The Butte Silver Bow Study Commission held a public hearing to gather input on potential charter changes. The meeting began with a presentation on outreach efforts for a community survey, followed by public testimony on four key topics: neighborhood councils, fire services, the number of commissioners, and the form of government (chief executive vs. city manager). The commission also accepted general comments not falling under these topics. Presentation on Survey Outreach - Shana Adams provided an overview of initial outreach efforts. Survey responses indicate resident interest in changes to local government structure, transparency, and technology. Comments expressed frustrations with underfunded departments and a desire for accountability. The survey is still open, with approximately 60 new responses from a recent newspaper article. Commissioners discussed ways to increase participation, including offering hard copies at locations like KBOW radio and the Chamber. Public Comments & Testimony Neighborhood Councils - Dan Banderob (2601 Grand Avenue) proposed that the charter include provisions for neighborhood community improvement councils by commissioner district, with commissioners acting as instigators and coordinators (no vote). He suggested an annual delegate to a Greater Butte Silverbow Community Council to make advisory recommendations. - Larry Winstlow argued that community councils are already law and criticized the current government for lack of communication and accountability. He stated he would take the issue to district court. - Karen Sargent (3021 Josephine Street) expressed support for community councils to improve accountability and representation. Fire Services - J.R. Richardson (1303 Caledonia Street), former fire coordinator, provided historical context: the fire coordinator position was eliminated in the 1995–96 charter because the role had become largely budgetary, with the fire chief assuming operational duties. He noted that volunteer-paid squabbles were minimal by the end. - Ted Burry (922 Lexington Avenue), former commissioner, submitted written comments and thanked the commission. - Karen Sargent, with 30 years of first responder experience, urged the removal of all volunteer wording from the charter, specifically section 7.03. - Dan Banderob discussed the history of volunteer fire departments (VFDs), noting they were originally for county areas now within city limits. He emphasized the need to decide on absorption or continuation and raised issues about funding and community center roles. - Jake Hanley (3485 Quincy), on behalf of IAFF Local 96, argued that VFDs receiving public funds should be governed by the legislative branch like the career department. He described a "gray area" and cited legal requirements for rural fire districts. He criticized VFDs for not complying with testing requirements (SCBA and pump tests) and warned of liability. He supported a unified department as attempted in 1996. - Connor O'Neill (725 13th Street) noted that in 1996, over 7,800 voters approved amendments to unify fire services, and called for honoring that decision. He said volunteers need structure and accountability, not elimination. Number of Commissioners - Larry Winstlow stated that 12 commissioners are unnecessary and that they do not listen to the community. - Dan Banderob suggested that if commissioners are to have additional neighborhood duties, they should be paid a living wage but limited to policy-making. He proposed equal representation for city and county based on population. - Karen Sargent argued that five full-time commissioners would be more efficient and should govern a city manager. Chief Executive vs. City Manager - Larry Winstlow advocated for eliminating the chief executive position, calling it a dictator role, and supported a city manager with community councils. - Bob Worley (3405 Wharton Street) supported a city manager and a five-member full-time commission, arguing that a professional city manager brings expertise in personnel, finance, and department management. - Dan Strisick (3235 Wharton Street), former commissioner and business owner, recommended a city manager style to remove politics and add accountability. He also raised the need for a strong Superfund coordinator and cited past losses due to lack of oversight. - Dan Banderob supported a city manager but proposed a council chair elected at-large to interface with the manager, with a community council nominating the manager and having termination recommendation authority. - Karen Sargent, with experience as interim city manager in Polson, supported a city manager form with careful qualification selection, involving public and department heads in the hiring process. General Public Comments - Larry Winstlow urged the commission to study legal violations he claims exist in local government. - Mary New Fitzpatrick (1901 Roberts Avenue), a senior citizen, expressed concern about potential tax increases from hiring full-time commissioners and a city manager. Key Outcomes - The public hearing was closed after all comments were received. - The commission announced its next bi-weekly meeting on October 6 at 5 PM. - No votes were taken during this hearing; it was solely for public input.
Public Meetings - Butte Silver Bow, Montana
Public Meetings - Butte Silver Bow, MontanaThe Butte Silver Bow Council of Commissioners met on September 24-25, 2025, for a Committee of the Whole meeting. The meeting included presentations on the YMCA aquatic center and the Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) work plan and budget, followed by action on several communications. Chair Boborgan presided with 7 commissioners present and 4 excused (Shea, Walker, Mankins, O'Leary). Consent Calendar - Communication 2025-386 (Library annual report presentation) – Motion to place on file passed 8-0. - Communication 2025-394 (Parking garage recreation request) – Placed on file pending insurance resolution. - Communication 2025-459 (YMCA invoice of $42,000) – Motion to concur and place on file passed 8-0. - Communications 2025-249, 2025-427, 2025-437, 2025-460 (Land purchase requests) – Held in abeyance pending Land Sales Committee reports. - Communication 2025-466 (TBID presentation) – Held in abeyance pending a public hearing on October 1, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on agenda items or on non-agenda items. Discussion Items - YMCA Aquatic Center Presentation (Communication 2025-459): - Stephanie Feist, YMCA representative, presented on the aquatic center's impact. She stated that the YMCA brings approximately 1,900 athletes from outside the Butte Silver Bow area for swim meets, generating revenue for hotels and restaurants. The facility supports the Fritz Apostle Learn to Swim program for every third grader in Butte School District 1 and Central, and an Active Teens program for sixth graders. The YMCA has spent $42,000 on repairs each year over the past two and a half years. Feist expressed gratitude for the community's support over the past 20+ years and fielded questions from commissioners about the Fritz Apostle scholarship (funded by the Apostle family, teaching water safety and self-rescue). Commissioners expressed strong support for the YMCA's work. - Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) Presentation (Communication 2025-466): - Kelly Hazlet, TBID Executive Secretary, presented the work plan and budget. Key statistics: Montana saw 13.7 million visitors in 2024 spending $5 billion, resulting in $680 in property tax relief per Montana household. Approximately 3.2 million people drive through Butte annually. The TBID budget for the coming year is approximately $395,000, funded by a $2 per room per night assessment. Budget allocations include: $65,000 for Hazlet's position (shared with the state CVB), $35,000 for event/tournament grants, $20,000 for meetings/groups, $30,000 for leisure marketing (changed from 20% and 30% as stated? actually transcript says 20% at 20,000 and 30% at 40,000 - recheck:
The Judiciary Committee met on September 25, 2025, to discuss three agenda items: a proposed ordinance to regulate marijuana dispensaries, a request to address urban camping on public streets, and procedural moves for an ADA advisory committee amendment and a park playground funding resolution. Two members of the public testified during the urban camping discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Denise Kelly (owner of REMAX at 1341 Harrison Avenue) reported severe problems with homeless individuals camping on her property, including defecation, aggressive behavior, and graffiti. She spent $2,500 to remove bushes to deter camping but still faces issues. She expressed frustration that homelessness is not a protected class and that police response is ineffective. - Jeff Beckett (resident at 1201 Town Street) described trash left by a camper in a previously clean area near trails, including a mattress, car seat, and garbage. He noted the camper has a vehicle and could easily use the dump, but leaves messes. Discussion Items - Communication 2025-310 – Marijuana Ordinance Draft: County Attorney Enruth reported that he and Sean Peterson met with Director Crane to align zoning with a new ordinance capping recreational and medical marijuana dispensaries at 10 in Butte-Silver Bow. The draft will include a grandfathering clause for existing shops, but if a shop closes, moves, or is sold, a license must be available (if cap is reached, they lose the license). Commissioner Callahan asked about a new shop near a school on Utah Street; the county attorney explained it complied with current state law (500 feet on same street) but the new ordinance will use a 500-foot radius from schools, churches, and heavily used parks. The item was held in abeyance for two weeks. - Communication 2025-374 – Urban Camping: Commissioner Healy requested an ordinance addressing urban camping on public streets. County Attorney Enruth recommended placing the communication on file while they meet on September 29 to review existing ordinances and draft amendments. Citizens Kelly and Beckett testified in support. Commissioner Callahan emphasized that the issue is not about criminalizing homelessness but addressing illegal behavior and trash. Commissioner Healy initially wanted suspension for continued public input, but after discussion a motion was made to hold it in suspense for two months (amended from an earlier suggestion). The motion passed. - Council Bill 2025-03 – ADA Committee Amendment: Commissioner Morgan noted a procedural error: the ordinance was introduced on September 3, should have gone to Judiciary on September 10 but was left off the agenda, then moved to second reading on September 17. He asked whether to move it to final reading or back to second reading. County Attorney Enruth said either was fine. The committee voted to move it to final reading. - Resolution 2025-58 – Clark Park Playground Funding: A resolution authorizing application for Land and Water Conservation Fund assistance through Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks for replacement playground equipment at Clark Park. The committee voted to move it to final reading. Key Outcomes - Marijuana ordinance (2025-310): Held in abeyance for two weeks; draft to be presented at next Judiciary meeting. - Urban camping (2025-374): Held in suspense for two months; Commissioner Healy and County Attorney Enruth will meet and develop an ordinance. - ADA committee amendment (CB 2025-03): Moved to final reading by unanimous vote. - Clark Park playground resolution (R 2025-58): Moved to final reading by unanimous vote.
The Butte-Silver Bow Public Works Committee met on September 25, 2025 (the transcript indicates a meeting date of September 24, 2025, but the provided date is September 25) to discuss two communication items: the condition of a walking trail tunnel under Harrison Avenue and roadside trash/landfill cover requirements. The meeting was called to order by Commissioner Josh O'Neill. Present were Commissioners Josh O'Neill, Dan Callahan, Bill Boyle, Eric Mankins, and Russell Leary; Trudy Healy was absent. Public Works Director Mark Neary was not in attendance. Discussion Items Communication 2024-544 – Status of Walking Trail Tunnel Under Harrison Avenue Commissioner Michelle Shea requested a status update on the walking trail tunnel under Harrison Avenue south of Dickey's barbecue. The committee noted that negotiations with the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) regarding responsibility are ongoing. The tunnel has experienced water backup, with reports of contamination, dead fish, and garbage. Commissioner Trudy Healy expressed concern about health risks, especially for children who have been observed using the tunnel. The committee decided to hold the item in abeyance until Director Neary can report on his meeting with MDT. Communication 2025-297 – Roadside Trash and Landfill Covered Load Requirements Commissioner Russell Leary raised concerns about roadside trash and the need for residents to cover loads when going to the landfill. Commissioner Dan Callahan reported four calls about uncovered loads on Santa Claus Road and suggested coordinating with the sheriff's office and possibly adopting a ticketing system similar to parking enforcement. The committee also discussed partnering with the college group (TIC) that adopted Iron Street for cleanup. Commissioner Healy commended Director Neary for cleaning up metal at H and encouraged community involvement in picking up litter. The committee voted to hold the item in abeyance until the next judiciary or public works meeting. Key Outcomes - Communication 2024-544 held in abeyance until next meeting, pending Director Neary's update on the MDT meeting. Motion by Commissioner Healy, seconded by Commissioner Callahan, passed unanimously. - Communication 2025-297 held in abeyance until the next judiciary or public works meeting. Motion by Commissioner Healy, seconded by Commissioner Callahan, passed unanimously. - Meeting adjourned.
The Finance and Budget Committee of Butte-Silver Bow met on September 25, 2025. Commissioners Thatcher, O'Neill, Boyles, and Healy were present, establishing a quorum (Commissioners Walker, Shea, and Leary were absent). The committee reviewed the expenditure list and approved it, discussed several budget transfers, and adjourned. Consent Calendar - Expenditure List Approval: The committee unanimously approved the expenditure list totaling $1,897,095.07 (4-0). Commissioner O'Neill inquired about a claim for Karasoft Technologies ($33,333.80) for a new permitting software, GovWell. Staff clarified the contract is for one year of Software as a Service (SaaS) and installation costs, replacing an incompatible legacy system. The cost is split among the planning, code enforcement, budget, roads, water, and metro departments. Discussion Items - Budget Transfers: Staff presented several budget transfers: 1. Health Department ($1,114): To increase funding for printing and duplicating (Plan A materials), dues and subscriptions (nurse practitioner certification renewal), and training (vasectomy training). 2. CDBG Program ($200): To reimburse Nancy Deroshiers for gas and supplies for the aging home program. 3. Public Works – Metro ($16,000): To fund a trailer capable of hauling loaders and excavators, as current trailers cannot handle the weight of new machinery. 4. Public Works – Roads ($16,000): Same rationale as the Metro transfer, funding a heavy-duty trailer for road projects. 5. Health Department – WIC Program: To purchase new cubicles, with prior approval from the state. Key Outcomes - Approved: The expenditure list (4-0). - Adjourned: The meeting was concluded following a successful motion.
The Butte Silver Bow Charter Study Commission met on September 22, 2025, to discuss proposed charter revisions, including reducing the number of commissioners, transitioning to a city manager form of government, and clarifying the role of the director of fire services. County Attorney Matt Yanruth presented detailed legal analyses of charter questions posed by commissioners and addressed conflicts between local ordinances and state statutes regarding volunteer fire departments. The meeting also included public comments on neighborhood councils, approval of previous meeting minutes, and planning for the upcoming public hearing and preliminary report. Public Comments & Testimony - Ed Van Rob (Greeley Neighborhood Community Development Corporation) made two presentations. First, he proposed a three-tier community council system (Greater Butte Silver Bow Community Council, District Councils, and Neighborhood Improvement Councils) to enhance public participation. He emphasized these councils should be advisory and not create additional bureaucracy. Second, he clarified that neighborhood councils are independent, officially recognized organizations without code enforcement or governance authority, meant to submit consensual recommendations through the district delegate system. Discussion Items - County Attorney Matt Yanruth provided a comprehensive memorandum addressing Chairwoman Brandle's questions about charter revisions. Key points included: - Reducing the commission size would require significant changes to Article 3 of the charter and could increase burdens on fewer commissioners. - Advisory bodies can remain, but their legal authority must be clearly defined; purely advisory roles are recommended. - The charter should retain the restriction that commissioners cannot directly order city employees, maintaining the manager's authority. - A tiebreaker vote mechanism is still needed, but could shift from the chief executive to an independent presiding officer (e.g., a mayor) to avoid bias. - Transitioning to a city manager model would align with state statutes (MCA 7-3-4362-63) and allow the commission to hire/fire the manager. - The current charter allows for elimination or combination of departments via ordinance, but language should be clarified to avoid locking in permanent departments. - Parks and Recreation gaining director status would clarify authority and chain of command. - Commissioner Silk asked about conflicts between local ordinance 2-16-040 (centralizing fire services command) and state statutes regarding volunteer fire departments (MCA 7-33-2110). Yanruth explained that a judicial interpretation may be needed unless the charter specifically addresses the director of fire services' role and the status of volunteer and rural fire departments. Placing fire service details in the charter would resolve conflicts. - Commissioner Dolan inquired about the timeline for implementing a city manager and smaller commission. Yanruth estimated one to two years, requiring budget adjustments, elections, and transition planning. - Commissioner Casey asked about odd-numbered commissions to avoid tiebreakers; Yanruth noted that absences could still cause ties, so a designated tiebreaker remains prudent. - Commissioner Shaw questioned the exception for inquiry/investigation in Section 3.04, which allows commissioners to ask questions but not direct staff. Yanruth affirmed this distinction. - Commissioner Denihy requested an accurate fire district map; Yanruth noted GIS is working on compiling resolutions to produce a final map, and volunteer fire departments are encouraged to provide documentation. - Commissioner McCarmick discussed the need for sufficient detail in ballot language, referencing Bozeman's transition to a city manager as a model. - Commissioner Purdue Dolan raised the possibility of a forensic audit to identify budget savings, but acknowledged this is beyond the commission's scope. - Chairman Brandle and others discussed supplemental reports vs. ballot issues, with Yanruth clarifying that charter-required items must go to the ballot, while other recommendations can be sent to the council via supplemental reports. Key Outcomes - The commission approved the minutes from the September 8, 2025 meeting (motion by Commissioner Casey, seconded by Commissioner Purdue Dolan). - A public hearing is scheduled for September 29, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM to gather public input on charter changes. - The commission will invite Mr. Van Rob back for an official discussion on neighborhood councils at a future meeting (not the public hearing). - Staff will compile sticky-note comments from recent open houses and share survey results (preliminary percentages discussed) via OneDrive for commissioner access. - The commission will begin planning the preliminary report after the public hearing, including defining ballot issues, supplemental recommendations, and charter language revisions.
The Butte Silver Bow Zoning Board of Adjustment met on September 18, 2025, at 11:28 p.m. (start time noted as 23:28) to consider six agenda items, including one variance and five special use permits. All items were approved unanimously by the board after staff presentations, public testimony, and board discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Special Use 25-14 (1925 Sampson Street): Neighbors Holly Hamilton and Michael Gabbard spoke in opposition, citing ongoing harassment, aggressive dogs, parking issues, and retaliation from the applicant (Nicole Stewart). The applicant, also a police officer, responded with detailed accusations of neighbor harassment and dog aggression. The board characterized the dispute as a private civil matter. - Special Use 25-15 (517 South Clark Street): John Printy of 509 South Clark raised parking concerns due to adjacent clinic traffic. Andy Durkin of 514 South Clark spoke in support, noting the applicant’s community involvement and the property’s proximity to St. James Healthcare. - Variance 25-7 (West Porphyry): James Maddison of 116 West Silver Street spoke in support, stating the vacant lot had been a problem for 25 years. Discussion Items - Variance 2508 – East Park Street Multifamily Development: The board heard a presentation from Planning Director Julia Crane on an application by Lizzie Load LLC to develop two 1,539-square-foot threeplexes and one 2,052-square-foot fourplex on a nearly 16,000-square-foot parcel at 400 East Park Street in the R2 zone. The request sought variances for front, side, and rear setbacks and accessible parking. Staff found the proposal consistent with the 2021 Comprehensive Plan and historic density patterns. The applicant, a local developer, expressed commitment to high-quality construction. No public opposition was voiced. - Special Use 25-17 – 2951 Baird Street Amendment: Staff presented an application by Hey Kids LLC (Lucy Hansen and Heidi Gray) to amend an existing special use permit (24-1) to allow more flexible tenant types without further board approval. The property, a former preschool and church in an R1 zone, would accommodate professional office, daycare, art studio, medical therapy, and recreational uses. No changes to the exterior were proposed. The applicants stated the amendment would streamline tenant turnover. No public comments were made. - Special Use 25-13 & 25-14 – Short-Term Rentals by Nicole Stewart: Two separate applications were considered. For 1166 Evans Avenue (25-13), a neighbor letter of support was submitted. For 1925 Sampson Street (25-14), significant opposition was presented as detailed above. After board discussion, members concluded the neighbor disputes were not within the board’s purview and approved both permits with standard conditions. - Special Use 25-15 – 517 South Clark Street Short-Term Rental: Staff presented an application by Mary Jennifer Callahan to operate a short-term rental in an existing residence in the R2 zone, located within the Economic Driver place type. The board noted that parking issues are common in Uptown Butte. The applicant’s spouse spoke briefly, and a neighbor praised the applicant as a good neighbor. - Variance 25-7 – West Porphyry Single-Family Dwelling: Staff presented an application by Big Fish LLC (Buddy Fisher) to construct a 1,550-square-foot single-family home on a 4,872-square-foot vacant lot in the C2 commercial zone. The request sought variances for minimum lot size, lot width, and setbacks. Staff found the proposal consistent with historic mixed-use character and the North Corridor place type. No opposition was raised. Key Outcomes - Variance 2508 – Approved unanimously. - Special Use 25-17 – Approved unanimously with conditions of approval as outlined. - Special Use 25-13 – Approved unanimously with conditions. - Special Use 25-14 – Approved unanimously with standard conditions; board determined neighbor disputes are a civil matter outside zoning purview. - Special Use 25-15 – Approved unanimously with conditions. - Variance 25-7 – Approved unanimously. All applicants were informed they would receive an approval letter from planning staff. The meeting was adjourned after the last item.
Note: The transcript indicates the meeting was called to order on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, but the official timestamp provided for this summary is September 18, 2025. This discrepancy is noted here. The Butte Silver Bow Council of Commissioners met on September 18, 2025 (per the official timestamp), with nine commissioners present and three absent (Commissioners Anderson, Walker, and Boyle). The meeting opened with a prayer and pledge led by Commissioner Thatcher, followed by public comment, approval of minutes, a presentation from the library director, and action on several items including appointments, a notification system agreement, and ordinances. Public Comments & Testimony - One member of the public spoke about their experience with a neighbor who had stopped taking medication and began using drugs, making them feel unsafe. They expressed concern about how homeless people are treated in other cities (Missoula and Billings), describing efforts to remove benches and tree branches to prevent camping. They urged the council not to punish homeless people. No other public comments were made. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (Section 2: committee reports 1-4 and communications 1-19) was approved unanimously (9-0) with two segregations: communication 2025-451 (appointments to the Business Improvement District) and communication 2025-464 (agreement with Tex MyGov). Discussion Items - Item 1 (Communication 2025-451): Appointments to the Business Improvement District (BID). Commissioner O'Leary segregated this item to thank the appointees present. The appointments were confirmed unanimously (9-0). - Item 14 (Communication 2025-464): Agreement with Tex MyGov to allow departments to opt into a text notification system for property owners. Public Works Director Mark Neary explained the system would replace manual notification for upcoming projects (e.g., water line work, street sweeping). It is an opt-in system currently with 70% community participation. Commissioners discussed differences from the Everbridge emergency system (opt-out, pre-populated numbers), the need to ensure a local phone number, outreach to renters/landlords, and reaching 100% participation. The agreement was approved unanimously (9-0). - Section 3 (Communication 2025-466): Scheduling a presentation on the Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) work plan and budget. The presenters were absent, so the council voted to concur and hold the item in the committee of the whole pending a presentation and public hearing on September 24, 2025. Approved unanimously (9-0). - Presentation (Communication 2025-386): Library Director Steph Johnson presented the annual report for the Butte Silver Bow Public Library. Key statistics: 4,700 hours open (down due to mall branch closure), 14,000 cardholders (43% of population), 66,000 gate count, 3,000 program attendees, 74,000 items, 67,852 checkouts. The mall branch closed after 14 years of free rent; a new location is being sought. Community garden improvements were funded by grants and donations. Commissioners thanked the director and board, and asked about the mall branch timeline and future funding. No vote was taken on this presentation. - Section 5 (Ordinance 2025-03): Second reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 2.62 of the Butte Silver Bow Municipal Code regarding the Advisory Committee for Americans with Disability Act. The ordinance was placed on second reading and passed unanimously (9-0). - Section 6 (Resolution 2025-3.1): Final reading of a resolution to alter the boundaries of the Solid Waste Special District to include Homestake Meadows 2 subdivision. The resolution was passed unanimously (9-0). Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved with two segregations (9-0). - Appointments to the Business Improvement District confirmed (9-0). - Agreement with Tex MyGov for public notification system authorized (9-0). - TBID presentation and public hearing scheduled for September 24, 2025, with item held in committee of the whole (9-0). - Ordinance 2025-03 (ADA advisory committee) passed on second reading (9-0). - Resolution 2025-3.1 (solid waste special district boundary change) passed on final reading (9-0). - All votes were unanimous (9-0) with no opposition.
Note: The transcript indicates the meeting was called to order on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, but the provided metadata specifies the meeting date as September 18, 2025. This summary uses the provided date per instruction. The Finance and Budget Committee met to review and approve the expenditure list and discuss a budget transfer from the Health Department. Commissioners present: Thatcher, O'Neill, O'Leary, Shea. Commissioners Walker and Boyle were absent and excused. The meeting was called to order, and the expenditure list was approved unanimously. A budget transfer was also reviewed and accepted without objection. Consent Calendar - Expenditure List Approval: The committee reviewed and approved the expenditure list for September 17, 2025 (per transcript) in the amount of $570,513.12. The motion was made, seconded, and passed with all present voting in favor. No questions were raised except a clarification on the law enforcement vehicle camera subscription. Discussion Items - Law Enforcement Vehicle Camera Subscription: Commissioner O'Neill asked about the nature of the subscription. Staff explained that the department no longer purchases software; instead, a subscription service is used for cloud storage of body camera and vehicle camera footage. The vendor holds the data, and the county does not store it locally. - Budget Transfer: A transfer from the Health Department was presented: a decrease of $1,114 from operating supplies and an increase into printing, dues/subscriptions, and training. The funds cover printing and duplicating for Plan A print materials, renewal of an UpToDate subscription for the nurse practitioner, and vasectomy training. No further discussion occurred. Key Outcomes - Approval of Expenditure List: Motion passed unanimously to approve the expenditure list of $570,513.12. - Budget Transfer Acknowledged: The budget transfer of $1,114 was accepted without a formal vote, as the committee moved to adjourn after its presentation. - Adjournment: Motion to adjourn passed unanimously.
The Judiciary Committee of Butte Silver Bow reconvened on September 11, 2025, to continue a discussion first opened on September 10 regarding homelessness, park camping, and public safety. The conversation centered on enforcement challenges, legal constraints, and potential solutions, with commissioners, the sheriff, the county attorney, and a representative from the ACLU of Montana weighing in. Public Comments & Testimony - Henry Seaton (ACLU of Montana) stated that while the U.S. Supreme Court's Grants Pass decision permits some camping bans, Montana's Constitution provides greater protections—specifically the right to individual dignity and the right to pursue life's basic necessities, which includes seeking shelter outdoors. He warned that these protections could lead to costly litigation for Butte if the city enacts overly restrictive ordinances. - Commissioner Healy referenced a local resident, John, who reported that 85 police calls were made to Emma Park over a year, many of which he attributed to homeless individuals. The list of calls included welfare checks, suspicious persons, disturbances, and illegal shooting. Discussion Items - Commissioner Healy expressed concern that the community is minimizing the experiences of residents living near parks where homeless camping occurs. She read a list of proposed solutions: expand shelter access, warming centers, transitional housing, safe camping zones outside parks, and deploy service outreach teams with enforcement. She also quoted a statement: "No single approach will resolve the issue. A balanced strategy combining consistent enforcement, swift cleanup, and preventative measures with expanded outreach and long-term housing solutions offers the best path forward." - Commissioner Frederickson (Parks Director) noted that all parks have no-camping signs, but enforcement is difficult. He discussed plans to thin willows at Father Sheehan Park to improve visibility and reduce hidden camping. - Sheriff Lester explained that enforcement is complaint-based and that police respond to calls, but arrests are not made on every call. He emphasized that homeless individuals have the same constitutional rights as housed residents, and that it is not legal to simply relocate them. He noted that 85 calls to Emma Park indicates significant enforcement effort, but many calls do not result in arrests. - Commissioner Thatcher questioned how to fund the proposed solutions, noting that the county faces budget constraints. Commissioner Healy responded that she is still working on funding and plans to meet with County Attorney Ann Ruth. - Commissioner Callahan argued that some individuals are "unhousable"—they have been placed in housing but destroyed it, requiring supervision. She pushed back against the idea that homelessness is solely a housing problem. - Commissioner Anderson delivered a lengthy, impassioned statement calling for action, criticizing the state and federal governments for not addressing root causes (education, mental health, addiction). He suggested that police should be more aggressive in enforcement and urged the community to pressure state legislators. He also apologized for previous rudeness to Commissioner Healy. - Deputy County Attorney Shay confirmed that the Montana Constitution does provide greater protections, including privacy rights, and that any new ordinance must be careful not to create a debtor's prison or violate individual rights. Key Outcomes - Motion to Hold in Abeyance: Commissioner Healy moved to hold the matter in abeyance pending her meetings with County Attorney Ann Ruth to discuss legal options and limitations. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously (voice vote, all in favor). - No other action was taken. The committee will revisit the issue after Commissioner Healy's discussions with the County Attorney.