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SHOWING 51–60 ENTRIES
51
AUG 6, 2026 · BUTTE SILVER BOW, MONTANA · COUNCIL OF COMMISSIONERS & COMMITTEES
Butte Silver Bow Finance and Budget Committee Meeting - August 5, 2026

The Butte Silver Bow Finance and Budget Committee met on August 5, 2026, to discuss expenditure lists, liability insurance costs, and a request for a special meeting. Commissioner O'Neill provided details on liability insurance claims totaling $1.4 million for fiscal year 2027. The committee approved expenditure lists for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, and approved a special meeting request for June 29, 2026, to review the preliminary budget. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

PROCEDURAL 64% · BUDGET EQUITY ANALYSIS 36%
52
AUG 6, 2026 · BUTTE SILVER BOW, MONTANA · COUNCIL OF COMMISSIONERS & COMMITTEES
Butte Economic Development Committee Meeting – August 6, 2026

The Economic Development Committee met on August 6, 2026, with all members present. Kelly Sullivan, Executive Director of the Butte Local Development Corporation (BLDC), provided an extensive update on housing initiatives, Brownfields projects, new staffing, business engagement, and loan programs. Commissioners asked clarifying questions and expressed support for the efforts. Presentation by Kelly Sullivan, BLDC - Housing Development Series: A three-part series on developing upper-floor housing in Uptown Butte, organized by Housing Coordinator Nancy DeRosier, scheduled for September 3, October 13, and November 9 from 5-6:30 PM. The series aims to connect building owners with potential developers. Outreach includes social media, posters, realtors, and partnerships with the Montana Board of Housing and local contractors. - Brownfields Update: Approximately six projects in Butte are at various stages of assessment, cleanup, and redevelopment, managed by new Brownfields Coordinator Brennan. - New Staff: Jessica Leducer has joined as Food and Ag Director, making the BLDC fully staffed. - Governor's Road Show: The Department of Commerce held a road show in Butte on July 9, highlighting programs that sunset in 2027. BLDC is seeking a nine-year extension of the sunset to avoid lapsing during a legislative session. Local legislators have been receptive. - Business Accelerator Feasibility Study: A request for proposals for a business accelerator in conjunction with Montana Tech received four submissions. Scoring is due by August 14 via an online portal developed by Headwaters Tech Hub. - New Firms: BLDC conducted red carpet tours for two firms new to Butte, looking for locations and industry partners. Details are confidential. - Montana Women's Finance Cooperative Loan Management: BLDC will manage loans for this new nonprofit, which provides small loans to women-led businesses. The fund currently has approximately $87,000. Loans will be small, easy-to-access, and tailored to new or expanding women-owned businesses. Policies are being developed with input from the cooperative. - Out-of-State Developer Interest: A developer from Utah/Colorado met with BLDC and Butte-Silver Bow Community Development, seeing potential in retail and industrial opportunities at Connections Park. - On-Ramp Hub Community Engagement Meeting: Scheduled for August 13 from 9-10:30 AM at Montana Tech\'s Student Union Building (Copper Lounge), connecting businesses to government contracting opportunities. - Investor Interest: A group of investors toured the Underground Mining Education Center at Montana Tech, considering high-level confidential work that could utilize the underground test bed. - Economic Outlook: BLDC attended the Bureau of Business and Economic Research mid-year update, noting Butte\'s economy is performing well, driven by the tech sector. Next update expected in February. Commissioner Discussion - Commissioner O\'Leary asked about outreach for the housing series, and Sullivan detailed the multi-channel strategy. - Commissioner Healy inquired about the financial arrangement between building owners and developers in the housing series; Sullivan explained it is case-dependent. - Commissioner O\'Leary asked about funding for the business accelerator feasibility study; Sullivan implied it will be determined by the study. - Commissioner O\'Leary further asked about terms for the Women\'s Finance Cooperative loans; Sullivan confirmed they will be low-interest and accessible. - Commissioner Walker asked if existing women-owned businesses adding new ventures would qualify for loans; Sullivan noted that could be included in policy. - Chair O\'Neill commented on the challenge of funding upper-floor development and expressed interest in attending the housing series. Key Outcomes - The committee received the BLDC report and discussed the various initiatives. - No formal votes were taken on policy matters; the meeting adjourned on a motion by Commissioner O\'Leary, seconded by Commissioner Healy, with all in favor. Note: The transcript indicates the meeting occurred on August 5, 2026, but the provided timestamp specifies August 6, 2026. This summary uses the provided timestamp date.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 81% · AFFORDABLE HOUSING 11% · TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION 8%
53
APR 27, 2026 · BUTTE SILVER BOW, MONTANA · COUNCIL OF COMMISSIONERS & COMMITTEES
Butte Silver Bow Study Commission Meeting - April 27, 2026

The Butte Silver Bow Study Commission met on April 27, 2026, to discuss legal advice on fiscal notes, review feedback from public listening sessions, analyze survey results, and plan the upcoming public hearing and decision-making timeline. The commission also debated the structure of future government, including the number of commissioners and whether they should be full-time or part-time. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the public comment period. Discussion Items - Fiscal Note Requirement: County Attorney Anruth clarified that state law does not require fiscal notes for the commission's recommendations, as they do not directly impose taxes or levies. The chair expressed caution about providing cost estimates, as the commission does not set the budget. Several members agreed that attaching fiscal notes could be misleading. - Listening Session Feedback: Members reported strong public engagement, with 10 participants in Melrose, 37 at Northwestern Energy, 18 at Ramsey, and 50 at Butte Brewing. Additionally, 456 online survey responses were received, with more paper copies pending. The chair noted increased public trust and positive feedback on the preliminary report. - Government Structure Options: Commissioner Dunnehy raised the need for clarity on whether a chief executive or city manager form would eliminate the mayor position. He also discussed the number of commissioners (3, 4, or 5) and whether they should be full-time or part-time. Survey data showed 53.3% preferred four commissioners and one mayor, while 34.8% were unsure. The county attorney advised that the commission must narrow options to avoid voter confusion. - Fire Services Ballot Options: Commissioner Dolan expressed concern that fire service options might not appear on the ballot. The county attorney clarified that voters must be given the option to retain the current charter language. The commission must vote to include each option. - Survey Closure: After discussion, the commission voted to close the survey on May 7, 2026, to allow time for analysis before the May 11 meeting. - Public Hearing Format: The commission decided to allow up to five minutes per speaker and to have one summary slide instead of a full presentation. Boards from open houses will be available. ADA equipment will be ensured. - Timeline: Ballot language must be finalized by June 15 to allow review by the Secretary of State. The commission will hold deliberations on May 11 and possibly May 12 or 18. - Full-Time vs. Part-Time Commissioners: Debate centered on whether the charter should specify full-time or leave it to the council. Some members argued full-time ensures engagement, while others preferred flexibility. No decision was made. Key Outcomes - Motion to close survey on May 7 passed unanimously. - Public hearing set for May 4, 2026, at 5:30 PM in this location. - Next meeting scheduled for May 11, 2026, for deliberations with potential additional meetings on May 12 or 18. - Motion to adjourn passed.

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 31% · PROCEDURAL 26% · GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE 17% · PERSONNEL MATTERS 14%
54
APR 23, 2026 · BUTTE SILVER BOW, MONTANA · COUNCIL OF COMMISSIONERS & COMMITTEES
Butte-Silver Bow Judiciary Committee Meeting on Impeachment Request, April 23, 2026

The Judiciary Committee of the Butte-Silver Bow Council of Commissioners reconvened to discuss Communication Number 2026-175, submitted by Mark Phillip. The request asked the Commission to affirm that Butte American finds cause for and recommends that the U.S. House of Representatives vote to impeach President Trump. After debate, the committee voted to move the communication to the full council for further discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Phillip presented his request, emphasizing that he was focusing on what he termed an unconstitutional and illegal war of aggression. He provided a streamlined letter and a resolution, but acknowledged confusion over the proper format. He expressed that the issue is existential and nonpartisan, grounded in constitutional and international law, and urged the commission to speak with a unified voice for core values. Discussion Items - Commissioner Thatcher opposed the request, arguing it is outside the commission's realm of duty, could risk losing federal funding (citing previous funding cuts), and is a partisan political statement rather than a local governance matter. She noted that the community appears split and that each citizen can send letters individually. - Commissioner Gerbrand supported the request, stating it is nonpartisan and allows local citizenry to have a voice, reading from the letter about restoring honor and moral authority. - Commissioner Healy expressed uncertainty, acknowledging the political nature of the issue but also supporting Mr. Phillip's right to use his voice. She suggested modifying the language to reflect the commission's opinion rather than a factual claim of unconstitutionality. - Commissioner Callahan argued that the request is simply to send a letter, not an impeachment itself, and that claiming the action is political ignores that the president frequently breaks the law. He noted that the commission already takes positions that displease some constituents. - Commissioner Mankins struggled with the decision, valuing the need to represent all constituents regardless of political affiliation. He sought further clarification from Commissioner Callahan. - County Attorney Anne Ruth clarified that no court or Congress has declared the president's actions unconstitutional; that remains an opinion. She also stated that a letter could be sent without a resolution, as a normal communication. - Mr. Phillip responded to concerns, arguing that the impeachment process does not require a prior judicial determination of unconstitutionality and that the community can interpret the Constitution for itself. He defended his effort as nonpartisan and based on conservative and libertarian sources. Key Outcomes - Commissioner Thatcher made a motion to move Communication Number 2026-175 to the full council for discussion and consideration. The motion was seconded and passed by voice vote (all in favor). - The committee then entertained a motion to adjourn, which was approved.

GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE 70% · PROCEDURAL 21% · MISCELLANEOUS 9%
55
APR 23, 2026 · BUTTE SILVER BOW, MONTANA · COUNCIL OF COMMISSIONERS & COMMITTEES
Butte Silver Bow Council of Commissioners Committee of the Whole Meeting - April 22, 2026

The Butte Silver Bow Council of Commissioners held a Committee of the Whole meeting on April 22, 2026. The meeting included public hearings on budget amendments, presentations on passenger rail, a study commission on government structure, health insurance renewal, and a community safety task force. Several routine communications were approved. Public Hearings - Communication 2026-171: Budget amendment for the parking garage to increase expenditures by $21,000 due to unanticipated revenue from permits and violations. The increase relates to the revenue sharing contract with Municipal Parking Services. No public comment was offered. The communication was placed on file (11-0 vote). - Communication 2026-172: Budget amendment for the parking commission to increase expenditures by $25,000 due to unanticipated revenue from permits and violations. One proponent spoke: Ready (address: 2000 Roberts Avenue). No opponents. The communication was placed on file (11-0 vote). Presentations Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) - Dave Strohmeyer (Missoula County Commissioner, BSPRA Chair) and Dan Bucks (Senior Policy Advisor) presented on the progress of the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority. - Key points: - Butte Silver Bow is a founding member of the authority, established in 2020 by 12 counties to restore passenger rail service across southern Montana. - The North Coast Hiawatha route (Chicago to Pacific Northwest) is recommended for restoration, with an alternative through Butte via Homestake Pass. - The authority is in a Corridor ID program with the Federal Railroad Administration, the only new long-distance route accepted. A service development plan (estimated $11 million) will be developed over two years. - Goals include twice-daily service in each direction, 21st-century trains, on-time performance, and connections to rural communities. - Other work: high-performance rail (e.g., $15 million grant for Montana rail improvements), workforce development ($6 million grant with MSU). - Commissioners asked about funding and political challenges. BSPRA emphasized bipartisan support and no current federal clawbacks. The presentation was informational. Study Commission Update on Government Structure - RayLynn Brandle, Chair of the Study Commission, presented preliminary findings from the commission elected in November 2025. - Key recommendations (still preliminary, subject to public input): - Retain charter form of government. - Replace the elected chief executive with a city-county manager hired by the council, and create an elected mayor at large to preside. - Reduce the council from 12 to 4 full-time district commissioners (plus the mayor), with redistricting to improve rural representation. - Formalize neighborhood councils with council-established policies. - Add Reclamation & Environmental Services and Parks & Recreation as standalone departments in the charter. - Two options for fire services: (1) make volunteer fire departments fully independent, or (2) unify all fire services under city-county authority with clear leadership. - Public survey results: 63% said 12 commissioners are too many; 52% think the current elected chief executive model is not effective; strong support (44% strongly, 24% somewhat) for a professional city-county manager. - Next steps: Final public hearing on May 4, 2026; final report due July 2026; ballot initiatives possibly in November 2026. - Commissioners raised concerns about costs, tax impacts, implementation timeline (estimated up to 2030), and complexity. The commission acknowledged these are still under deliberation. Health Insurance Renewal (Self-Funded Plan) - Beth Worm (HR Director) and Emily Joan Art (HR Generalist) presented the renewal for the self-funded health plan for July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027. - Key changes: - Plan One (traditional): deductible increases from $1,000/$2,000 to $1,500/$3,000 (individual/family) with 15% premium increase. - Plan Two (high deductible): deductible increases from $3,300/$6,600 to $3,400/$6,800 (per IRS) with 10% premium increase. - Plan Three (high deductible): no structural changes, 5% premium increase. - Stop-loss insurance will increase by 14.2% (but less than market 15-20%). - New 340B program for specialty drugs saving about $7,000/month. - Other benefits unchanged: dental, vision, EAP (Intermountain Health), telemedicine (MD Live), health concierge (Rightway), life insurance, etc. - Open enrollment meetings May 5-7, 2026. The presentation was informational; the communication was placed on file (11-0 vote). Butte Community Safety Task Force - Jesse Gonzalez (Butte Strong) proposed creating a Butte Community Safety Task Force to coordinate responses to federal enforcement actions (e.g., ICE), provide know-your-rights education, and build trust. - Requested: official recognition and endorsement from the city, a liaison from the executive director, seating of representatives, and quarterly reports. - Commissioners expressed concerns about taking an official political position that could affect state funding. Chief Executive Gallagher noted they already have relationships with local law enforcement and preferred the task force form independently without official city designation. - Several commissioners encouraged the group to continue meeting and invite commissioners individually, but declined official endorsement. - The communication was placed on file (11-0 vote) without formal action on the request. Key Outcomes - Communications placed on file (all 11-0 votes): 2026-159 (BSPRA presentation), 2026-163 (economic development mill levy proposals call), 2026-164 (mill levy grant reports schedule), 2026-165 (Belmont Water Tower Park bid opening), 2026-171 (parking garage budget amendment), 2026-172 (parking commission budget amendment), 2026-178 (Study Commission presentation), 2026-179 (Community Safety Task Force presentation), 2026-180 (health insurance renewal presentation), 2026-181 (District 9 cleanup event). - Held in abeyance: Communications 2026-102 (land purchase request, pending land sales committee report) and 2026-177 (fire district boundary expansion, pending May 6 public hearing). - No formal vote on the study commission recommendations or task force request; both are still in development. Public Comments & Testimony - Alison Anderson (District 9) expressed concern about fire service issues and asked for follow-up on House Bill 547 and leadership talks. She supported the task force approach. - Commissioner Fisher noted that April 22 is Earth Day and the anniversary of when Atlantic Richfield shut off pumps, leading to Berkeley Pit flooding. - County Attorney Ann Ruth announced guilty verdicts in a child pornography case prosecuted by Ann Shea and Caitlin Lamb. Other Business - The meeting adjourned following the announcements.

GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE 31% · PROCEDURAL 13% · TRANSPORTATION SAFETY 9% · EMPLOYEE BENEFITS 8%
56
APR 23, 2026 · BUTTE SILVER BOW, MONTANA · COUNCIL OF COMMISSIONERS & COMMITTEES
Judiciary Committee Meeting - April 23, 2026

The Butte-Silver Bow Judiciary Committee met on April 23, 2026, to discuss several items including a citizen communication regarding impeachment, a fire services district boundary change, a property sale, an economic development mill levy, and an ordinance amendment for special events. The meeting was chaired by Commissioner Shea. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Phillip presented a communication (2026-175) requesting the Council of Commissioners affirm that Butte American finds cause for and recommends that the U.S. House of Representatives vote to impeach President Trump. He provided a binder with exhibits and a letter. The committee tabled the item. Discussion Items - Resolution 2026-18: Fire Services District Boundary Change – The committee held the resolution in abeyance pending a public hearing on May 6. Commissioner Thatcher expressed frustration with REC's letter, noting that REC pays zero in fire services tax while Montana Resources pays $935,000 and Northwestern Energy pays $668,000. County Attorney Andrew cited a Montana Supreme Court ruling (CODL v. State) that equal protection allows reasonable classifications, even if burdens are higher. Commissioner Callahan clarified that REC pays an emergency service fee for fire protection. - Resolution 2026-21: Sale of Property in Walkerville (lots 11-14, block 9, transit addition) – Moved to final reading. Commissioner Callahan raised concerns about lack of information and maps. Director Frederickson noted the land sales committee recommended the sale. Motion passed. - Resolution 2026-22: Economic Development Mill Levy Continuation – Held in abeyance for review by the county attorney. Discussion about fiscal years: Director Hassler clarified that the levy is for the current year's money, and a continuing resolution will be needed for future years. - Council Bill 2026-01: Ordinance Amending Special Events Code – Moved to second reading. Director Frederickson explained updates including a $25 application fee (down from $100), new provisions for business use, guided tours, photography for profit, and adjusting mine yard rental fees through the Parks and Recreation Board. Key Outcomes - Communication 2026-175: Tabled. - Resolution 2026-18: Held in abeyance as amended, pending public hearing May 6. Motion passed unanimously. - Resolution 2026-21: Moved to final reading. Motion passed. - Resolution 2026-22: Held in abeyance. Motion passed. - Council Bill 2026-01: Moved to second reading. Motion passed.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 28% · PARKS AND RECREATION 25% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 23% · PROCEDURAL 11%
57
APR 23, 2026 · BUTTE SILVER BOW, MONTANA · COUNCIL OF COMMISSIONERS & COMMITTEES
Public Works Committee Meeting – April 22, 2026

The Public Works Committee of Butte-Silver Bow met on April 22, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the courthouse council chambers. Present were Chair Mankins, Vice Chair O'Neill, Commissioners Callahan, Boyle, Healy, and absent Commissioner Airy. Director Mark Neary of Public Works provided updates. The committee addressed two communications: the status of a pedestrian tunnel under Harrison Avenue and roadside trash/landfill covered load requirements. Discussion Items - Communication 2024-544 – Walking Trail Tunnel Under Harrison Avenue: Commissioner Michelle Shea (District 2) requested a status update. Director Neary explained that what was thought to be a pedestrian tunnel is actually a Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) culvert, not a walking trail. It was informally used as a trail but is not feasible. MDT is responsible. Plans include removing the ramps to restore the culvert and improving pedestrian safety at the at-grade crossing, possibly with a push-button system to adjust crossing time. Commissioner Healy witnessed a pedestrian who did not make it across. The committee decided to place this communication on file. Commissioner Shea will introduce a new communication focusing on pedestrian safety and the push-button option. - Communication 2025-297 – Roadside Trash and Landfill Covered Load Requirements: Commissioner Russell O'Leary (District 5) raised concerns. Director Neary reported that MDT approved signage on Iron Street and Santa Claus Road (after shoulder widening) reminding drivers of the covered load ordinance. The road department has prepared post holes but is delayed due to a printer issue. Enforcement is needed, and Sheriff Lester previously attended a meeting. Challenges include out-of-town trash haulers and illegal dumping when landfill staff turn away uncovered loads. A future system tying landfill access to an address (e.g., via card reader) could enable billing rather than turning trucks away, reducing dumping on county roads. Commissioner Callahan suggested a sign on Orofina Road as well. The committee voted to hold this communication in abeyance pending Commissioner O'Leary's input at a later meeting. Key Outcomes - Communication 2024-544: Motion to place on file (noted and closed) passed unanimously. Director Neary will remove the ramps, returning the culvert to its original function. Commissioner Shea committed to introducing a new communication on pedestrian safety at the Harrison Avenue crossing. - Communication 2025-297: Motion to hold in abeyance (pending Commissioner O'Leary) passed unanimously. The committee acknowledged progress on signage and enforcement, with further improvements (address-linked landfill access) under consideration.

ENGINEERING AND INFRASTRUCTURE 38% · ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION 21% · PUBLIC SAFETY 14% · TRANSPORTATION SAFETY 11%
58
APR 22, 2026 · BUTTE SILVER BOW, MONTANA · COUNCIL OF COMMISSIONERS & COMMITTEES
Finance and Budget Committee Meeting - April 22, 2026

The Finance and Budget Committee met on April 22, 2026, with Commissioners Thatcher, O'Neill, Boyle, and Mankins (standing in) present. Commissioners Walker, Shea, and O'Leary were initially absent, though Commissioner Shea arrived later. The committee reviewed the expenditure list and several budget transfers. Expenditure List Approval - The committee reviewed the expenditure list as of April 22, 2026, totaling $993,020.62. A motion was made and seconded to approve the list. The motion passed unanimously (5-0 after Commissioner Shea's arrival). Budget Transfers - Six budget transfers were presented: - $2,000 from Community Development (CDBG) for training. - $200 to General Fund Land Records to increase postage for mailing certificate of surveys. - $1,500 to Treasurer's Department (General Fund) to restore a line item to $4,600 for carpet. - $45,000 to Government Buildings to complete ADA parking lot and concrete work between courthouse and LEC. - $8,000 to Government Buildings to complete temperature controls for HVAC systems in city-county buildings. - $80 to URA to cover costs for new computer monitors. - No questions were raised on the budget transfers. Key Outcomes - The expenditure list was approved with a vote of 5-0. - The budget transfers were presented without objection. - The meeting was adjourned.

PROCEDURAL 100%
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APR 16, 2026 · BUTTE SILVER BOW, MONTANA · COUNCIL OF COMMISSIONERS & COMMITTEES
Butte Silver Bow Council Meeting: April 15, 2026

The Butte Silver Bow Council of Commissioners held a regular meeting on April 15, 2026, with 11 commissioners present and one absence (Commissioner Shea). The meeting included bid openings, multiple presentations from recipients of economic development mill levy grants, consent agenda approvals, and several resolutions. Key topics included veteran honors, park improvements, downtown beautification, grant funding for public safety and infrastructure, and a report on uncollectible business development center receivables. Presentations: Economic Development Mill Levy Grant Recipients (2024–2025) - Kate Woods (Butte Amateur Hockey Association) reported using $18,000 of a $20,000 grant to install 23 new windows at the Butte Community Ice Center, with 16 installed before winter. The association hosts 105 youth players, 160+ adult members, and attracts over 1,200 kids and families from out of town. The association will not seek new funding this cycle due to board transition. - Chrissy Kriskowski (The Body Shop, formerly Copper City Strength and Conditioning) reported using a $5,500 grant for specialized rubber flooring. The gym now has 118 members, 37 drop-in visitors from out of state, and averages over 800 check-ins per month. It also serves as an incubator for personal trainers, with one new entrepreneur already onboarded. - George Everett (Montana Folk Festival and Uptown Tree Project) reported on two grants. For the Folk Festival, $11,000 was used for security, with total security spending of $13,500. The festival reports no criminal incidents on-site. For the tree project, $15,000 funded 26 new trees on entryway streets (Montana, Maine, Front, Iron); the tree survival rate is about 90%, with one tree lost to a car strike. Watering is done via truck because the sprinkler system on Montana Street is non-functional. - Brendan McDonough (Montana Gaelic Cultural Society / Montana Irish Festival) reported using a $7,500 grant for performer lodging at the Finland Hotel, covering about half of the $16,000 lodging expense. The all-volunteer committee has completed 21 festivals. This year, four international groups (three bands from Ireland, one stateside) are booked. Weather continues to be a challenge; Friday attendance was light due to 25°F temperatures, but Saturday was warm and successful. - Daniel Hogan (Clardan LLC / Walkerville Grocery Project) reported using a $2,500 grant to pay a foreman. The project has received about $175,000 in grant funding over eight years (since 2017) and 12,000 hours of volunteer labor. Completed work includes installing six gothic church windows, five double-hung windows, fitting new doors, painting, tile, oak flooring, and framing a kitchen, bathroom, and coffee area. Electrical and plumbing are underway. The project aims to provide a grocery store, deli, and coffee roaster in Walkerville. - Greg McDonald (Helsinki Bike Rally) reported using a grant to fund a one-day motorcycle rally that raised money for Brock Shepherd's service dogs (one dog purchased at $5,000 each), Northwest Little League, and Colt Anderson's Foundation. The rally is now fully self-funded and expanding to three days in 2026. McDonald stated they are not requesting funds this year. - Ron Davis (Advantage Butte) reported that an $11,500 grant generated $675,000 in economic impact: $325,000 from the Big Sky volleyball tournament (11 teams, 7 from out of state) and $350,000 from the Southern B volleyball tournament. Advantage Butte, founded in 2004, has brought over $55 million into Butte through sports events. The organization is volunteer-run and funded by 21 businesses ($500 each) and the TBID. Davis noted a current bank balance of $4,192 against committed expenditures of $61,217, with additional outstanding commitments of $69,455. - Zach Hamner (Nomad Stepping In) reported using a $3,000 grant for a mini chopper restoration project, completed with a raffle awarding the bike to a local family. Two unauthorized withdrawals totaling $1,400 were identified; $822 of organizational funds were taken as well. Financial access has been restricted. The project deliverables were completed. Bid Openings - Communication 2026-163: Proposals for FY2025–2026 economic development mill levy funds were opened. Twelve bids were received totaling $91,920. The matter was referred to the Economic Development Committee. (Motion: Morgan; 11-0 vote) - Communication 2026-165: One bid from TCS Northwest LLC for improvements to Belmont Water Tower Park was opened. Base bid: $205,396.80; add alternates: $47,352; total: $252,748.80. The engineer's estimate was $253,136. The project includes a walking path, benches, landscaping, and stormwater improvements. The matter was referred to the Community Development Department. (Motion: Morgan; 11-0 vote) Consent Agenda - The consent agenda (Committee Reports A1–4, Communications B1–26) was approved with the exclusion of items 5, 10, 13, 16, 17, 18, and 25. (Motion: Morgan; 11-0 vote) Segregated Consent Items - Item 5 (Comm. 2026-183): Grant agreement with Montana SHPO for $6,000 (no match required). Concurred and placed on file. (Motion: Fisher; 11-0 vote) - Item 10 (Comm. 2026-188): Authorization to apply for a grant for flash and sound suppressors for the tactical team; no match required. Concurred and placed on file. (Motion: Gerbrand; 11-0 vote) - Item 13 (Comm. 2026-191): Agreement with D.L. Adams Associates for design of a new sound system for the Civic Center ($42,000). Commissioner Fisher expressed concern over "etc." in travel costs; County Attorney Enruth confirmed it covers all travel costs. Concurred and placed on file. (Motion: Fisher; 11-0 vote) - Item 16 (Comm. 2026-194): Amendment to parking meter agreement to correct a typo in the company name (Municipal Parking Services LLC). Concurred and placed on file as amended. (Motion: O'Leary; 11-0 vote) - Item 17 (Comm. 2026-195): Agreement with Montana DOJ NRD for Basin Creek Park rehabilitation and a free meter replacement program (total $751,515; $16,050 match from Butte Silver Bow). Commissioner Fisher noted the segregation was to inform the public on Tax Day. Concurred and placed on file. (Motion: Fisher; 11-0 vote) - Item 18 (Comm. 2026-196): Change order with Markovich Construction for ADA improvements at the Chelsea Bailey Animal Shelter ($27,380 addition to original $197,000 contract). Concurred and placed on file. (Motion: Fisher; 11-0 vote) - Item 25 (Comm. 2026-203): Write-off of $17,661.28 in uncollectible receivables from the Business Development Center. After discussion about collectibility and the need to close out the fund, the motion passed 9-2 (Yay: Morgan, Fisher, Walker, O'Neill, Callahan, Thatcher, Boyle, O'Leary, Gerbrand; Nay: Healy, Mankins). Communications to be Read and Acted Upon - Communication 2026-181 (Commissioner Mankins): Cleanup event in District 9 with four dumpster locations. Referred to Committee of the Whole. (Motion: Mankins; 11-0 vote) Resolutions - Resolution 2026-17: Budget amendment appropriating unanticipated revenue from a Bridger Care Foundation grant. Passed final reading. (Motion: Morgan; 11-0 vote) - Resolution 2026-19: Budget amendment appropriating unanticipated revenue from a contract amendment for the HIV prevention program. Passed final reading. (Motion: Morgan; 11-0 vote) - Resolution 2026-20: Appointment of a special deputy county attorney to assist with the prosecution of State v. Adriana Atchinson. Suspension of rules granted; passed final reading. (Motion: Morgan; 11-0 vote) Public Comments (Non-Agenda) - One speaker (2000 Roberts Avenue) noted the front doors of the building were locked, forcing entry through the ADA entrance, and requested an explanation. Meeting Adjournment The meeting was adjourned following a motion and second.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 28% · BUDGET EQUITY ANALYSIS 19% · PARKS AND RECREATION 13% · PROCEDURAL 11%
60
MAR 23, 2026 · BUTTE SILVER BOW, MONTANA · COUNCIL OF COMMISSIONERS & COMMITTEES
Butte-Silver Bow Study Commission Meeting on Preliminary Report and Public Outreach – March 23, 2026

The Butte-Silver Bow Study Commission met on March 23, 2026, to finalize its preliminary report, plan public outreach efforts, and discuss several substantive charter amendment proposals. Key topics included the structure of fire services, the adoption of a city/county manager, and the reduction and restructuring of the council of commissioners. The commission also reviewed a new community survey and scheduled listening sessions. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the March 9, 2026 meeting (motion by Shaw, second by Dennehy, unanimous). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received on non-agenda items. Discussion Items - Public Outreach Update: Ms. Adams presented a flyer with confirmed listening session dates, a new digital community survey (live via QR code), and postcard mailer. Discussion included adding contact information (email, phone, mailing address) to the flyer, providing paper surveys at libraries, the courthouse, the chamber, and KDBOW, and ensuring accessibility for older residents less familiar with QR codes. The commission agreed to set a goal of approximately 400 survey responses to match the previous cycle's statistical significance. - Preliminary Report Work Session: The commission reviewed a draft of the preliminary report, focusing on structure, formatting, and content. Key points included: - Reorganizing the report to start with a letter to the public, followed by an introduction and the study commission process. - Ensuring consistent heading styles and generating a table of contents. - Clarifying the relationship between the mayor and the city/county manager proposals. The commission agreed to link the mayor position as a sub-item (e.g., 3a or 3b) under the city/county manager section rather than under the council of commissioners section. - Adding a one-page summary handout for listening sessions (volunteered by Commissioner Steppen). - Fire Services Options: Debate centered on the language for the two fire service options in the report. Option 1: removing volunteer fire departments from the charter. Option 2: revise charter language to clarify a united fire service. Commissioners argued the wording should be neutral and not imply a positive or negative tilt. The commission also discussed adding a section on potential legal outcomes for both options. - Auditor and Assessor Positions: A commissioner inquired whether removing these elected positions should be reconsidered. The county attorney noted the charter allows the council to remove such positions if state law no longer requires them. The commission decided not to put this on the next meeting agenda, preferring to gauge public feedback from the survey and listening sessions before considering changes. - Transition Periods: The commission agreed to include a general statement in the report that a transition plan will be developed for any charter changes, with specific language to be refined in the final report. Key Outcomes - The commission will meet again on March 30, 2026, to finalize and affirm the preliminary report for release. - Scheduled listening sessions will begin, with the next regular commission meeting set for April 27, 2026, to prepare for the May 4, 2026 public hearing. - Commissioner Steppen agreed to develop a one-page summary handout for listening sessions and worked with the county attorney on transition legal options. - Commissioner Denehy will represent the commission at a local event on Wednesday with Mr. Thielen. - The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE 31% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 22% · FIRE SERVICES 21% · FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY 9%
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