Kalispell, Montana Development News
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7/20/26 Kalispell City Council Session
Published: Jul 20, 2026
City Misses Out on BUILD Grant for Bypass, Pursues Energy Audit Opportunities
The city council was informed that they were not awarded the BUILD grant for the south half of the bypass. While one community in Montana received a small project grant of $3 million, Kalispell's application was unsuccessful. This does not affect the Safe Streets for All grant on Main Street, though a potential conflict point of simultaneous construction projects is now relieved. The award status for the Safe Streets grant is still pending. Additionally, a discussion regarding potential Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) energy audits for city facilities, particularly the wastewater treatment plant, was initiated.
Mountain Climber Service Update: Ridership, Fare Increase Consideration, and Tri-City Commuter Priority
The council discussed updates on the Flathead County Public Transportation Mountain Climber services. Ridership for the last fiscal year (July-June) was 60,979 rides, with 48,069 of those in Kalispell. The service primarily serves general ridership (46%), followed by individuals with disabilities (28%) and seniors (26%). A slight fare increase is being considered to manage capacity, and the agency is seeking increased municipal support. A top priority remains connecting the three cities (tri-city commuter service), but funding and commissioner support are lacking. The agency is also exploring solutions for peak hour demand and trip denials. They compare favorably to other on-demand services in the state, ranking second in production numbers per driver hour.
Residents Voice Strong Opposition to Proposed License Plate Readers Amidst Surveillance and Privacy Concerns
Several residents expressed strong opposition to the proposed automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) and surveillance systems. Concerns centered on mass surveillance, potential for misuse, privacy violations (Fourth Amendment and Montana Code Annotated), lack of transparency, and the trajectory towards an expanding surveillance grid. Jordan Channel argued that the budget documents do not specify what the $70,000 for parking enforcement materials and software buys, and that the term 'license plate reader' appears nowhere. He questioned the legality of using ALPRs without a written policy and a compelling interest, especially if not for criminal justice purposes. John McDonald called the systems 'mass surveillance,' questioned long-term implications, and linked them to global smart city agendas. Both speakers and other residents expressed distrust in the council's handling of the issue, citing a lack of clear answers and potential legal conflicts. Council members Walker and Dow acknowledged concerns, emphasizing adherence to state law and the need for a clear policy for parking enforcement, while expressing discomfort with broader tracking or surveillance.
Resident Concerns Raised Over Senior Housing Affordability and Availability
Diane Porter addressed the council regarding the lack of independent senior communities and affordable housing for seniors on fixed incomes and young families. She noted the prevalence of four-story apartment buildings and high rental costs, citing a new 55+ community with studio apartments starting at $1,995/month. She also mentioned the high cost of manufactured homes. Porter, an 82-year-old widow, expressed a desire to move closer to services but found only single-family homes available that she cannot maintain. She advocated for tiny homes in senior communities, noting their absence in Kalispell and Montana. Darla also spoke, urging the council to consider the elderly, whose property taxes are rising, and to provide affordable housing options beyond those for newcomers. Both emphasized that seniors are pillars of the community and need housing solutions.
Stormwater Facility Plan Integrated into City's Land Use Plan
The council adopted Resolution 6336, which incorporates the 2025 Stormwater Facility Plan into the Callispell Land Use Plan 2045. This action formally integrates the stormwater plan for planning purposes, ensuring that land use decisions consider facility plans. Staff clarified that this does not change the stormwater facility plan itself but officially includes it within the land use framework. Council members expressed appreciation for the detailed work in maintaining the cleanliness of the river and lake, highlighting the importance of such plans for long-range planning and potential cost savings on future projects. A public comment questioned the cost of engineering firm documentation for these plans.
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The Kalispell News archive
Kalispell Public Schools - July 17th 2026 - Special Board Meeting
Kalispell Public Schools - Special Board Meeting - July 14th 2026
7/14/26 City of Kalispell Planning Commission Meeting
7/13/26 Kalispell City Council Session
7/6/26 Kalispell City Council Session
6/29/26 Kalispell City Council Session
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