Public Meetings - Belgrade, Montana

The Belgrade City Council met on December 1, 2025, for its regular meeting. The council addressed a consent agenda, several discussion items including a zoning text amendment for a new master plan community district, approval of a conditional use permit for a casino, appointments to fill a council vacancy and boards, and adoption of the 2026 meeting calendar. Mayor Russell Nelson presided over his final business meeting, with Deputy Mayor Michael Meese handling the ward one appointment at the mayor's direction. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda unanimously, which included: (1) authorization for the city manager to negotiate with BNSF to participate in the cost of demolishing the former Belgrade Lounge, and (2) approval of the 2026 payroll holiday calendar. Discussion Items - MSU Local Government Center Presentation and Contribution Request: Dan Clark presented on the center's work and requested financial support to restructure operations. Councilmember Neil Cardwell endorsed the center's value. The council unanimously approved a $5,000 contribution as budgeted. - Appointment to Ward 1 Council Seat: Deputy Mayor Meese recommended Matt McGee to fill the vacancy created by Mayor-elect Meese's upcoming departure. McGee introduced himself, citing his background and desire to serve. The council unanimously appointed McGee. - Conditional Use Permit for Town Pump Casino: Brad Stein (senior planner) presented the request for a casino at 6505 Jackrabbit Lane (former Flying J). The planning board had recommended approval 3-1, with the dissenting vote citing too many casinos. Kevin May (applicant engineer) confirmed the facility would have 20 gaming machines and no restaurant beyond a deli. No public comment was heard. The council approved the permit 5-1. - Final Plat Approval for West Post Phase Three: Planner Emily Martinez presented the final plat for four lots along the eastern side of the development. Matt Exton (Morrison Maierle) represented the applicant. No public comment. Approved unanimously. - First Reading of Ordinance 2025-12 – Zoning Text Amendment for Master Planning Community (MP) District: Brad Stein and the applicant team (Todd Waller, Venture West Development; Chris Fernandez, land planner) presented a comprehensive proposal to create a new zoning district allowing smaller lots, reduced parking, and diverse housing types. The district is designed to address the "missing middle" housing gap, with lot sizes as small as 1,500 square feet for detached units and 1,000 square feet for attached units. The city manager noted the district would be an option for future development, not solely for the applicant's project. Councilmembers discussed setbacks, parking requirements (including state preemption), alley design, and snow removal. The applicant agreed to amend the use table to make religious assembly a permitted use rather than conditional. No public comment. The council unanimously approved the first reading and set a public hearing for January 5, 2026. - Design-Build Agreement for Belgrade Justice Center: City Manager Cardwell reported that Hazelden Hennabery Eddy (HHE) was selected from seven responses to provide design-build services for the renovation of the former HEC elementary school. The council authorized the city manager, with city attorney approval, to finalize the contract within the budgeted $1.5 million. No public comment. Approved unanimously. - 2026 Board and Committee Appointments: The council discussed and approved appointments for 2026, with changes including Councilmember Matimo as deputy mayor, Councilmember Simon to the interim planning commission and city-county planning board, and Matt McGee to the PCC planning coordinating committee. Approved unanimously. - Mayor's Appointments to Board of Adjustment: Two candidates, Karen Reichert and Tegan Guffey, were appointed unanimously. - 2026 Meeting Calendar: The council adopted Option Two, which maintains the current schedule of moving the meeting date when it conflicts with the NCAA Final Four basketball tournament. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Appointments: Matt McGee appointed to Ward 1 council seat (effective January 1, 2026); Karen Reichert and Tegan Guffey appointed to the Board of Adjustment; annual board and committee assignments adopted. - Ordinance 2025-12: First reading approved; public hearing set for January 5, 2026. - Conditional Use Permit: Town Pump casino approved (5-1). - Contract Authorization: City manager authorized to finalize design-build agreement with HHE for the Justice Center. - Calendar: 2026 meeting schedule adopted with final four adjustment retained. Reports and Announcements - City Manager Cardwell introduced two new employees: Whitney Burms (Communications Manager) and Jordan Green (Director of Parks, Trails, and Recreation). - Mayor Nelson delivered farewell remarks, thanking council and staff for their collaboration and dedication to the city. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:30 PM.

Belgrade City Council Meeting - November 17, 2025\n\nThe Belgrade City Council met on November 17, 2025, with Mayor Russell Nelson presiding. Councilmembers Jason Guffey, Michael Meese, Christine Manicucci, and Aaron Bell were present; Jim Simon and Renee Manimo were absent and excused. The meeting included a public forum, consent agenda approvals, public hearings on two annexations, and several bond-related resolutions. All votes were unanimous.\n\n Public Forum\n- Belgrade Fire Chief Jay Whitwer (1303 Powers Boulevard) introduced the Central Valley Fire District’s accreditation process. He stated that the district is pursuing national accreditation through the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE). Chief Whitwer reported that a community-driven strategic plan has been completed and that the current phase involves a Community Risk Assessment Standards of Cover (CRESOC) analysis to match resource deployment to community risk. He noted that only about 340 fire departments worldwide are accredited, and the only one in Montana is Bozeman.\n- Rich Merrill, CPSE facilitator, explained that the accreditation process includes 254 performance indicators spanning governance, finance, human resources, and operations. He encouraged the council to keep the process on the front of their minds.\n\n Consent Calendar\n- The council unanimously approved the consent agenda as submitted (motion by Councilmember Meese, seconded by Councilmember Manicucci). The agenda included two separate items and minutes, though specific details were not read.\n\n Public Hearings\n Annexation of Ridgeview Elementary School (River Rock) – Resolution 2025-36\n- Senior Planner Stein presented the final annexation of property at 17 Green Bell Drive (Ridgeview School in the River Rock subdivision). The property has already been zoned to Educational Institutional District and is connected to River Rock Water and Sewer. Councilmember Guffey asked about a fail-safe if water/sewer service fails; the city manager stated the city would offer support. There was no public comment. The council unanimously adopted Resolution 2025-36 approving the annexation and annexation agreement.\n\n Annexation of Belgrade School District Bus Barn – Resolution 2025-37\n- Senior Planner Stein presented the annexation of 17063 Frontiers Road (the bus barn property), previously zoned to industrial. Councilmember Guffey asked about the advantage for the tax-exempt school district; City Manager Cardwell explained that annexation makes the Belgrade Police Department the primary responder for public safety purposes, resolving jurisdictional questions. There was no public comment. The council unanimously adopted Resolution 2025-37.\n\n Discussion Items\n Resolution 2025-39 – Sewer System Revenue Bonds (Lagoon Rehabilitation)\n- Finance Director Charity presented a $1,460,440 loan from the DNRC Water Pollution Control State Revolving Loan Program. The bond consists of a $566,440 subordinate lien taxable Series 2025 A bond and an $894,000 Series 2025 B bond. The total project budget is $5.4 million, with 67% grant-funded, 27% loan, and 6% cash. There was no public comment. The council unanimously adopted the resolution.\n\n Resolution 2025-40 – Amending and Restating Prior Water Revenue Bond Resolutions\n- The finance director explained that as Belgrade has grown, it is no longer eligible for most DNRC bond programs and must use private market bonds. This resolution restates previous covenants (Resolutions 2009-18, 2010-3, 2014-5, and 2024-32) to allow additional debt secured by water system revenues. No public comment. The council approved via a roll-call vote (all ayes).\n\n Resolution 2025-41 – $20 Million Water System Revenue Bonds (Series 2025)\n- The finance director reported that the bond pricing closed at $20 million, with a premium of $977,000, resulting in total proceeds of $20,977,000. After delivery costs of $540,000 and $5.2 million already spent, remaining project funds are $15,172,000 (with an additional $200,000 in costs expected). City Manager Cardwell explained that premiums occur when multiple firms compete to purchase bonds, reducing rates to incentivize the city. No public comment. The council unanimously adopted the resolution via roll-call vote.\n\n City Manager Reports\n- City Manager Cardwell noted that the water storage project is advancing; HDR should submit a preliminary engineering report by the end of November. Well 8 is online, and Well 9 is expected to produce 800–900 gallons per minute. On the wastewater side, rates have been set to fund future projects.\n- Cardwell requested two or three council volunteers to form a working committee to help develop a five-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Councilmembers Meese, Menicucci, and Bell volunteered. A mid-December meeting will be scheduled with staff.\n- In personal remarks, Cardwell shared that his daughter received her driver’s license and thanked the community for its supportive programs.\n\n FYI and Adjournment\n- Councilmembers reported upcoming events: the Senior Center’s Thanksgiving dinner (Friday), downtown holiday light park decorating (Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m.), and a volunteer sign-up at BelgradeMT.org.\n- Mayor Nelson noted he and Deputy Mayor Meese would be unavailable for a future county board of health meeting.\n- The meeting adjourned by unanimous consent.

The Belgrade City Council held a workshop on November 10, 2025, beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call. The meeting featured presentations on a future Belgrade Justice Center and library operations and funding. Council members discussed budget challenges, heard public comments, and took no formal action. Procedural Motion - Councilmember Manicucci moved to excuse Councilmember Mike Meese, seconded by Councilmember Manimo. Although Meese arrived during the discussion, the motion passed unanimously, and his presence was noted for the record. MSU Community Design Center Presentation - Eric Watson, professor at MSU's Community Design Center, introduced the collaboration and student projects. Students Henry and Denali presented the first design option, focusing on improving daylighting, creating a civic presence, and buffering security. Features included a new entrance, a translucent polycarbonate courtroom facade, a corten steel-clad gym, a sally port, a community garden trellis, and a public park on North Broadway. - Ben and Connor presented a second scheme that also closed Broadway to create an 18-foot-wide bike and walk path, added a sally port, covered police parking, and used rammed earth and corten steel cladding. They proposed a transparent public circulation element and a multi-purpose room in the former gym. - Council members asked about bathrooms, parking, budget estimates, HVAC, and secure entrances. Students noted that existing bathroom infrastructure could be reused, provided 27 parking spots versus an estimated police need of 24–26, and did not prepare a formal budget estimate. Library Operations and Funding Presentation - Library Director Alina presented the library's financial situation and the need for an operations levy. She said a successful levy would free $450,000 from the general fund for public safety and allow expanded hours, staffing, and programs. If the levy fails, the library would reduce hours and risk state aid. - Council members discussed the timing of a potential levy, with some expressing concern about property tax relief and noting recent school levy failures, while others felt the library has strong community support. City Manager Cardwell indicated this was part of a series of budget workshops; future presentations would cover police and public safety, the capital improvement plan, and street maintenance fee calculations. Public Comments & Testimony - David Kang, a retired Belgrade resident and library foundation member, reminded the council that Belgrade Community Library was named the best small library in America in 2015 due to its programming, and urged the community to find funding to restore those programs. - Mark Browning, treasurer of the Belgrade Community Library Foundation, said the foundation has about $400,000 in assets, including an endowment fund of nearly $300,000, and contributed about $225,000 to the library last year. He expressed the foundation's goal to grow the endowment to $1 million. Key Outcomes - No formal actions were taken other than the procedural motion to excuse Councilmember Meese, which passed unanimously. - The council received information on two Justice Center design schemes and the library's funding needs. - Council members requested exploration of creative funding solutions, including a potential library district, though city management cautioned about risks. - Library Director Alina noted that a community room rental fee schedule would be brought to the council in the future. - The next budget workshop will address the police department, and the city will present a capital improvement plan and street maintenance fee calculations.

The November 10, 2025 workshop of the Belgrade City Council featured two major presentations: a showcase of three conceptual designs for a future justice center by MSU Community Design Center students, and a detailed report on the Belgrade Library and Community Center's operational challenges, including staffing shortages and funding constraints. No formal votes were taken; the session served as a discussion and information-gathering exercise ahead of upcoming budget decisions. MSU Community Design Center Presentation on Justice Center - Three student groups presented design schemes for converting the former elementary school into a justice center housing police, courts, and community spaces. Key themes across all designs included improving natural daylighting, creating a civic presence, integrating community amenities (parks, gardens, cafes), and addressing security and parking needs. - First group (Henry, Ali, Lily) – Denali: Proposed closing North Broadway to create a public park and walking trails; added a sally port and covered police parking; used polycarbonate, Cor-Ten steel, and Ponderosa pine materials. The courtroom received a raised roof and diffused light. Community spaces included a rentable flex room and a café that could later become additional court space. - Second group (Ben, Grayson, Lily): Removed the gym but kept a police workout room; added a lobby with skylights, a community multi-purpose room with foldable walls, and covered police parking. Clarity of entrance and wayfinding was emphasized, with public parking on the north side and a drop-off zone. - Third group (Darby, Grayson, Lily): Placed the courtroom in the existing gym; added a community kitchen and food pantry with a direct connection to outdoor gardens. Retained the playground and used a brick and perforated brick facade. Included rain gardens for snow storage and a double-height lobby for natural light. - Council members asked about parking capacity, restroom adequacy (existing bathrooms repurposed), ADA access, budget estimates (not yet developed), and the feasibility of closing Broadway. Students noted that designs aimed to reuse existing walls and utilities to control costs. Library Operations and Funding Challenges Presentation - Alina (Library Director) and Charity presented the library's current status: staffed with 9 employees (down from 10), open 36 hours per week (below Montana State Library standards of 40-60 hours for the population size). Despite this, library visits more than doubled from 2024 to 2025: 13,241 visits in April–October 2025 versus 6,354 in the same period of 2024. Program attendance remained stagnant, however. - The library's annual budget is approximately $1.289 million, with revenues of $624,000 (county contributions, state aid, fines, donations, etc.) and expenses of $830,000 for personnel, supplies, and services, plus $450,000 for facility costs and administrative support. The current funding model is insufficient to meet demand. - To restore services (increase hours to 44-47 per week and add programs), the library requests approval for an operational levy estimated to cost the average taxpayer $26.79 per $100,000 of assessed property value – less than the price of a new hardcover book. Alternatively, the city could reallocate general fund dollars from other departments, but that would strain existing services. - Alina and City Manager Greg outlined three options: pass a library levy, reallocate general fund dollars (likely reducing other city services), or maintain current funding (leading to further service cuts and risk of losing state aid). The library foundation, represented by David Kang and Mark Browning, reported raising about $400,000 in private funds (including a $290,000 endowment) but stressed that private dollars cannot cover ongoing operational costs. - Council members expressed concern about taxpayer fatigue given recent failed school levies and property tax relief legislation. Mayor Nelson noted that the community strongly supported the library bond in 2021, suggesting a levy might have a chance if well communicated. City Manager Greg indicated that future budget workshops will explore capital improvement plans, street maintenance fees, and police department needs. Public Comments - David Kang (Library Foundation): Praised the library's historic program excellence (winning Best Small Library in America in 2015) and noted that program attendance has stagnated due to understaffing. He urged finding a way to fund adequate programming.n- Mark Browning (Library Foundation Treasurer): Described the Foundation's role in raising private funds for programs and capital campaign completion, but noted that private dollars cannot substitute for public operational funding. He confirmed the Foundation is contributing $3,000 to the endowment fund. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions were made. The council and staff will continue budget discussions in upcoming workshops, including a future session on police and public safety needs.n- The MSU design presentations provided a vision for the justice center and will inform the city's upcoming contract with an architect and contractor, who were present.n- The library's funding challenge remains unresolved; the council will consider whether to pursue a levy or explore other options like reallocating funds or forming a library district (noted as risky by the city attorney).n- City Manager Greg emphasized that previous long-term capital and operational planning gaps (e.g., street maintenance, water tower age) require the council to set priorities for the next budget cycle.

The Belgrade City Council met on November 3, 2025, for a regular meeting. The council approved the consent calendar excusing absent members, held a public hearing on Ordinance 2025-11 adopting the International Fire Code, and received reports on a recent police incident, city projects, and administrative updates. All actions were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Motion to excuse Mayor Nelson (absent) and Councilmember Minakucci (absent) passed unanimously after roll call. Public Comments & Testimony - Jay Whitwer, Belgrade citizen and fire chief of Central Valley Fire District, expressed disappointment with the city's decision to adopt its own fire code but offered continued partnership and the expertise of Central Valley's fire prevention bureau. - A second citizen, also a taxpayer, voiced concern about duplicating services already provided by Central Valley Fire District, noting that city residents already pay fire district taxes. Discussion Items - Ordinance 2025-11 – Adoption of International Fire Code: City Manager explained that state law mandates the city be the fire code authority within municipal boundaries, and that contracting out is not permitted. The ordinance updates a fire code from 1983, establishes the city manager as the city fire official (no new positions created), and aligns with state requirements. The council had previously discussed and published notice, and no written public comments were received. - Police Incident Update: Police Chief Lensing reported on a critical incident where an officer was injured in the line of duty. He thanked the council, city staff, and partner agencies (Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, Bozeman Police, Central Valley Fire, Montana DOJ, Highway Patrol) for overwhelming support. The officer is recovering; two officers are on administrative leave due to the investigation, causing a staffing crunch. Bozeman Police provided backup on the night of the incident, and officers are volunteering overtime. - Vehicle-Pedestrian Incident: A young child was struck by a bicycle near the middle school that day; the child will recover. School resource officers and patrol responded. The city will review procedures. - City Manager Reports: - The RFPQ for the Belgrade Justice Center design-build contract received seven responses; four firms interviewed, and a top candidate selected. A contract is expected by year-end. - The grain elevator purchase: BNSF has agreed to release the current owner from lease after demolition of tanks and environmental cleanup. The city will close on the property for the urban renewal district, and development interest has been expressed. - Two new employees started: a customer service representative in finance and a systems administrator in IT. - A flashing beacon on Spooner Road near the middle school was damaged beyond repair and will be replaced with a modern rapid-flash beacon. A standard crosswalk sign will be placed in the interim. - Belgrade High School will host the largest speech and debate tournament in Montana on Dec 5-6, 2025, needing over 300 judges. City staff are encouraged to volunteer during work hours (up to 4 hours paid). Key Outcomes - Ordinance 2025-11 was finally adopted unanimously (moved by Councilmember Simon, seconded by Councilmember Matimo). - The police chief’s update was received; staffing challenges will be managed with overtime and mutual aid. - The city manager will continue work on the Justice Center contract and grain elevator closing. - Councilmember Simon inquired about the water tank project; the city manager stated an update will be provided in December after further analysis. - The meeting adjourned unanimously.

The Belgrade City Council held its regular meeting on October 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM (meeting start referenced in transcript). The meeting included a public forum where a donation was presented, a mayoral proclamation, approval of consent items, discussion and approval of a public participation plan under the Montana Land Use Planning Act (MALUPA), and various reports. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved all items on the consent agenda as submitted. Specific items were not detailed in the transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - Jay Whitwer, Fire Chief of Central Valley Fire District and resident of 1303 Powers Boulevard, Belgrade, spoke on behalf of the Kiwanis Club of Belgrade. He presented a $1,000 check to the mayor for repairs to the splash park water feature that had been vandalized. The Kiwanis Club, focused on youth, overwhelmingly agreed to donate. The mayor accepted the donation with thanks. Proclamation - The council discussed and read a mayoral proclamation declaring November 1, 2025, as Extra Mile Day in Belgrade. This marks the 13th year of participation, joining 512 mayors and city leaders. The proclamation encourages citizens to go the extra mile and acknowledge those who make a difference. Discussion Items - Public Participation Plan for the City of Belgrade Land Use Plan (MALUPA): Senior Planner Brad Stein presented the drafted plan, which outlines the city's strategy for public participation as required by the Montana Land Use Planning Act (MALUPA) and Montana Code Annotated. The plan is a culmination of over two years of work, including dozens of public meetings, surveys, and data analysis. The interim planning commission (composed of three former planning board members) voted 3-0 to recommend approval. City Manager Neil Cardwell clarified that the city is withdrawing from the city-county planning board; the new MALUPA board will have jurisdiction within city limits only. The plan aims to front-load public participation, streamlining future zoning and subdivision approvals. The council discussed planning commission membership (currently three members, with capacity to add two more). The city has until approximately May 2026 to fully adopt the land use plan but aims to complete it by March 2026. Key Outcomes - Public Participation Plan Approved: Councilmember Matamo moved to approve the public participation plan as required by MALUPA (MCA Section 76-2-5106). The motion was seconded by Councilmember Menicucci and passed unanimously (all aye). - Grain Elevator Purchase Progress: City Manager Cardwell reported positive movement on the grain elevator acquisition, with closing expected before the end of the year. Further work with BNSF remains after closing. - Asbestos Abatement at Justice Center: The council authorized the city manager to sign a contract for asbestos abatement at the Belgrade Justice Center, with work starting October 21, 2025, and completion expected by end of year. - Justice Center Contractor Selection: Six to seven responses were received for an RFPQ for the Belgrade Justice Center contractor. Staff will select up to four finalists for interviews in about 1.5 weeks. Target move-in date for the building is November 1, 2026. - Communications Manager Hired: Whitney Burms will start as Communications Manager on November 10, 2025, joining from the county. - Quaw Building: The city has paused in-house work at Quaw and agreed to allow schools to use it for one final haunted house event ("Quaw's Final Haunt"). - Retirement Party: A retirement party for Jason Carp will be held on October 30, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the same building. Trick-or-Treat for Belgrade will follow on October 31. - Pole Damage on Jackrabbit Drive: Councilmember Mees reported that a decorative pole (used for holiday decorations) was struck and destroyed by a vehicle near Jackrabbit Drive. Ron Finkbiner of Rocky Mountain Contractors (original installer) offered assistance. Further discussions with the community will follow.

The Belgrade City Council met on October 6, 2025, to adopt an ordinance clarifying the city manager's administrative authority, introduce a fire code update, and receive reports on infrastructure projects, EMS planning, and city operations. The meeting included a consent agenda, a public hearing, and council member updates. Consent Calendar - Approved council minutes drafts unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the public forum or the public hearing for Ordinance 2025-8. Discussion Items - Final Adoption of Ordinance 2025-8: The council adopted a resolution amending the Belgrade City Code to clarify that the city manager is the chief administrative officer and to establish civil litigation and settlement authority. City Manager Neil Cardwell noted this updates pre-1986 charter language. The motion passed unanimously. - First Reading of Ordinance 2025-11: The council considered an ordinance adopting the International Fire Code, designating the city manager as the fire official, and creating a fire marshal position to be held by Lucas Saltchak. The manager emphasized that no changes were made to the existing fireworks amendment. The council unanimously approved the first reading, scheduling a public hearing for November 3, 2025. - Infrastructure Updates (from Reports): Public Works Director reported on two roundabouts: the Dry Creek and Cruiser roundabout is in right-of-way acquisition (60% plans, construction hoped for 2026); the Broadway and Maine roundabout is also at 60% plans, on track for 2027 construction. The Jackrabbit and Maine underpass will start no earlier than 2028. - EMS Board Update: Cardwell reported an initial kickoff meeting for a proposed Gallatin Valley EMS delivery board, with representation from cities and fire districts. Belgrade’s position is that any district formation and potential assessment must go to voters. The board meets monthly, with next steps to draft an interlocal agreement and bylaws. - Parks, Trails, and Recreation Director: Cardwell announced the hiring of Jordan Green (current Deer Lodge city administrator) as the new director, starting around December 1. Green was selected from over 100 applicants. - Water Bonds: The city secured an investment-grade bond rating for a $20 million water storage tank and wells project. Pricing day is November 13, with council consideration on November 17. - Master Park Parcel: A rough design for an 80-acre community master park with wetlands was submitted to DNRC. The city hopes to use wastewater funds for the wetland portion, reducing Park Division funding needs. Feedback expected by early 2026. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 2025-8 adopted unanimously after a public hearing with no public comment. - Ordinance 2025-11 approved on first reading (unanimous), public hearing set for November 3, 2025. - Council received reports and no further action was taken. - Councilmember Meese was unanimously recommended for the League of Cities and Towns executive board as third vice president. - The Christmas Convoy (truck village) permit approved for December 6 weekend; the Hooplaw (by Belgrade Community Coalition) scheduled for the following weekend.

The Belgrade City Council met on September 15, 2025, at 7:00 PM. The meeting included approval of zoning ordinance amendments for two school district properties, a presentation on the 2025 school bond request, adoption of the Belgrade Safety Action Plan, and a recessed tour of the HEC and KOA facilities. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of Workshop Minutes: The council unanimously approved the minutes from the previous workshop. (Motion by Councilmember Simon, second by Councilmember Matamo. Passed unanimously.) Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the public forum or during the public hearings for the zoning ordinances or the bond presentation. Discussion Items - Belgrade School District 2025 Bond Request: Superintendent Didi Simarat and Assistant Superintendent Trey Olson presented a bond proposal for the November 4, 2025 election. The bond would fund a new elementary school on Frank Road to move fifth graders back to elementary schools. Two ballot questions: (1) $6.63 million to complete the school (capacity 250, expandable to 500), with a total cost of $26.63 million (including $20 million remaining from a 2019 bond); (2) an additional $5 million for a full-size gymnasium. For a $600,000 home, estimated annual tax impact is under $100 for question 1 only, or about $115 if both questions pass. The school is expected to open in fall 2027. No action was taken; the presentation was informational. The city manager offered to display materials at City Hall and link to the school district's website. - Resolution 2025-35 – Belgrade Safety Action Plan: City Engineer Joe presented the plan, developed with a Safe Streets for All grant and public input. The plan is advisory and had been posted for public comment since August 11 without any comments received. Councilmember Minicucci commented that reading the plan increased her awareness of traffic dangers. The council unanimously adopted the resolution. (Motion by Councilmember Minicucci, second by Councilmember Bell. Passed unanimously.) Public Hearings - Ordinance 2025-9 – Zone Map Amendment for Ridgeview School Property: The council held a public hearing on a request to zone the Ridgeview School property in River Rock as EI (Educational and Institutional) upon annexation into the city. The annexation is for law enforcement purposes. No public comments were heard. The council unanimously adopted the ordinance. (Motion by Councilmember Minicucci, second by Councilmember Matamo. Passed unanimously.) - Ordinance 2025-10 – Zone Map Amendment for Belgrade School District Bus Barn Property: The council held a public hearing on a request to zone the bus barn property on Frontage Road as I (Industrial) upon annexation, also for law enforcement purposes. No public comments were heard. The council unanimously adopted the ordinance. (Motion by Councilmember Matamo, second by Councilmember Simon. Passed unanimously.) Recess for Facility Tour - The council recessed to tour the HEC and KOA construction sites for informational purposes. No deliberation or decisions occurred during the tour. The tour lasted approximately 90 minutes. The council reconvened for reports and adjournment. Other Business - Deputy Mayor announced a November ballot item for a charter change to extend the mayor's term from two to four years, potentially reducing election costs. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of Ordinances 2025-9 and 2025-10 zoning the Ridgeview School and bus barn properties. - Unanimous adoption of Resolution 2025-35 (Belgrade Safety Action Plan) as an advisory document. - Presentation of the school district bond request with no action taken; the bond will appear on the November 4, 2025 ballot. - Council recessed for a tour of HEC and KOA facilities; no decisions made. - Meeting adjourned.

The Belgrade City Council met on September 8, 2025, to discuss several major agenda items including the award of 2026-2027 Transportation Alternative (TA) grants, the final draft of the Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan, alley maintenance and nuisance code enforcement, downtown parking for events, and the process for filling a Ward One vacancy. The meeting began with a roll call and a motion to excuse Councilmember Simon, which carried unanimously. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were noted in the transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public forum portion of the workshop session. Discussion Items - Award of 2026-2027 Transportation Alternative (TA) Grants: Kemery Yulia, Director of Public Works, presented two successful grant applications. The first project, Hoffman Street (Main to Cameron), is estimated at $3.1 million with a maximum TA grant of $1.5 million. The second, Helen Hoffman Sidewalk Improvements, is a $1.7 million project with just under $1.5 million in TA funding. She noted that out of $9.1 million available statewide, the city secured about a third of the funds. The awards are expected to be authorized by the Transportation Commission in October 2025, with design starting in spring 2026 and construction in spring 2028. Councilmembers expressed excitement and asked about the competitive edge, with staff citing a thorough debrief from MDT and support letters from the community. - Safety Action Plan Results: Joe Houck, City Engineer, provided an overview of the final draft of the Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan. The plan aims to eliminate fatal and serious injury crashes by 2045 through a safe system approach. Key interim goals include a 50% reduction in such crashes by 2030 and a 75% reduction by 2045. Four emphasis areas were identified: walking/biking crashes, impaired driving, intersection crashes, and nighttime crashes. The plan also includes a pedestrian and biking facility selection guide, a potential traffic calming program, and results from a demonstration project on Main Street. Staff noted that the demonstration project significantly increased pedestrian yield rates and crosswalk usage, and that the plan opens up implementation grant opportunities. Council discussed e-bikes, funding for permanent improvements, and targeting the Jack Rabbit Corridor for future safety projects. - Alleys and Nuisance Codes: Code Enforcement and Public Works reported on efforts to improve and enforce nuisance codes in alleys. After 30+ years of minimal maintenance, staff surveyed and improved many alleys, with over 90% of encroachment issues resolved voluntarily. Remaining cases involve code enforcement. Council expressed support for the work, highlighting fire safety and emergency access concerns. They discussed the need for consistent enforcement and the challenges of utility easements. Staff noted that the current enforcement is reactive due to limited resources, but the process is yielding positive results. - Downtown Parking for Events and Parking Zones: Legal and City Administration sought council opinion on downtown event parking, focusing on the three-day notice requirement for towing vehicles. Councilmember Guffey, a downtown business owner, emphasized that the three-day signage discourages customers and negatively impacts business. Suggestions included establishing overnight parking restrictions (e.g., 3-6 a.m.) in the downtown core to allow same-day event parking enforcement. Staff mentioned options such as a downtown parking district, better signage, and education campaigns. The council agreed to continue the discussion in a future workshop, with staff to bring detailed proposals. - Process for Filling Ward One Vacancy: Mayor-elect Mees and staff reviewed the appointment process for the Ward One vacancy. The council favored a consistent approach: publicize the vacancy, accept applications, hold interviews at a workshop before Thanksgiving (November 2025), and officially appoint on the first meeting in January 2026. The outgoing mayor noted that the last city council meeting in December 2025 will be a celebration of his 22 years of service. Key Outcomes - Councilmember Simon was excused and the motion carried unanimously. - The TA grants were discussed favorably; next step is authorization by the Transportation Commission in October 2025. - The Safety Action Plan is expected to be adopted at the next regular council meeting (September 15, 2025). - Alley enforcement will continue with a focus on consistency and voluntary compliance. - Downtown parking discussion will be revisited; staff will develop specific options including overnight parking restrictions and a parking district. - The process for filling Ward One vacancy was set: advertisements starting in mid-September, applications due by late October, interviews at the November workshop, and appointment at the first January 2026 meeting. - No formal actions were taken on discussed items as this was a workshop session.