Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Two Openings On The Airport Authority Board

The terms of the appointed members would be through December 31, 2014. The Regional Airport Authority Board is the governing body and policy setting board for the operation and management of the Great Falls International Airport. The board is responsible for employing the Airport Director, who hires staff and oversees the day-to-day operations of the Airport. The Board consists of seven members, appointed to three-year terms. Members serve without compensation.

The Airport Authority Board generally meets on the last Tuesday of each month at 1:00 p.m. The Application Packet is available here, or at the City Manager's Office in the Civic Center, Suite #201, or by calling 455-8450. For more information about the board, contact John Faulkner at 727-3404.

Application deadline is 3 p.m., Friday, December 30, 2011.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

City Work Session, Dec. 20, 2011

When: Tuesday, Dec. 20 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Mayor/Commission/Neighborhood Council Swearing In Ceremony
Swimming Pools Marketing Strategies – Marian Permann

Neighborhood Councils - Week of December 19, 2011

No meetings are planned this week.

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of December 12, 2011

Three councils are meeting this week:

When: Monday, Dec. 12 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

When: Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Meadowlark School Library

Agenda:
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

When: Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: West Elementary School Cafeteria

Agenda:
Drug Take Back - Steve Bolstad
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Meeting canceled.

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Neighborhood Council Members Swearing-in Ceremony

In order to serve in January, all Neighborhood Council members must be sworn in. The City Clerk has arranged a swearing-in ceremony for Tuesday, December 20, 2011, at 5:30 p.m. in the Gibson Room. The Honorable Judge Dirk Sandefur will be officiating. Please plan to attend.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of December 5, 2011

Three councils are meeting this week:

NC#6
When: Wednesday, Dec. 7 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Sunnyside School Music Room

Agenda:
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

When: Thursday, Dec. 8 at 6:30 p.m. (rescheduled to accommodate the holidays)
Where: Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Street North

Agenda:
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

When: Thursday, Dec. 8 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Great Falls High, South Campus, Room #106

Agenda:
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of November 28, 2011

One council is meeting this week:

NC#3
When: Thursday, Dec. 1 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Riverview School Multi-purpose room

Agenda:
Stone Meadows Development
GFPS dance policy
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Monday, November 21, 2011

City Advisory Board Openings

REGIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY
Two openings. The terms of the appointed members would be through December 31, 2014. The Regional Airport Authority is the governing body and policy setting board for the operation and management of the Great Falls International Airport. The board is responsible for employing the Airport Director, who hires staff and oversees the day-to-day operations of the Airport. The Board consists of seven members, appointed to three-year terms. Members serve without compensation. The Airport Authority Board generally meets on the last Tuesday of each month at 1:00 p.m. For more information, contact John Faulkner at 727-3404.

PARK AND RECREATION BOARD
The Park and Recreation Board an opening for a three-year term through December 31, 2014. The Board consists of seven members. The Board advises the City Commission and the City Manager on all matters related to the Park and Recreation programs in the City of Great Falls. Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month at 3:00 p.m. Applicants must live within the city limits. For more information, contact Marty Basta at 771-1265.

One opening for a three-year term through December 31, 2014. The Board consists of five to seven members. The Board advises on all matters related to the successful operation of the Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts and public meeting rooms. Meetings are the third Friday of each month at noon. For more information contact Dona Hughes at 455-8495.

The Community Development Council has two openings to fill the remainder of three-year terms through October 31, 2013. The Council consists of ten members appointed by the City Commission. The Community Development Council reviews CDBG funding applications and makes recommendations to the City Commission concerning funding from the City's annual Community Development Block Grant. Interested applicants must be live within the city limits. The Council meets on demand, generally in February and March. For more information, contact Chris Imhoff at 455-8407. Application deadline: 5 p.m., Wednesday, November 23, 2011.


Applications are available at the City Manager's Office, Civic Center, Room 201, by calling 455-8450, or by using the online, fill-out, print, and mail/fax Board Opening Application which is available in PDF format. Application deadline is 5 p.m., Friday, December 2, 2011. unless otherwise noted.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of November 21, 2011

One council is meeting this week:

NC#5
When: Today, Nov. 21 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Great Falls Clinic Specialty Center

Agenda:
Storm water drainage at Grandview and Cascade Ridge
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

City Work Session, November 15, 2011

When: Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 5:30 pm
Where: City Commission Chambers

Agenda:
Municipal Building Energy Audit Report -- Morrison-Maierle

Neighborhood Councils, Week of November 14, 2011

Only one council is meeting this week:

NC#8
When: Thursday, November 17 at 6:00 pm
Where: Great Falls Pre Release Center, Women's Annex

Agenda:
Police Chief recruitment questions
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#7's meeting, that was scheduled for Monday, Nov. 14, was canceled.

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Gregori Retires From SME

On Tuesday, nearly one week before the Nov. 17 creditor's meeting, Tim Gregori retired as general manager. Not surprisingly, there was no emergency meeting called, or any notice given to the trustees. Alan See, the general manager of the Tongue River Electric Co-op, is the interim manager. No vote taken for this decision either.

More details here.

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of November 7, 2011

Three councils are meeting this week:

NC#1
When: Tuesday, Nov. 8, at 7:00 pm
Where: Meadow Lark School Library

Agenda:
RSIP - Stelling
Police Chief recruitment questions
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#2
When: Wednesday, Nov. 9 at 7:00 pm
Where: West Elementary School Cafeteria

Agenda:
West Levee update
West Bank Park update
RSIP - Stelling
Accessory buildings in R1 districts—Wendy Thomas
Police Chief recruitment questions
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#9
When: Thursday, Nov. 10 at 7:00 pm
Where: Great Falls High School, Old Gym
 
Agenda:
Great Falls High School Task Force
Police Chief recruitment questions
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of October 31, 2011

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#6
When: Wednesday, Nov. 2 at 7:00 pm
Where: Sunnyside School Music Room

Agenda:
Accessory Buildings in R1 Districts—Wendy Thomas
Conditional Use Permit for 264 15th Avenue South—Richard Cole
Committee reports
Neighborhood Concerns
 
When: Thursday, Nov. 4 at 7:00 pm
Where: Riverview Elementary Gymnasium
 
Agenda:
Skyline and Jaycee Park discussion
Sale of existing park land to fund Skyline Park development
Park and Rec—Marty Basta and Giles Salyer
Leadership Great Falls
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Work Session, November 1, 2011

No work session is scheduled.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of October 24, 2011

There are two meetings this week:

The Council of Councils, the umbrella group of the Neighborhood Councils, is meeting tonight, Tuesday, Oct. 25 at 7:00 pm in the Gibson Room at the Civic Center. Agenda items include:

1. Update on the large vehicle parking ordinance
2. Budget presentation by City Manager Greg Doyan and Fiscal Services Director Melissa Kinzler
3. Park equipment replacements
4. Motor vehicle sales on city streets

When: Thursday, Oct. 27 at 6:30 pm
Where: Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Street North

Agenda:
County blight ordinance update
Joint Land Use Study, Commissioner Joe Briggs
Community policing officer update
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

SME Files Bankruptcy

For most folks, this is already old news. There remains though a serious concern that this is a valid filing, considering that a quorum of the SME board was not available to vote on the decision. To top it off, SME refused to seat new Beartooth Co-op board member, Arlene Boyd. After filing for bankruptcy, the board also voted to increase wholesale power rates by 20%. Beartooth is going to fight. Good for them.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of October 17, 2011

Three councils are meeting this week:

NC#5
When: Monday, Oct. 17 at 7:00 pm
Where: GF Clinic Specialty Center

Agenda:
Committee reports
Community policing officer update
Neighborhood concerns

When: Tuesday, Oct. 18 at 7:00 pm (rescheduled from Oct. 11)
Where: Meadow Lark School Library

Agenda:
Community policing officer update
RSVP update
Proposed Marketplace storage facility
Mayoral candidate, Stewart Lewin
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

When: Thursday, Oct. 20 at 6:00 pm
Where: Great Falls PreRelease, Women's Annex

Agenda:
Community policing officer update
RSVP update
Memorial Park irrigation
Mayoral candidates, Michael Winters and Stewart Lewin
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

City Work Session, Oct. 18, 2011

There is no City Work session scheduled this evening.

Thursday, October 13, 2011

City Candidate Forum

When: Monday, Oct. 17 at 6:00 pm (corrected time)
Where: MSU-COT Heritage Hall

All candidates will be present:

Mayoral candidates:
Michael Winters
Stewart Lewin

Commission Candidates:
Bill Bronson
Mary Jolley
Cyndi Baker

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of Oct. 10, 2011

Three councils are meeting this week:

NC#7
When: Monday, Oct. 10 at 7:00 pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Community Policing Officer update
Recent crime wave on North side
RSVP updates
NW Energy proposed expansion on 9th Street and 3rd Avenue South
Legislative redistricting discussion
Gibson Park Lighting update
Committee reports
Neighborhood Concerns

When: Wednesday, Oct. 12 at 7:00 pm
Where: West Elementary School cafeteria

Agenda:
West Levee update
West Bank Park update
Community policing officer update
Accessory buildings in R1 districts
Mayoral and commission candidates
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

When: Thursday, Oct. 13 at 7:00 pm
Where: GFHS, South Campus, room #105

Agenda:
Community policing officer update
RSVP update
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns


Tuesday, October 4, 2011

City Candidate Debate

When: Monday, Oct. 17 at 6:00 pm
Where: MSU-COT

Neighborhood Councils, Week of Oct. 3, 2011

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#6
When: Wednesday, Oct. 5 at 7:00 pm
Where: Sunnyside School Music Room

Agenda:
Community Policing—Officer Gange

Mayoral Candidate—Stuart Lewin
Upper River Road Storm Water—Jim Rearden, etal
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#3
When: Thursday, Oct. 6 at 7:00 pm
Where: Riverview Elementary School Library

Agenda:
Community Policing—Officer Smail

Skyline and Jaycee Park discussion
Park and Rec—Marty Basta and Giles Salyer
Leadership Great Falls
Mayoral Candidate—Michael Winters
Committee reports
Neighborhood Concerns

City Work Session, Oct. 4, 2011

When: Tuesday, Oct. 4 at 5:30 pm
Where: Civic Center, Gibson room

Agenda:
1.Downtown Great Falls Update:
* Master Plan
* CDBG Investment in Downtown

2. Special Emphasis Audit pertaining to Electric City Power

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

City Work Session, Sept. 20, 2011

When: Tuesday, Sept. 20 at 5:30 pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Mansfield Center for Performing Arts Update – Dona Hughes

Neighborhood Councils - Week of Sept. 19, 2011

Two councils meet this week:

NC#5
When: Monday, Sept. 19 at 7:00 pm
Where: GF Clinic Specialty Center

Agenda:
RSVP update
Presentation from mayoral candidate Stuart Lewin
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#4
When: Thursday, Sept. 22 at 6:30 pm
Where: Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Ave. North

Agenda:
Presentation on the Great Falls Public Schools' new anti-bullying program
Committee reports
Problem properties
Neighborhood concerns

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of Sept. 12, 2011

Four councils meet this week:

NC#7
When: Monday, Sept. 12 at 7:00 pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
RSVP update
Committee reports
Problem properties
Neighborhood concerns

NC#1
When: Tuesday, Sept. 13 at 7:00 pm
Where: Meadowlark School library

Agenda:
Info. on a proposed Marketplace storage facility
Mayoral candidates, Michael Winters and Stuart Lewin
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#2
When: Wednesday, Sept. 14 at 7:00 pm
Where: West Elementary School cafeteria

Agenda:
County Commissioner Joe Briggs-update on the Montana State Fair and a joint land use study of property around Malmstrom Air Force Base
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#8
When: Thursday, Sept. 15 at 6:00 pm
Where: Great Falls PreRelease Women's Center

Agenda:
RSVP update
Committee reports
Problem properties
Neighborhood concerns

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Work Session, Sept. 6, 2011

When: Tuesday, Sept. 6 at 5:30 pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Great Falls Emergency Services Ambulance Rates –Randy McCamley

According to this article in today's Tribune, rates could increase to nearly $1,000 a ride.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of September 5, 2011

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#6
When: Wednesday, Sept. 7 at 7:00 pm
Where: Sunnyside School music room

Agenda:
Update from Audrey Finlayson, RSVP director
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#9
When: Thursday, Sept. 8 at 7:00 pm
Where: Camp Fire Office, 1925 2nd Avenue South

Agenda:
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of August 22, 2011

One council is meeting this week.

When:  Thursday, Aug. 25 at 6:30 pm
Where: First Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Avenue North

Agenda:
City Building Official—Craig Raymond
Agri-Tech Park—Brett Doney
RSVP updates—Director Audrey Finlayson
Mayoral Candidates—Stuart Lewin & Michael Winters
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Sales Of Vehicles On Roads And Private Property

PRESS RELEASE:

DATE: July 29, 2011
CONTACT: Wendy Thomas, 406-455-8432
Deputy Director, Planning & Community Development

SALE OF VEHICLES ON ROADS AND PRIVATE PROPERTY

GREAT FALLS, Montana – The City of Great Falls Planning and Community Development Department in conjunction with the Police Department would like to remind residents that the State of Montana regulates the sale of vehicles on streets and on private property.

The Montana Code (MCA 61-4-143 and 61-8-356) states that a person may not park a motor vehicle offered or posted for sale on property in which the person does not have a legal interest, if the primary purpose is to sell the vehicle. For example, parking your vehicle, posted for sale, along the road or adjacent to a road to maximize exposure to encourage the sale of the vehicle is unlawful. However, if you have a “For Sale” sign in your car and you park the car on the road while you are enjoying a picnic at the adjacent park that is lawful.

Areas within the City have become informal “lemon lots” where people park vehicles that are for sale. Selling vehicles in a manner that does not meet state code may result in the owner receiving a written warning for the first violation and a fine of between $250 and $500 for a second violation. Violations of the state statute may be reported to the City of Great Falls Police Department by calling 771-1180 or through the City of Great Falls web site, http://www.greatfallsmt.net/people_offices/police/crimereport.php

According to Wendy Thomas, Deputy Director of Planning and Community Development, “Our goal is to ensure that people wanting to sell a vehicle know what state law requires and comply with the law. We don’t want our residents to be in a position where they find a citation on their vehicle.” For more information on the Montana Code requirements regarding vehicle sales, please contact the City Attorney’s Office, at 406-455-8535.

City Work Session, August 2, 2011

When: Tuesday, August 2 at 5:30 pm in the Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Civic Center Fa̤ade РMarv Hessler

Neighborhood Councils - Week of August 1, 2011

There are no meetings scheduled this week.

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Town Hall Meeting

When: Tuesday, August 9 at 5:30 pm
Where: Civic Center, Missouri Room

Agenda:
To discuss the parking of large motor vehicles and recreational vehicles in residential areas.

PRESS RELEASE:
The Town Hall Meeting is an opportunity for the public to ask questions and provide comments as well as share their ideas and concerns related to the parking and restricting of large motor vehicles on public right-of-ways in residential areas. At this time, no decisions have been made by the City Commission regarding this issue or the draft ordinance. At the meeting, the public will have the opportunity to learn more about the issue and the draft ordinance.

At the Town Hall Meeting, representatives from the Council of Councils will share information on the history of the issue and how it was brought to the attention of the Great Falls City Commission. The Great Falls Police Department will be present to discuss existing City ordinances relating to large motor vehicles, recreational vehicles and on-street parking. Staff from the Planning and Community Development Department will explain what requirements are needed in order to park large motor vehicles on private property and address code related questions. City staff will also review the draft large motor vehicle ordinance with the public.

For more information regarding the Town Hall Meeting, please contact Jennifer Reichelt, Deputy City Manager at 455-8417.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of July 25, 2011

MEETING CANCELED DUE TO A LACK OF QUORUM.

Only one council is meeting this week:

NC#4
When: Thursday, July 28 at 6:30 pm
Where: Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Street North

Agenda:
1. Internet safety presentation by GFPD Officer Jesse Slaughter
2. Mayoral candidate Stuart Lewin
3. Neighborhood concerns
4. Problem properties

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of July 18, 2011

No meetings are scheduled this week.

City Work Session, July 19, 2011

When: Tuesday, July 19 at 5:30 pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Budget Work Session

Saturday, July 9, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of July 11, 2011

When: Monday, July 11, 2011 at 7:00 pm
Where: Rainbow Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Downtown business concerns
Fundraiser for Gibson Park Lighting—Harvest Thunder Triathlon
Neighborhood Concerns
Gibson Park Lighting update
Problem Properties
Committee reports

NC# 9
When: Thursday, July 14, at 7:00 pm
Where: First Church of the Nazarene, 1717 2nd Avenue South 

Agenda:
Committee reports
Introduction of Planning/Community Development Deputy Director Wendy Thomas
Neighborhood Issues
Student input

The next meeting on August 11 will address problems at Great Falls High School

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of July 4, 2011

No meetings are scheduled this week.

Work Session - July 5, 2011

When: Tuesday, July 5 at 5:30 pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Budget

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

City Work Session, June 21, 2011

When: Tuesday, June 21 at 5:45 pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
1.Budget Discussion – Judge Luth
2.Skate Park Discussion – Marty Basta

Neighborhood Councils - Week of June 20, 2011

One meeting this week:

NC#4
When: Thursday, June 23 at 6:30 pm
Where: Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Avenue North

Agenda:
Update on the River's Edge Trail - Andrew Finch
Committee reports
Problem properties
Neighborhood concerns

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

June 7, 2011 Work Session

When: Tuesday, June 7 at 5:45 pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
1.Historic Preservation Advisory Commission Update – Ellen Sievert
2.Outsourcing City Website – Jon Legan
3.Building Permit Fees – Mike Haynes

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Housing Authority Board Opening

The Great Falls Housing Authority Board has one opening for a five-year term through May 31, 2016. The GFHA Board consists of seven commissioners appointed by the City Commission. The Housing Authority provides safe, decent, sanitary, and affordable housing for the community’s low income residents. They also set policy for operation and management of public housing properties; HUD-Section 8 programs, and other affordable housing programs. The Board also serves as the loan committee for the City’s Housing Rehabilitation Program. Expertise in the legal field is desired. Board meetings are held the third Thursday of each month at noon, for approximately two hours. For more information, contact Kevin Hager at 453-4311.

Applications are available at the City Manager's Office, Civic Center, Room 201, by calling 455-8450; or may be obtained from the Advisory Boards section on the City's website. Application deadline is Friday, June 10, 2011, by 5:00 p.m.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of May 30, 2011

Council of Councils:
When: Tuesday, May 31 at 7:00pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Update on the proposed Large Vehicle Parking Ordinance - Jennifer Reichelt
More info. on the tabled Disorderly Premise Ordinance - Greg Doyon
Info. on the K-9 fundraising project - Cyndi Baker and police officers

NC#6
When: Wednesday, June 1 at 7:00pm
Where: Sunnyside School music room

Agenda:
Info. on the area's water pressure and infrastructure - Public Works
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#3
When: Thursday, June 2 at 7:00pm
Where: Riverview School library

Agenda:
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#6 is also looking for a voting resident of the council area to fill a vacancy. If interested, contact Patty Cadwell at 455-8496.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Skate Park Open Discussion

When: Thursday, May 26 at 5:30pm
Where: At the skate park. In case of inclement weather, the meeting will move inside to the Girl Scout building.

Agenda:
Topics to be addressed include: 
*Graffiti
*Current safety concerns
*Possibility of opening the park to BMX bikers and skateboarders.

Everyone with an interest in the skate park is encouraged to attend.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of May 23, 2011

Only one meeting will be held this week:

NC#4
When: Thursday, May 26 at 6:30pm
Where: Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Street North

Agenda:
K-9 fundraising project - Judy Tankink
Community Policing Officer - Travis Palmer
Update on Park and Recreation activities - Patty Rearden
Update on the property located at 4727 2nd Avenue North
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

City Commission Work Session, May 17, 2011

When: Tuesday, May 17 at 6:00pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Mountain View Sports Complex – Matt Molen

Monday, May 9, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of May 9, 2011

Four councils are meeting this week:

NC#7
When: Monday, May 9 at 7:00pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Update from Community Policing Officer, Jesse Slaughter
Problem properties
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#1
When: Tuesday, May 10 at 7:00pm
Where: Meadow Lark School library

Agenda:
Info. on a fundraising project for K-9 units for the police dept.
Update from Community Policing Officer, Daniel Smith
Intro. from City Commission candidate Cyndi Baker
Proposed changes to a city ordinance governing keeping of honeybees in the city
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#2
When: Wednesday, May 11 at 7:00pm
Where: West Elementary School cafeteria

Agenda:
Intro. from Planning/Community Development Director Wendy Thomas
Update from Community Policing Officer Jeff Bragg
Info. from NeighborWorks Great Falls on the potential purchase of county parkland
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#9
When: Thursday, May 12 at 7:00pm
Where: Room 105 of the Great Falls High School South Campus

Agenda:
Info. on a fundraising project for K-9 units for the police dept.
Update from Community Policing Officer Jonathan Runner
Intro. from City Commission candidate Cyndi Baker
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

City Commission Work Session

When: Tuesday, May 3 at 5:45 pm
Where: Gibson Room

Agenda:
1.Provisionally Accredited Levee (PAL) Agreement – Mike Haynes and Charlie Sheets

2.Recreational Vehicle Discussion – Jennifer Reichelt

Neighborhood Councils - Week of May 2, 2011

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#6
When: Wednesday, May 4 at 7:00pm
Where: Sunnyside School Music Room

Agenda:
Committee reports
Community policing officer
Neighborhood concerns

NC#3
When: Thursday, May 5 at 7:00pm
Where: Riverview Elementary School Library

Agenda:
Committee reports
Community policing officer
Valleyview lot annexation and zoning
Fundraising for K-9 units
Neighborhood concerns

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of April 25, 2011

Only one council is meeting this week:

NC#4
When: Thursday, April 28 at 6:30pm
Where: Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Street North

Agenda:
School Mill Levy presentations:
KEY (Kids Education Yes)
Citizens Against Higher Taxes

School board candidate David Schuler
Committee reports
Update on the property located at 4727 2nd Avenue North
Neighborhood concerns

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

April 19, 2011 City Commission Work Session

When:  Tonight at 5:45pm
Where: Gibson Room

Agenda:
1.Propertyroom.com (disposition of property/evidence) – Chief Grove

2.Emergency Medical Dispatch Program – Chief McCamley

Chickens Back On The Agenda

Due to what appears to be a parliamentary misstep, the City Commissioners will once again be deciding the fate of the chicken ordinance at tonight's meeting.

Commissioners Burow and  Jones have indicated they will vote for the ordinance, if folks who want to raise chickens, first get permission from their neighbors. At tonight's meeting, Commissioner Bronson may give an amendment to his previously amended wording of the ordinance.

(At the April 5 meeting, the Commission voted 3-2 to not allowing chickens. Bronson and Jolley were the dissenting votes).

Neighborhood Councils - Week of April 18, 2011

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#5
When: Monday, April 18 at 7:00pm
Where: GF Clinic Specialty Center, conference room

Agenda:
School board candidates, Mary Moe and David Schuler
Info. on the upcoming school mill levy from Citizens Against Higher Taxes
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#8
When: Thursday, April 21 at 6:00pm
Where: GF PreRelease Center, women's annex

Agenda:
School board candidates, Mary Moe and David Schuler
Info. on the upcoming school mill levy from Kids Education Yes and Citizens Against Higher Taxes
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Council 8 is currently looking for a registered voter and a resident of the neighborhood to serve on the council. If interested, you may contact Patty Cadwell at 455-8496.

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Election Information

This is a general election year when folks can run for positions on the City Commission, Neighborhood Councils, and Municipal Judge.

Open positions on the City Commission are mayor, and two commissioner seats currently held by Mary Jolley and Bill Bronson. All Neighborhood Council positions are open.

For more information click here.

If you are interested in running for an office, you must complete a Declaration For Nomination and Oath of Candidacy form.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of April 11, 2011

Three councils are meeting this week:

NC#7
When: Monday, April 11 at 7:00pm
Where: Civic Center, Gibson Room

Agenda:
Info. about the school levy from KEYS (Kids Education Yes), and from Citizens Against Higher Taxes
School board candidates, Mary Moe and David Schuler

NC#1
When: Tuesday, April 12 at 7:00pm
Where: Meadow Lark School library

Agenda:
Info. about the school levy from KEYS (Kids Education Yes), and from Citizens Against Higher Taxes
School board candidates, Mary Moe and David Schuler
Update on the residential sound insulation project near the airport

NC#9
When:  Thursday, April 14 at 7:00pm
Where: Great Falls High School, South Campus, room 105

Agenda:
Info. about the school levy from KEYS (Kids Education Yes), and from Citizens Against Higher Taxes
School board candidates, Mary Moe and David Schuler
Plans for the MApril cleanup project

NC#2
When: Wednesday, April 13 - CANCELED (not enough members for a quorum)

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Urban Chickens

The City Commission will be deciding tonight whether or not to allow chickens in the city.

While I don't have any intentions of raising them, I would much prefer having a few chickens living next door to me than a barking, obnoxious dog.

This is an issue that a few malcontents have blown completely out of proportion. According to an article in Monday's Tribune, other cities in Montana have had few chicken complaints:

Helena - out of 2,510 animal complaints in 2010, 7 involved chickens; chickens running at large; roosters crowing (roosters would not be allowed in Great Falls); other animals trying to break into coops.

Bozeman - 1 chicken complaint last year; chicken got loose and was struck by a vehicle. Owner was warned for having an unrestrained chicken.

Whitefish - No formal complaints since their ordinance went into effect in 2009.

Missoula - 23 calls about chickens in 2010. They included; two calls about abandoned chickens; three calls about injured chickens; two calls about compliance; one call about neglect, and 13 calls reporting stray chickens. Their animal control director does not view chickens as a very big problem. 

It's kind of interesting that the vast majority of these calls are not unique to having chickens. What's the difference between a crowing rooster and an incessant, barking dog, or stray chickens vs. stray dogs and cats?

City Commission Work Session

When: Tuesday, April 5 at 5:45pm
Where:  Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
1. 2012 Revenue Forecast – Melissa Kinzler
2. 5-Year Financial Trends – Melissa Kinzler

Neighborhood Councils - Week of April 4, 2011

Two councils are meeting this week:
When: Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Where: Sunnyside School music room

Agenda
:
Info. from the Kids Education Yes group and Concerned Citizens
School board candidate, Mary Moe Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#3
When: Thursday, April 7 at 7:00pm
Where: Riverview School library

Agenda
:
Info. on the Great Bear Industrial Park
Info. from the Kids Education Yes group and Concerned Citizens
Info. on the North Middle School food pantry
School board candidate, Mary Moe
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Monday, March 21, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of March 21, 2011

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#5
When: Monday, March 21 at 7:00pm
Where: GF Clinic Specialty Center, conference room

Agenda:
Kids Education Yes group, speaking about a possible school levy
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#4
When: Thursday, March 24 at 7:00pm
Where: Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Street North

Agenda:
Kids Education Yes group, speaking about a possible school levy
Mary Moe, school board candidate
American Red Cross, presentation on disaster readiness
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Thursday, March 17, 2011

CITY SUES SME

On Wednesday, March 16, the city sued SME for the return of its security deposit (792,411), and is also asking Judge Kenneth Neill to rule whether or not the city's various contracts and obligations can be voided.

For more details, check this article in the Tribune and this story at KRTV.

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

ECP Power Board, Special Meeting Today

When: Today, March 15 at 9:00am
Where: Missouri Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Special meeting with SME, discussing how the city can exit from Southern.

If anyone attended this meeting, and would like to comment, please do so.

(Here is a very brief Tribune update of that meeting).

City Commission Work Session, Mar. 15, 2011

When: Tonight, March 15 at 5:30pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
1.Animal Shelter Presentations – Jennifer Reichelt [ Agenda Report ]
2.Community Development Block Grant Funding Recommendations – Community Development Council

Neighborhood Councils - Week of March 14, 2011

Only one council met this week:

NC#7
When: Monday, March 14 at 7:00pm
Where: Civic Center, Gibson Room

Agenda:
Interenet Safety Presentation - Officer Jesse Slaughter
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Monday, March 7, 2011

ECP March Meeting Is Canceled

In order to give staff more time to discuss the voluntary rate increases with B1 and B2 customers, the ECP meeting scheduled for today, March 7, has been canceled.

On Tuesday, March 1, the city sent SME a letter stating that the city wants "to be relieved of any and all obligation that exist with Southern".

For six months, the city has been requesting documents from SME relevant to allowing the city to make decisions regarding ECP. SME has not been forthcoming, citing confidentiality and proprietary information.

Citizens have been bemoaning this lack of transparency since the inception of ECP, more than 5 years ago.

How much more in tax payer dollars will it take to resolve this impasse?

Neighborhood Councils - Week of March 7, 2011

Three councils are meeting this week:

NC#1
When: Tuesday, March 8 at 7:00pm
Where: Meadowlark School Library

Agenda:
Introduction from Deputy Planning and Community Director, Wendy Thomas
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns
January 2011 minutes

NC#2
When: Wednesday, March 9 at 7:00pm
Where: West Elementary School cafeteria

Agenda:
Info. on Montana Dept. of Transportation speed study on 3rd Street Southwest
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

No link to 2011 minutes

NC#9
When: Thursday, March 10 at 7:00pm
Where: Great Falls High, South Campus

Agenda:
Info. on possible school mill levy from the Kids Education Yes group
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns
January 2011 minutes

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of February 28, 2011

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#6
When: Wednesday, March 2 at 7:00pm
Where: Sunnyside School music room

Agenda:
Great Falls gangs presentation
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns
When: Thursday, March 3 at 7:00pm
Where: Riverview School library

Agenda
:
Possible solutions for problems at Montana Avenue NW and 22nd Avenue NW
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Friday, February 25, 2011

March 1, 2011 Work Session

When: Tuesday, March 1 at 5:45pm
Where: Gibson Room

Agenda:
Independent Counsel Review 41QJ Water Rights – Steve Brown (agenda report)

City Recycling Containers Are Removed

REMOVAL OF RECYCLING CONTAINERS

The City of Great Falls has removed all of the recycling containers at the Albertson’s located at 1414 3rd St. N.W. as of February 15, 2011. Starting February 18, 2011, you will be able to access recycling bins at the City Convenience Center located at 1100 15th St. N. (The containers at the Albertson's at 10th Avenue South have also been removed).

The winter hours of operations are Friday and Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 P.M. and Sunday, Noon to 5:00 P.M. The summer hours are Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. and Sunday, Noon to 5:00 P.M. The summer hours will go into effect April 1, 2011.

We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause our customers. The City is consolidating the collection area to only one location due to rising costs, and also cleanliness concerns related to the remote sites.

If you have any questions pertaining to the recycling containers, please call 771-1401 or 454-2279.

Increased Traffic Enforcement

From: The City of Great Falls Emergency Management

This is a courtesy notice. Please be cautious drivers wherever you go. We want you to reach your destination safely!

GF Police will be heavily enforcing traffic laws at 15 St & 10 Ave So for the next 2 weeks in order to reduce crashes. This location has been identified as an area which has a high frequency of crashes.

Special ECP Board Meeting

When: Monday, Feb. 28 at 5:30pm
Where: Civic Center, Gibson Room

Agenda:
Jim Williams, Basin Creek Power Services will present his findings regarding rates.

Joint City-County Commission Meeting

When: Monday, Feb. 28 at 8:00am
Where: Cascade County Commission Chambers

Agenda:
Meet with local legislators

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of February 21, 2011

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#5
When: Monday, Feb. 21 at 7:00pm
Where: Great Falls Clinic Specialty Center, Conference Room

Agenda:
Info. on a proposed Beehive Home
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#4
When: Thursday, Feb. 24 at 6:30pm
Where: Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Street North

Agenda:
Election of officers
Gang presentation by the Great Falls Police Dept.
4727 2nd Avenue North property update
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of February 7, 2011

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#2
When: Wednesday, Feb. 9 at 7:00pm
Where: West Elementary School cafeteria

Agenda:
Info. on a new office building adjacent to Staybridge Suites
A disaster planning presentation from the American Red Cross
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#9
When: Thursday, Feb. 10 at 7:00pm
Where: Great Falls High School, South Campus, room #105

Agenda:
Election of officers
Visit from Mayor Mike Winters
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Monday, January 31, 2011

City Work Session, February 1, 2011

When: Tuesday, Feb. 1, at 5:45pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Utility Rates – Jim Rearden
Montana Biofuels Update – Gary Hebener

Neighborhood Councils - Week of January 31, 2010

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#6
When: Wednesday, Feb. 2 at 7:00pm
Where: Sunnyside School music room

Agenda:
A visit from a community policing officer
Info. on the proposed Benefis Grandview Retirement Community
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#3
When: Thursday, Feb. 3, at 7:00pm
Where: Riverview School library (location changed from the cafeteria)

Agenda:
A visit from Mayor Michael Winters
Info. on stormwater drainage issues in upper Riverview
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Neighborhood Councils - Week of January 24, 2011

Two councils are meeting this week as well as the Council of Councils:

When: Monday, Jan. 24 at 7:00pm
Where: GF Clinic Specialty Center's conference room

Agenda:
A visit from a community policing officer
Info. on the Benefis Grandview Retirement Community and the proposed Cascade Ridge Apartments
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

When: Thursday, Jan. 27 at 6:30pm
Where: Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Street North

Agenda:
A visit from a community policing officer
Info. on the Community Development Block Grant program
Intro. of the new Deputy Director of Planning/Community Development
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Council of Councils meeting:
When: Wednesday, Jan. 26 at 7:00pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
Update on large vehicles parking on city streets
Introduction from the new Deputy Director of Planning/Community Development
Discussion of past actions

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

2011 Legislation Affecting The Great Falls Area

A document prepared by the Great Falls and Cascade County Commissions.

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

City Work Session, Jan. 18, 2011

When: Tuesday, January 18 at 6:00pm
Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
West Bank Park Master Plan Update – Marty Basta

Neighborhood Councils - Week of January 17, 2011

One council is meeting this week:

NC#8
When: Thursday, January 20 at 6:00pm
Where: Pre-Release Center, Women's annex

Agenda:
A visit from a community policing officer
Committee reports
Neighborhood reports

Friday, January 14, 2011

Judges Needed

Great Falls High School and CMR are hosting the State AA Speech and Debate Tournament this year!

We need help from Great Falls! The AA State Speech and Debate meet will be held in Great Falls on January 28 and 29 with all events taking place at CMR High School.

Judges do not need prior experience as the teams will host two, one-hour judge trainings the evenings of the 25th and 27th. For those unable to attend the trainings we will have guidelines for each event at the judges check-in table.

It is going to take hundreds of judges to ensure this tournament runs smoothly. Volunteers are encouraged to sign up for multiple time slots. Food and beverages will be provided for all judges.

Online registration is recommended at http://www.talkingrustlers.com/judging.html. Those unable to register on-line can email or call GFHS Debate Coach Jolene Bach at joleneb@ruraldynamics.org or call 454.5706.

Thank you for your consideration and continued support.

State Schedule of Events
January 28, Friday, 2:15-9:30 p.m.
January 29, Saturday, 7:45 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Judge times, all times are when judges need to check into the judges table (15 mins. prior to when the actual round begins). At the judges table you will be given room assignments and ballots.

Policy Debate
Friday - Jan. 28
Round 1- 2:15 pm
Round 2 - 3:45pm
Round 3 - 5:45pm
Round 4 - 7:45pm
Saturday - Jan. 29
Round 5 - 7:45am
Octa-finals - 9:45am
Quarterfinals - 11:45am
Semifinals - 1:45pm
Finals - 3:45pm

Lincoln Douglas Debate & Public Forum Debate
Friday - Jan. 28
Round 1 - 3:45 pm
Round 2 - 5:45 pm
Round 3 - 7:45 pm
Saturday - Jan. 29
Round 4 - 7:45 am
Round 5 - 9:45 am
Octa-Finals - 11:45 am
Quarterfinals - 1:45 pm
Semifinals - 3:45 pm
Finals - 5:15 pm

Speech Events and Legislation Sessions
(Extemp draw ½ hour prior to round which equates to fifteen minutes earlier than the below times)
Friday
Round 1 - 3:45 pm
Round 2 - 5:45 pm
Round 3 - 7:45 pm
Saturday
Round 4 - 8:15 am
Round 5 - 10:15 am
Semifinals - 12:45 pm
Finals - 3:15 pm

Jolene Bach
Communications Director
Rural Dynamics Incorporated
Consumer Credit Counseling Service
406-454-5706 office
406-750-4481 cell

Monday, January 10, 2011

Parking Advisory Commission

There is an opening on the Parking Advisory Commission:

The Parking Advisory Commission has one opening to fill the remainder of a three-year term through April 30, 2012. The Commission consists of five members, appointed by the City Commission, and an ex-officio member appointed by the Business Improvement District. Experience or interest in the Great Falls Central Business District is helpful but not necessary. The Commission advises the City Commission, City Manager, and Community Development staff on matters related to parking issues within the Parking Districts. Applicants must reside within the City of Great Falls. For more information, contact Mike Haynes at 455-8433.

Applications are available at the City Manager's Office, Civic Center, Room 201, by calling 455-8450, or by using the online, fill-out, print, and mail/fax Board Opening Application which is available in PDF format. If you need the free Acrobat Reader click on the icon below. Boards and Commissions are a unique way to participate in local government.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of January 10, 2011

Four councils are meeting this week:

NC#7
When: Monday, Jan. 10 at 7:00pm
Where: Civic Center Commission chambers

Agenda:
Information on the Gibson Park lighting project
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#1
When: Tuesday, Jan. 11 at 7:00pm
Where: Meadowlark School library

Agenda:
Visit from a community policing officer
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#2
When: Wednesday, Jan. 12 at 7:00pm
Where: West Elementary School cafeteria

Agenda:
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#9
When: Thursday, Jan. 13 at 7:00pm
Where: Great Falls High School, South Campus, room 105

Agenda:
A visit from a community policing officer
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Monday, January 3, 2011

Bills Of Interest

If you are interested in tracking the progress of a bill, please email me, and I will add it to the list found on the right side of this page.

Bad Bills

Of the nearly 2,000 bill draft requests that are typically introduced in a legislative session, it's a given that many are not worth the time or paper they are printed on to pursue. Badbills.com is a website that lists the bills it considers to be bad.

Whether you agree with the picks or not, this site gives you the opportunity to find out what is being considered, and why a particular bill may not be in our best interest to pass into law.

This site is a work-in-progress, so I'm sure as time goes along, the list will grow.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of January 2, 2011

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#6
When: Wednesday, January 4 at 7:00pm
Where: Sunnyside School music room

Agenda:
Introduction from Community/Planning deputy director, Wendy Thomas
A visit from a community policing officer
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

Council six is also looking for a voting resident of the council area to fill a vacancy. Interested parties can contact Patty Cadwell at 455-8496.

NC#3
When: Thursday, January 5 at 7:00pm
Where: Riverview School cafeteria

Agenda:
Introduction from Community/Planning deputy director, Wendy Thomas
A visit from a community policing officer
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns