Great Falls, Montana Development News

City Approves Good Medicine Housing Development for Little Shell Tribe

The City Commission approved the annexation of approximately 18.4 acres for the Good Medicine housing development, established planned unit development zoning, and approved an amended plat dedicating California Avenue as public right-of-way. The project by the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians will consist of 115 dwelling units, including 65 single-family homes and duplexes, and 50 apartment units. The development is intended for rental or lease housing for tribal members and includes parks, open space, and supporting infrastructure. The approval was granted by a 4-1 vote after extensive public comment and commission discussion regarding traffic, infrastructure, and zoning. Concerns about traffic impact on existing neighborhoods, particularly Valley View, were raised, as were questions about future federal trust status and fair housing compliance. Staff and the applicant provided detailed responses and assurances regarding infrastructure capacity, traffic mitigation strategies, and compliance with city standards. The project aims to address the significant housing shortage in Great Falls and foster collaboration between the city and the Little Shell Tribe.