Public Meetings - Butte Silver Bow, Montana

The Butte-Silver Bow Zoning Board of Adjustment met on March 19, 2026, at 5:30 PM to consider an appeal, a variance, and three conditional use permits. Board members present: Stephen Coe (Chair), Garrett, Heidi, Shanna, Justin, and Mike. Staff present: Julia (Planning Director), Aidan, Joella, and Becky. The meeting began with approval of previous meeting minutes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board voted unanimously to approve the minutes from previous meetings as listed in the agenda packet. Public Comments & Testimony - Appeal 25-02 (Digital Billboard): Two representatives from Lamar Advertising, Eric Sweet and Allie Carly, spoke in favor of the appeal. They argued the conversion would improve aesthetics (changing two-pole to monopole), maintain size, and provide community benefits such as Amber alerts, missing persons notifications, and emergency messaging. No public opposition was voiced. - Variance 26-05 (Residential Addition): No public comments. - Conditional Use 26-01 (Short-Term Rental, 117 Rocky Mountain Lane): No public comments. - Conditional Use 26-07 (Restaurant, 1301 Ka Avenue): Will Pizanti, building owner, spoke in favor, noting the building was vacant for 40 years and is being renovated to support first-time entrepreneurs. No opposition. - Conditional Use 26-08 (Short-Term Rental, 2907 Elizabeth Warren Avenue): No public comments in person, but the board noted one written opposition received prior to the meeting. Discussion Items - Appeal 25-02 – TLC Properties / Lamar Advertising (511 East Front Street): The applicant appealed the zoning officer’s denial of a variance to convert an existing legally non-conforming static billboard to a digital display in the CM zone. Staff presented reasons for denial: illumination is prohibited in CM, the change would increase nonconformity, the sign is within 214 feet of an R2 zone (violating 500-foot separation), and the proposal conflicts with the Comprehensive Plan’s goals to limit billboards. The applicant argued the change would improve aesthetics, reduce light intrusion via downward-facing technology, and maintain size. Board discussion: Chair Coe leaned toward upholding the denial, citing non-conformity with existing rules. Members Garrett and Heidi agreed. Shanna noted the sign is not in harmony with the historic district and referenced a past digital billboard that was removed due to public opposition. Justin and Mike emphasized the board’s role is to enforce the law as written, not to promote progress. The board voted 4-1 to deny the appeal, meaning the zoning officer’s decision stands. The applicant was informed they may have recourse through district court (to be confirmed by staff). - Variance 26-05 – Ready S. Frost (2000 Roberts Avenue): The applicant sought a variance from setback and lot coverage requirements to build an addition on a legal non-conforming residence in the C2 zone. Staff recommended approval, finding the hardship (elevated concrete basement along property line, pre-1945 construction) met the criteria. The applicant stated the addition would address water intrusion, mold, and allow for renovations. Board members expressed support, noting the project would not increase impervious coverage and that the applicant worked with staff. The variance was approved unanimously. - Conditional Use 26-01 – Brent Choquette (117 Rocky Mountain Lane): Application for a short-term rental (Airbnb) in a single-family residence in the R1 zone. Staff recommended approval with standard conditions (public accommodation license, visible address, occupancy limits). The applicant’s brother, Mark Choquette, represented, confirming no parties, 10 PM curfew, and acceptance of conditions. A neighbor suggested improving address visibility due to non-sequential numbering. The board approved unanimously. - Conditional Use 26-07 – Jean Baer (1301 Ka Avenue): Application for a commercial restaurant (sandwich shop) in a multi-unit building in the CM zone. The applicants own Homestake Pub. Staff recommended approval, noting the use conforms to the Comprehensive Plan’s North Corridor place type and would not cause undue detriment. The board expressed enthusiasm for the project and approved unanimously. - Conditional Use 26-08 – Jessica Holmes (2907 Elizabeth Warren Avenue): Application for a short-term rental in a single-family residence in the R1 zone. Staff recommended approval with standard conditions. The applicant noted the property was purchased in September 2024 and is being renovated. A written opposition was received but not read aloud. The board approved unanimously, with a suggestion to use the Elizabeth Warren address exclusively for wayfinding. Key Outcomes - Appeal 25-02 Denied (4-1 vote): The board upheld the zoning officer’s denial of a variance for a digital billboard. The applicant may appeal to district court. - Variance 26-05 Approved (unanimous): Allowed construction of a residential addition with reduced setbacks and increased lot coverage, subject to conditions. - Conditional Use 26-01 Approved (unanimous): Short-term rental at 117 Rocky Mountain Lane, with standard conditions. - Conditional Use 26-07 Approved (unanimous): Restaurant at 1301 Ka Avenue, with standard conditions. - Conditional Use 26-08 Approved (unanimous): Short-term rental at 2907 Elizabeth Warren Avenue, with standard conditions. - The meeting adjourned after all items were addressed.

The Council of Commissioners for Butte Silver Bow met on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, with 10 members present and 2 absent (Commissioners Fisher and Callahan). The meeting included public hearings on budget amendments, a presentation on the FY2025 annual comprehensive financial report and audit findings, approval of a consent agenda, a discussion on the coroner's salary, and passage of a resolution for special prosecutorial assistance. The meeting adjourned with a somber note on the passing of community legend Don Peeple Sr. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the March 4, 2026 regular meeting. - Approved Consent Agenda Section 2A (committee reports 1–4) and Section 2B (communications 1–27) with the exclusion of item 15 (Communication 2026-145). Vote: 10 yea, 0 nay. - Item 15 (Communication 2026-145): Planning Director Julia Crane requested authorization to execute an updated scope of work cross-referenced with Communication 2026-76. The council voted to concur and place on file. Vote: 10 yea, 0 nay. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearings (Item 1 & 2): Mr. Frost (address 2000 Roberts Avenue) spoke in favor of both proposed budget amendments. - Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items: Evan Barrett (807 West Silver Street, retired, Board of Directors of Butte Watchdogs for Social and Environmental Justice) addressed the council regarding data center proposals. He recommended obtaining verified employment data, suggested that SABI should present publicly, and submitted written materials for review. Discussion Items - Budget Amendments (Communications 2026-99 and 2026-100): Health Officer Kara Mullachney presented two requests: (1) amend the FY2026 budget to accept $5,000 from Bridger Care via the Sample Foundation for family planning lab equipment, and (2) amend the FY2026 budget to accept $25,000 (no matching funds) for HIV prevention services. Public hearings were held, and both were scheduled for later action. - FY2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report & Audit Findings (Communication 2026-113): Finance and Budget Director Karen Hassler and auditor Pat Burt (Newland and Company) presented the 400-page financial report. The auditor issued an unmodified (clean) opinion on financial statements and federal awards. The audit noted two repeat findings: (1) internal control deficiencies over cash collections in the Parking Commission, Civic Center, and Landfill (segregation of duties), and (2) failure to reconcile immunization department billings and receivables on a monthly basis. A third new finding involved failure to require retainage on significant construction contracts. Management responses included developing a formal retainage policy and exploring improved software for immunization reconciliations. Council discussed the feasibility of additional controls and the use of the city-county auditor. - Coroner's Salary (Communication 2026-143): Coroner Jason Parrish requested approval to change his position from part-time to full-time salary, effective July 1, 2026. He cited hours logged and the demands of the office. Commissioners discussed legal and procedural considerations (charter language, whether it could be done mid-term, potential precedent). County Attorney Ann Ruth clarified the charter does not prohibit the change and that salary is a budgetary question. The council voted to note and place the communication on file (10-0), with the understanding that further budget consideration would follow. - Resolution 2026-15 – Special Deputy County Attorney: The council approved suspension of rules and passed a resolution appointing a special deputy county attorney to assist in the case of State v. Jerry Haxby. Vote: 10 yea, 0 nay. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved with one segregation (10-0). - Public hearings for two FY2026 budget amendments (lab equipment and HIV prevention) were opened and closed; the council granted permission to schedule formal adoption. - The FY2025 annual comprehensive financial report was accepted, and the council acknowledged the audit findings and management responses. - The coroner's salary request was noted and placed on file; no immediate action was taken, but the council indicated support for further budget discussions. - Resolution 2026-15 was passed on final reading (10-0) to authorize special prosecutorial assistance. - The council noted the passing of Don Peeple Sr., a respected community leader.

The Finance and Budget Committee met on March 19, 2026, with Commissioners Thatcher, O'Neill, O'Leary, Walker, Boyle, and Shay present. The committee reviewed the expenditure list and proposed budget transfers. Discussion Items - Expenditure List Review: Commissioner Shay inquired about sponsorships for annual auctions and dinner tables, noting some claims from 2023 that had not been presented previously. Commissioner Walker questioned an expenditure for driving range balls ($3,500) charged to solid waste disposal. Staff explained that the driving range is built on the old landfill, and the landfill enterprise fund is responsible for maintenance and receives the associated revenue. Commissioner Leary followed up on the inter-departmental arrangement. Commissioner O'Neill asked about an earmarked alcohol fund distribution of $19,064.90, which staff explained is a state quarterly distribution allocated by council to Butte Cares and the CCCS SMART program. - Motion to Approve: Commissioner O'Leary moved to approve the expenditure list as of March 18, 2026, in the amount of $391,155.21. The motion passed unanimously. - Budget Transfers: The committee reviewed nine budget transfers: - General fund: $500 for duplicating courthouse blueprints. - $1,400 for longevity not budgeted and tool allowance. - $40,843 for roads maintenance (longevity, emulsion for Dura Patcher). - $500 for central equipment (longevity). - $3,000 to replace a landfill printer. - $2,000 for a flatbed for sanding truck (road fund). - $780 for a new computer monitor for Director Hassler. - $4,400 for parking garage window replacement. - $6,189 for district court subscriptions and postage. - $5,000 for health department microscope and Copal Machine equipment. - $568 for COVID vaccine advertising. - Commissioner O'Leary asked about the landfill printer replacement and potential maintenance contract; staff clarified it typically includes a maintenance agreement. Key Outcomes - The expenditure list totaling $391,155.21 was approved unanimously. - All budget transfers were reviewed; no further questions were raised. - The committee adjourned by motion.

The Butte Silver Bow Council Commissioners held a special meeting on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 5 p.m. to address two resolutions submitted by Clerk and Recorder Cindy Sherman that would have removed local elections from the primary ballot. Both resolutions were rescinded by Sherman prior to the meeting, leaving no action items on the agenda. The Chief Executive explained the background and then opened the floor for public comment on non-agenda items. After extensive public testimony, the meeting adjourned. Public Comments & Testimony - Ryan Frost (2000 Roberts Avenue) promoted a chili cook-off event on Monday night and encouraged attendance. - Eric Olberg (223 Locust Street, Anaconda, MT) thanked the council for clarifying that the resolution was not done in bad faith, stating it was a great reassurance to the public. - Denise Kelly (107 Candidate Creek Drive) raised a separate issue: she had contacted Clerk and Recorder Sherman two weeks ago seeking to place an initiative on the June ballot opposing a data center but was told the ballot was already finalized. She asked if someone could follow up with her. The Chief Executive noted the council could not answer questions during public comment. - Pat Mundy (723 West Daly Street, Walkerville) emphasized the importance of primaries for voter education and responsibility, even if uncontested, and thanked the council for calling the meeting. - Jess Leducer (1946 Elm, Butte) stated that removing local candidates from the primary would deter voters from participating in state elections and thanked the council for keeping the primaries. - Connie Thompson (53 Kenyan Street, District 4) expressed gratitude that the issue was settled, noting that canceling the primary would eliminate write-in options and confuse voters. She reported that 38 individuals in a private Facebook group voiced concern within 24 hours. - Diane Lane Snyder (612 Hobson) thanked the council, stating the controversy brought her out of political hibernation. She questioned the inconsistency of denying a citizen's ballot initiative due to early ballot printing while simultaneously planning to remove local elections from the same ballot. She also mentioned the SAVE Act (not yet law) and the need for voter clarity. - AJ Brown (District 9) reminded the council about a task force proposal made three weeks ago and requested a response from Chief Executive JP Gallagher, urging collaboration. - Shay (900 North Browns Gulch Road) appreciated the meeting but expressed concern that this situation could set a precedent for future election cancellations, and hoped it would be revisited. - Lisa Farino (434 Cowpoke Trail, Ramsey) corrected a previous speaker, noting the SAVE America Act had passed the House but not the Senate, and emphasized the importance of the June 2 primary and November 5 general election. - Julie Crowley (2901 Harvard Avenue) expressed gratitude for the resolution being rescinded, stated she has never missed an election since turning 18, and reminded the council of the nation's 250-year anniversary. Discussion Items - Chief Executive's Report: Chief Executive JP Gallagher explained that Clerk and Recorder Cindy Sherman had submitted two resolutions to cancel the local primary election based on advice from other county clerks, who indicated that primaries were unnecessary when races had only two candidates or were unopposed. Gallagher emphasized that Sherman acted without ill intent but did not consult the council or the public. Upon learning of the situation on Wednesday, the council immediately called this special meeting to overturn the resolutions. Sherman then rescinded both resolutions, so no council action was needed. Gallagher stated his commitment to election integrity and that local elections drive voter turnout. He also acknowledged public concerns and pledged to address related issues with the clerk. Key Outcomes - Both resolutions to remove local elections from the primary ballot were rescinded by Clerk and Recorder Sherman before the meeting, so no vote was taken. - The council held the special meeting as scheduled, then opened the floor for public comment on non-agenda items. - The local primary election on June 2, 2026, will proceed with all local candidates on the ballot as originally planned. - The meeting was adjourned by motion after the public comment period.

Date: March 11, 2026 The Committee of the Whole met on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 7:29 PM. Chair Morgan presided, with 10 commissioners present and one excused (Commissioner Shea). The meeting focused on a presentation by Fire Services Director Zach Osborne regarding a proposed expansion of the urban fire district to include the Montana Connections industrial park, along with several routine communications and public comments. Public Comments & Testimony - A member of the public commented on the rescinding of the roadless rule for the Forest Service, inquiring about the Parks and Recreation Department's stance and the commissioners' opinions. - Cindy Sherman, Clerk and Recorder, explained her decision to cancel the local portion of the primary election, noting that only four of eight elective positions were contested, which does not meet the legal threshold for a primary. She stated that commissioners could reverse this decision by resolution before Monday, March 16, 2026. Discussion Items - Presentation on Expanding Urban Fire District to Include Montana Connections - Fire Services Director Zach Osborne, joined by Danette Gleason (former local government staff) and Finance Director Karen Hassler, presented a proposal to change the urban fire district boundary to include the Montana Connections industrial park. - History: Danette Gleason detailed the creation of the Uniform Fire District and the Emergency Service Fire District, tracing back to 1994–1998 charter amendments. A prior interlocal agreement with the TIFD for 18 mills sunned on June 30, 2022, leading to a financial shortfall in the fire fund. - Current Funding: The emergency service tax fund generates $1.2 million annually for nine firefighter salaries; the urban fire tax fund generates $5.6 million for 30 firefighters and all operational costs. Montana Connections only pays into the emergency service fund. - Rationale: Osborne argued for equity and sustainability, as Montana Connections benefits from fire services but does not contribute to the urban fire fund. He noted the area's high-risk industrial hazards (e.g., REC, Port of Montana) require extensive training and preparedness. - Financial Impact: Inclusion would bring an estimated $300,000–$350,000 in annual revenue to the fire fund. - Possible Uses of Additional Revenue: Osborne suggested funding an assistant chief of training and operations, a deputy fire marshal (the fire marshal currently spends over 100 hours annually on Montana Connections alone), or providing structural budget stabilization to help the fire fund comply with levy caps under MCA 15-10-420. - Commissioner Questions and Comments: - Commissioner Thatcher raised questions about equity, noting that other areas (e.g., Roosevelt Drive, Beef Trail) also pay only emergency services, not the urban fire fund. Osborne acknowledged those areas also receive fire services but stated the department focused on the highest-risk area first, and future expansions could follow. - Commissioner O'Leary asked about Walkerville's status; Chief Executive Gallagher clarified that Walkerville is an incorporated community and thus cannot be mandated into the fire district. - Commissioner Fisher expressed concern about the impact on businesses already strained by economic conditions and requested that businesses be informed and given time to review the proposal. He suggested a four-to-six-week delay for public input and legal review. - Commissioner Mankins and Callahan echoed calls for broader equity and ensuring all areas contribute, with Callahan also questioning why nonprofits that use services do not pay taxes. - Danette Gleason noted that the original 1998 plan included a mill levy offset for urban district taxpayers, but that offset became obsolete after 2003's HB 124, leaving legacy language that needs cleanup. - Process and Timeline: Osborne and Gleason outlined that a resolution of intent could be introduced as early as the next meeting, leading to a public hearing, then ordinance changes with two readings and a two-thirds council vote. The target for adoption is late June to meet the Department of Revenue's August certification deadline. Key Outcomes - Fire District Proposal: The presentation was held; Director Osborne indicated a resolution of intent would be submitted for the next meeting. No action was taken. - Communications Actions: - Communication 2025-581 (land purchase request) cross-referenced with Communication 2026-104 and placed on file. - Communication 2025-587 (land purchase request) cross-referenced with Communication 2026-93 and placed on file. - Communication 2026-18 (BLDC strategic plan presentation) placed on file. - Communication 2026-63 (drought management plan hearing) placed on file. - Communication 2026-64 (hot mix bid opening) placed on file. - Communication 2026-77 (road mill and fill bid opening) placed on file. - Communication 2026-106 (Montana Connections presentation) placed on file. - Several other communications were held in abeyance pending future hearings or committee reports. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned following the public comment period.

The Finance and Budget Committee met on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Present were Commissioners Thatcher, O'Neill, Boyle, Walker, and O'Leary; Commissioner Shea was absent and excused. The committee reviewed and approved the expenditure list and several budget transfers. Discussion Items - Expenditure List: The committee reviewed the expenditure list totaling $1,318,561.66. Commissioner Walker inquired about a line item for windows, which was explained as a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for the Aspen Place apartments, totaling approximately $700,000–$750,000, with this payment wrapping up the project. The motion to approve was passed unanimously. - Budget Transfers: Several budget transfers were presented and approved: - $15,000 for the Sheriff's Office for non-capital fixed assets (network switches), covering two accounts (sheriff and 9-1-1). - $475 for the RMAP program to pay remaining ads. - $252 for Family Services/Health Department for booth rental at the Cover Light Players Pride show. - $9,200 total for various transfers: other pay (pay not budgeted), printing of cart stickers for 2026, and payroll/personnel charges to cover negatives and meet staffing requirements. - $6,810 for salary and wages for volleyball referees and fitness instructors as unclassified employees, and for volleyball standards for the new Civic Center floor. - $1,700 for a laptop for the cemetery manager (old laptop crashed, not on the IT replacement list). - $2,500 for registration for Sean Frederickson to attend the Parks and Rec Director School. Key Outcomes - All items were approved by voice vote with no audible dissent. The meeting was adjourned shortly after.

The Butte Silver Bow Study Commission met on March 9, 2026, at 5:00 PM. The meeting covered approval of prior meeting minutes, clarification of a vote from December 29, 2025, adoption of a community outreach schedule and budget, and a work session on the preliminary report. Approval of Minutes - February 23, 2026 Minutes: A dispute arose over amended minutes submitted by the recording secretary. Commissioners Cindy Shaw, Dan Denehy, Lori Casey, and Mary McCormick argued that the original minutes (without amendments) should be approved, stating that minutes are a summary and amendments were not germane. Commissioner Ben Thielen declined to vote, expressing frustration. Motion passed 6-0-1 (6 ayes: Casey, Steppen, Denehy, Silk, Shaw, McCormick; 1 abstention: Thielen) to approve the original minutes and reject the amended version. - March 2, 2026 Minutes: Approved unanimously on a motion by Casey, seconded by Denehy, with no discussion. Unfinished Business - Clarification of December 29, 2025 Vote: Chair reported that Commissioner Thielen had stated he did not vote for the motion favoring four commissioners and a mayor, but review of the YouTube recording showed he voted in the affirmative. Thielen acknowledged he may have voted in error at the time, but stated he now believes three commissioners are sufficient. He expressed irritation at being questioned on past votes. Chair reiterated that preliminary report decisions are not final and can change based on public input. Community Outreach Plan and Budget Authorization - Schedule: Ms. Adams proposed listening sessions on April 14 (Melrose), April 15 (Northwestern Energy, 12-1 PM), April 21 (Ramsey, 5:30 PM), and April 23 (Butte Brewing, 5:30 PM). Format: 20-30 minute presentation followed by poster board voting with dot stickers and comment cards. Commissioners agreed to the schedule. - Direct Mailing & Advertising: Ms. Adams requested authorization for up to $9,000, including $7,301 for 17,000 postcards, $800 for an eighth-page ad over 4 weeks, and $1,000 in printing costs. Commissioners supported the outreach as a way to ensure broad county input. Motion by Thielen, seconded by Shaw, passed unanimously (with Casey, Steppen, Denehy, Silk, Shaw, McCormick in favor; Thielen as mover). Preliminary Report Work Session - General Comments: Commissioners provided feedback on the draft report. Key topics included: - Neighborhood Councils: Commissioner Shaw and others emphasized the grassroots, ground-up approach should be preserved. The report language was adjusted to state that the Council of Commissioners will establish policies and procedures via ordinance, and shall approve councils that meet those guidelines. - Fire Services: Commissioner Denehy noted that background sections should clarify that Melrose and Divide have their own fire districts funded separately, and that Walkerville is a separate municipality. Discussion centered on two options: (1) removing volunteer fire departments from the charter entirely, leaving them autonomous with their own taxing districts; or (2) keeping volunteers under the fire chief with charter changes such as a volunteer coordinator. Commissioners agreed that if option one is chosen, the volunteers cannot be required to participate in the fire advisory council, but collaboration could continue via MOU or ordinance. - Transition Period: Several commissioners noted the need to inform the public that a transition period will occur after the election, as elected officials will serve out their terms. The county attorney will be consulted on legal requirements and timeline. - Charter Amendment Presentation: Commissioners discussed how to present proposed charter changes – either as a side-by-side table or a section-by-section summary highlighting only changes. A table approach was favored for clarity. - Task Assignments: - Commissioner Steppen: finalize charter language for fire options. - Commissioner Casey: create a table of sections changed vs. unchanged. - Chair: write the summary and conclusions section. - Commissioner McCormick: complete fire services option descriptions. - All edits to be submitted by Friday for review at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Approved original minutes of February 23, 2026 (6-0-1). - Approved minutes of March 2, 2026 unanimously. - Adopted community outreach schedule and authorized up to $9,000 for mailing and advertising. - Commissioners committed to completing draft charter language and report revisions before the next meeting, with a target to release the preliminary report to the public by March 30, 2026.

The Butte Silver-Bow Council of Commissioners held its regular meeting on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, with 11 commissioners present and one absent (Commissioner Morgan). The meeting included a public hearing on the drought management plan, a presentation on the BLDC five-year strategic plan, approval of the consent agenda with segregations, discussion of several segregated items, a suspension of the rules to add a Brownfields subgrant for the Basin Creek House, and approval of seven resolutions on final reading. Public comments were heard in support of paratransit expansion and on non-agenda items. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the February 18, 2026 regular meeting (11-0). - Approved the Section A consent agenda (committee reports 1–4) and Section B communications 1–29, with the exception of segregated items 20, 27, and 29 (11-0). - Approved resolutions 2026-07 through 2026-14 on final reading; each passed 11-0. These included: - Resolution 2026-07: Sale of a parcel of real property for community development. - Resolution 2026-08: Land exchange to cure encroachment. - Resolution 2026-09: Budget amendment for the Bridger Care My WI lift program. - Resolution 2026-10: Budget amendment for the chronic disease program. - Resolution 2026-11: Budget amendment for the H5N1 influenza A response program. - Resolution 2026-12: Budget amendment for an Intermountain Health grant. - Resolution 2026-13: Budget amendment for multiple health department programs. - Resolution 2026-14: Budget amendment for the syringe exchange program. Public Comments & Testimony - On agenda items: Two speakers addressed paratransit expansion. An unnamed speaker advocated for paratransport services for her clients. Cassie Wick (820 West Mercury Street), on behalf of Ability Montana, thanked the council for supporting the paratransit route expansion, noting it had been a constant issue on the paratransit committee and that health outcomes for those just outside the boundary line will improve. - On non-agenda items: Evan Barrett (807 West Silver Street) urged the council to carefully review the data center buy-sell agreement, describing it as "the most one-sided" he had seen and recommending that the council be prepared to vote no and renegotiate. He also advocated for locating the Silver Bow Creek corridor waste repository at Opportunity Ponds, citing existing rail access and legal advantages. Public Hearings - Drought Management Plan (Communication 2026-63): Public Works Director Mark Neary presented the final drought management plan. Public hearing opened: one proponent (Ms. Frost) spoke in favor, no opponents. Hearing closed. Presentation - BLDC Strategic Plan (Communication 2026-18): Kelly Sullivan, Executive Director of the Butte Local Development Corporation, presented the organization's recently completed five-year strategic plan (through 2030). The plan was developed with community engagement (225+ survey responses, multiple events) and identifies target sectors: manufacturing, tech-adjacent/engineering services, retail/services, family-friendly entertainment, outdoor recreation support businesses, and entrepreneurial startups. Seven strategic goals were outlined, including strengthening BLDC governance, recruiting and retaining businesses, expanding entrepreneurial support, promoting community revitalization, enhancing workforce development, and strengthening partnerships. Sullivan also answered a question from Commissioner Shea about Brownfields funding for the Basin Creek House, noting a $1.5 million coalition grant application due March 16. Discussion Items - Segregated items from consent agenda: - Item 20 (Communication 2026-118) and Item 27 (2026-125): Stormwater management BMP maintenance agreements for Cornerstone Plaza. Item 27 was identified as a duplicate. Director Neary explained that the multiple stormwater items were submitted together after as-built reviews. Both items approved 11-0. - Item 29 (Communication 2026-127): Updated Silver Bow Paratransit Handbook including passenger rules and code of conduct. Commissioner O'Leary praised the expansion affecting his district. Approved 11-0. - Suspension of the rules – Basin Creek House (Communication 2026-128): A subgrant agreement between Headwaters RC&D and Butte Silver-Bow for $95,000 to perform abatement work (removing vermiculite insulation) at the Basin Creek House, funded through the Brownfields program. Commissioner Fisher opposed, questioning why RMAP funds weren't used and why the work wasn't done before volunteers entered the house. Community Development Director Karen Burns clarified that the Brownfields assessment was completed first, the grant covers work not eligible under RMAP (asbestos), and that the funds flow through Headwaters directly to contractors. The item passed 10-1 (Fisher nay). Key Outcomes - Votes: - Minutes approved 11-0. - Suspension of rules to add item 128 passed 9-2. - Consent agenda approved 11-0. - Item 20 (stormwater) approved 11-0. - Item 27 (duplicate stormwater) noted on file 11-0. - Item 29 (paratransit handbook) approved 11-0. - Item 128 (Basin Creek House subgrant) approved 10-1. - All seven resolutions approved 11-0. - Directives and next steps: - Chief Executive Gallagher announced a need for one volunteer commissioner for the Fire Advisory Council. - Budget season is beginning; the chief executive noted that Montana is projected to lose $114 million in federal funding, urging the council to prioritize advocacy for the next legislative session. - The BLDC strategic plan will be implemented with semi-annual public summaries. - Acknowledgments: Chief Executive Gallagher acknowledged the passing of journalist Jim Larson and offered prayers for troops. Commissioners Fisher and Shea congratulated local basketball teams on tournament successes.

Note: The meeting transcript states the date as "Wednesday, March fourth, two thousand twenty-six" (March 4, 2026), while the provided timestamp for the meeting is 2026-03-05T01:59:54+00:00. This summary uses the timestamp date as instructed but notes the discrepancy. The Finance and Budget Committee met on the recorded date of March 5, 2026. The meeting was called to order with Commissioners Boyle, Walker, Larry, O'Neill, and Thatcher present. Commissioner Shea was absent and excused. Consent Calendar - No items were placed on a separate consent calendar. The committee proceeded directly to consideration of the expenditure list and budget transfers. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Expenditure List: The committee reviewed the expenditure list dated March 4, 2026, in the amount of $573,539.99. Commissioner O'Neill noted the list represented the lowest bidder for the relevant items. No further questions were raised by Commissioners Boyle, Walker, O'Leary, or O'Neill. - Budget Transfers: Four budget transfers were presented: - Public Works – Metro: $6,407 for fabricated materials for gravel used in repairs to roads and ditches related to main sewer breaks. - Public Works – Metro (Non-Capital Fixed Assets): $501 for an unbudgeted computer replacement for the chief operator. - Public Works – Storm Water: Transfer for longevity pay not initially budgeted, and a clothing allowance transfer to cover a negative dollar balance. - URA (Urban Renewal Authority): $460 to address costs associated with repairs and maintenance on EV (electric vehicle) stations that were not initially budgeted. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve Expenditure List: Commissioner Walker moved to approve the expenditure list as of March 4, 2026, in the amount of $573,539.99. The motion passed unanimously (5-0). - Adjournment: Following discussion of the budget transfers with no further questions, a motion to adjourn was made and carried by voice vote.