 2026-21): Total mill levy decreased from 224.something to 212.23, resulting in a slight tax reduction if property values remain constant. The council approved the resolution (roll call: all ayes). Key Outcomes - Proclaimed September 1–30, 2026, as Suicide Prevention Month in Belgrade, with an address from Tracy Rexley of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. - Approved Ordinance 2026-07 (first reading) amending parking requirements to conform with state law. - Adopted Resolution 2026-17 restructuring the forestry assessment fee to an acreage-based fee.n- Adopted Resolution restructuring the street maintenance fee to a land-use-based fee.n- Adopted the Fiscal Year 2027 final budget (Resolution 2026-19).n- Adopted Resolution 2026-20 for the permissive medical levy.n- Adopted Resolution 2026-21 for the mill levy and additional property tax revenue. - City Manager Neil Cardwell reported on Justice Center construction: work began this week, with unexpected roof issues (multiple layers causing leaks) requiring a patch; project remains on track for year-end completion. - Councilmember Guthey reported on alley beautification program: nearly complete for this summer, with plans for ongoing rotation every five–six years. - Councilmember Bell reported on the Senior Center's 20th anniversary celebration of the park and ongoing Bike Pump Track construction at Mayfair Meadow Park.

The Belgrade City Council met on September 1, 2026, to consider several resolutions including changes to the forestry and street maintenance assessment methods, adoption of the fiscal year 2027 final budget, and establishment of the permissive medical levy and mill levy. All resolutions were approved unanimously. Public comments were heard on the street maintenance fee and budget. Public Comments & Testimony - Karen Anderson (600 Black Diamond Street) opposed Resolution 2026-18 (street maintenance assessment change), questioning the need for an increase after a reported surplus in the street maintenance fund. She noted an additional $31.74 on her tax bill. Assistant City Manager Greg Trine and Charity clarified that transfers between funds create the appearance of a surplus but that the fund actually receives general fund support and typically zeros out. Anderson asked the council not to approve the resolution. - Roy Krause (Burt Court) asked about the current single-family street fee ($205) and noted a 15% increase to approximately $236. Councilmember Menicucci confirmed the fee would have been significantly higher (near $300) if left as a flat rate. - A council member (unidentified) encouraged the public to check how their parcels are classified, noting that a downtown business with three parcels would pay about $4,000, which could be more than larger commercial entities. Discussion Items Resolution 2026-17: Change of Method of Assessment for Forestry Assessment - Assistant City Manager Greg Trine presented the change from a flat fee per property to a fee by acreage range. No public comments. The council voted unanimously to adopt the resolution. Resolution 2026-18: Change of Method of Assessment for Street Maintenance Assessment - Greg Trine and Deputy Mayor Cardwell explained that the current flat fee of $205 per parcel does not account for trip generation. The proposed change uses standardized engineering data (ITE) to set fees based on land use, moving toward actual maintenance costs. The new fees are lower than those in larger communities. The fee increase for single-family parcels is about 15% ($236.74), partly due to inflation (estimated 7% over two years). The goal is to reduce general fund subsidy. Councilmember Menicucci noted that without this change, the flat fee would have been nearly $300. The resolution was adopted unanimously. Resolution 2026-19: Approval of Fiscal Year 2027 Final Budget - Charity (finance) presented the final budget. Key changes from the preliminary budget included: software/hardware additions, forestry transfer adjustment, water utility audit ($15,000), police overtime reduction ($45,000) and reallocation to SWAT equipment, public works director search, and court clerk reclassifications. Total salary and benefits: $14 million (113.33 FTEs). Pay increases: 4% for unrepresented staff; represented staff increases per union contracts (Teamsters 3%, BPOA 4-11% annually). Total salary/benefits cost increase: $1.183 million. - Property values increased 26% overall; newly taxable value decreased 11%, raising concerns about Department of Revenue capturing all new value. General levy: 78.64 mills; planning levy: 2.45 mills; total mills: 212.23 (down from previous year). General fund revenue expected to increase 13%; expenses up 3% (excluding technology transfer). Unrestricted fund balance estimated at 12% of expenses (above 10% goal). Transfers out include $700,000 to CIP for Justice Center, $559,000 to library, $111,000 to planning, $50,000 to seniors, $54,000 to streets. Forestry fund targets $200,000. Library fund reduced FTEs by 0.4. Planning fees recovering. Senior center food costs rising. Urban renewal district fund includes a $10 million bond issue for downtown redevelopment. Street maintenance fund: new fee expected to bring $1.6 million (up from $1 million). General fund contributes $54,000 plus $188,000 from fuel tax. Building inspections budget down 24% due to eliminated inspector position. Water rates increased 4% (July); wastewater rates increased 10% (annual through 2028). Capital Improvement Fund includes additional support for Justice Center relocation and design of a new public works facility. A $25 million bond placeholder for wastewater debt is included. The budget was adopted unanimously after no public comment. Resolution 2026-20: Permissive Medical Levy for FY2027 - Charity explained the levy offsets health insurance costs based on a 2011 base year. This year the levy decreased slightly due to fewer filled positions on July 1. No public comment. Unanimously approved. Resolution 2026-21: Establish Mill Levy and Budget Additional Property Tax Revenue for FY2027 - Total mills set at 212.23, a decrease from the prior year (244.something). Overall property tax revenue increase of about $49,000. Deputy Mayor Cardwell noted that if a property's value remains the same, city property taxes for the general fund would decrease. No public comment. Unanimously approved. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2026-17 (Forestry assessment change) – Adopted unanimously. Changes from flat fee to fee by acreage range. - Resolution 2026-18 (Street maintenance assessment change) – Adopted unanimously. Changes from flat $205 fee to fee based on land use/trip generation. - Resolution 2026-19 (FY2027 final budget) – Adopted unanimously. Budget totals $14 million in salaries/benefits, 113.33 FTEs, total mills 212.23, general fund expenses up 3%. - Resolution 2026-20 (Permissive medical levy) – Adopted unanimously. Levy decreased slightly. - Resolution 2026-21 (Mill levy and additional property tax revenue) – Adopted unanimously. Mills set at 212.23, resulting in a tax reduction for properties with unchanged valuations. - City Manager Neil Cardwell reported that construction on the Belgrade Justice Center began Monday (August 31), with additional funding approved to address asbestos and roof issues. The project is on track for completion by end of year. Alley beautification is nearly complete for the summer, with plans to continue next year. - Councilmember Bell reported on the senior center's 20th anniversary park celebration and noted construction starting at Mayfair Meadow Park for a bike pump track.

The Belgrade City Council met on Monday, August 17, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting covered continuation of the forestry assessment discussion, appointments to city boards, and various departmental reports. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda, including routine approvals and actions, unanimously without discussion. Discussion Items - Forestry Assessment Method of Assessment: Parks Director Jordan Green presented a proposal to amend the forestry assessment using a graduated scale based on lot size with a cap of approximately $70 per year for certain lots. However, staff discovered discrepancies in parcel data during analysis, and the item was continued to the next meeting on September 1, 2026, at 6:00 PM (Tuesday) to allow for data verification. The public hearing was opened and closed with no public comment, and the council voted unanimously to continue the hearing. - Appointments to Various Boards: The Mayor recommended filling the Urban Transportation Board (UTB) vacancy with the City Manager or his appointee, noting the board's heavy time commitment. For the Impact Fee Advisory Board, the Mayor recommended Spencer Draper and Annie Hamilton; two seats will remain open. The council unanimously adopted these recommendations. Reports - City Manager: Announced that construction of the Mayfair Meadows pump track will begin August 31, 2026. The Parks Department will host a 20th anniversary celebration for the splash pad on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM with free ice cream. A TikTok video about the splash pad generated community interest in a potential pool. The City Manager corrected an earlier statement about the Belgrade Lounge parking lot, clarifying that it will have approximately 200 parking spots. A water leak detection survey on state streets was successful, finding no large leaks; the utility is working to reduce unaccounted water usage below the industry standard of 30%. - Council Member McGee: Stepped down from the UTB board, citing personal time constraints. He highlighted two recent UTB accomplishments: the Streamline bus (pink line) will begin serving the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport in fall 2026, with a route through Belgrade and a stop at the Main Street bus depot; and a bus shelter was relocated from behind TNC to the Belgrade Public Library. - Council Member Guffy, Simon, Menicucci, Bell, Deputy Mayor Minimo: Had no additional reports. Key Outcomes - The forestry assessment public hearing was continued to the September 1, 2026 council meeting (Tuesday at 6:00 PM). - Appointments were approved unanimously: UTB seat to be filled by City Manager or his delegate; Impact Fee Advisory Board seats filled by Spencer Draper and Annie Hamilton. - The council meeting time will permanently move to Tuesdays starting September 1, 2026, at 6:00 PM (previously Mondays at 7:00 PM). - The meeting adjourned following a unanimous vote.

The Belgrade City Council held a workshop on August 10, 2026, to discuss proposed amendments to the city's parking ordinance and to consider a continuance of an impact fee study update. The meeting began with the pledge of allegiance, roll call (Councilmember Aaron Bell was absent and excused), and then moved into discussion items. Consent Calendar - Excuse Councilmember Aaron Bell – Moved by Deputy Mayor Mademoisare, seconded by Council Member McGee, and passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Ken Smith (retired, 717 Oakwood Drive, Belgrade) asked the council to consider allowing more time for loading and unloading campers, suggesting a half-day allowance instead of requiring active loading only. He expressed support for a more flexible interpretation of the ordinance to accommodate practical needs like cooling refrigerators before trips. Discussion Items - Proposed Parking Ordinance Amendments – Police Chief Dustin Lenton presented several changes: (1) reducing notice for downtown special event parking from three days to 12 hours, with a life safety exception for immediate towing; (2) requiring all vehicles on roadways to be licensed, operable, and have a visible VIN, to address enforcement challenges with unlicensed trailers or inoperable vehicles that are moved to avoid abandonment rules; (3) clarifying enforcement around fire hydrants on private streets, including the ability to ticket or tow without additional signage. Council members asked about overnight parking, two-hour parking limits, and the potential expansion of downtown parking. The council generally supported the intent of the amendments and directed staff to draft formal ordinance language for future consideration. No formal vote was taken on the amendments. - Impact Fee Study Update – City Manager Cardwell requested that this item be continued to the next workshop because the Assistant City Manager, who was to present the update, was unavailable. Council discussed and voted on the continuance. Key Outcomes - Councilmember Bell excused – unanimous approval. - Impact fee study update continued – Motion by Council Member McGee, second by Council Member Guffey, passed (all in favor). The item will appear on the next workshop agenda. - Parking ordinance amendments – Staff will draft formal ordinance language based on the workshop discussion. The council expects further deliberation and a public hearing at a future regular meeting. No formal action was taken at this workshop.