Neighborhood Councils - Week of March 19, 2012

Three councils are meeting this week:

NC#5
When: Monday, March 19 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Great Falls Clinic Speciality Center

Agenda:
District Court Judge Candidates:
Mike Rausch and Joe Sullivan
Legislative Redistricting—Ronda Wiggers
Complete Streets—Alicia Thompson
Committee Reports
Neighborhood Concerns
 
NC#8
When: Thursday, March 22 at 6:00 p.m.
Where: Great Falls PreRelease Center, Women's Annex
 

Agenda:
District Court Judge Candidate—Mike Rausch

Police Chief Dave Bowen

Legislative Redistricting—Ronda Wiggers

Committee Reports

Neighborhood Concerns

Council 8 is also looking for a new member. Interested parties must live within the neighborhood boundaries and be a registered voter. If interested, contact Patty Cadwell at 455-8496.

NC#4

When: Thursday, March 22 at 6:30 p.m.

Where: Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Street North

Agenda:
Community Policing Officer Slaughter

Drug Take-Back Program—Steve Bolstad
Legislative Redistricting—Ronda Wiggers
District Court Judge Candidates:
Mike Rausch and Joe Sullivan
Committee Reports
Neighborhood Concerns

Neighborhood Councils - Week of March 12, 2012

Three councils are meeting this week:

NC#7

When: Monday, March 12 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Civic Center, Gibson Room

Agenda:

District Court Judge candidate Mike Rausch

Neighborhood Watch—Tina Lopez

Complete Streets—Get Fit, Great Falls

Legislative Redistricting—Ronda Wiggers

NC Meeting Protocol—Lisa Kunz Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#1

When: Tuesday, March 13 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Meadowlark School Library

Agenda:

Complete Streets—Get Fit, Great Falls

District Court Judge candidate Mike Rausch

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#2

When: Wednesday, March 14

Where: West Elementary School Cafeteria

Agenda:

Police Chief Dave Bowen

Cascade County District Court Judge Candidates:

Mike Rausch

Joeseph Sullivan

Stephen Fagenstrom

Greg Pinski

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

Neighborhood Councils - Week of March 5, 2012

Special Meeting of NC#5

When: Wednesday, March 7 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Mountain View Elementary School Cafeteria

Agenda:To recruit residents to the Neighborhood Watch program. Representatives from the U.S. Postal Service, Great Falls Police Department, and RSVP will be present with information and resources.

An increase in vandalism in the area has prompted the Neighborhood Council to educate its residents on the benefits of having a Neighborhood Watch program.

NC#6

When: Wednesday, March 7 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Sunnyside School Music Room

Agenda:
Legislative Redistricting, Ronda Wiggers

District Court Judge candidate, Michael Rausch

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#9

When: Thursday, March 8 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: GFHS, South Campus, Room 105

Agenda:

Police Chief, Dave Bowen

District Court Judge candidate, Michael Rausch

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

City Work Session, March 6, 2012

When: Tuesday, March 6 at 5:30 p.m.

Where: Civic Center, Gibson Room

Agenda:
Water, Sewer, Storm Drain Rate Increases – Jim Rearden

2012 Governor Candidate Forum, Tonight

What: Governor Candidate Forum
When: Monday, February 27 at 6:00 p.m.
Where: Montana Expo Park, Exhibition Hall

Candidates participating:
Democrat Larry Jent, a state senator from Bozeman
Libertarian Ron Vandevender, a farmer from Craig

Republican candidates:
Bob Fanning of Pray
Rick Hill, a former congressman
Neil Livingstone of Helena, a security consultant
Jim Lynch, former Transportation Department Director
Ken Miller of Laurel, former state senator
Jim O'Hara, Chouteau County Commissioner
Corey Stapleton of Billings, former state senator

Attendees are asked to bring an item for the Great Falls Community Food Bank.

The candidates will take questions from three panelists, with Jim Sargeant of KMON Radio serving as moderator. KMON plans to broadcast the forum live. It also will be streamed live on the Internet on http://www.mfbf.org/.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of February 27, 2012

One council is meeting this week:

NC#3

When: Thursday, March 1, at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Riverview School, Multi-Purpose Room

Agenda:

Police chief, Dave Bowen

Campaign introductions: Cleve Loney, Tom Jacobson, Mike Rausch

Area projects: MT Dept. of Transportation

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

City Work Session, Feb. 21, 2012

When: Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Civic Center, Gibson Room

Agenda:
1. Update on City's Website

2. Junior Golf Program – Connie Cramer-Caouette

Neighborhood Councils - Week of February 20, 2012

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#5
When: Monday, Feb. 20 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: GF Clinic Specialty Center

Agenda:Russell Park Trail, Andrew Finch, GF Transportation planner
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

NC#4

When: Thursday, Feb. 23 at 6:30 p.m.

Where: Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Street North

Agenda:
Update from Community Policing Officer Slaughter

Committee reports

Problem properties update

Neighborhood concerns

Neighborhood Councils - Week of February 13, 2012

Three councils are meeting this week:

NC#7

When: Monday, Feb. 13 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Civic Center, Gibson Room

Agenda:
Update from Community Policing Officer Lundberg

Railroad Whistle Noise - reps from BN, MT Dept. of Transportation, GF Park and Rec.

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#1

When: Tuesday, Feb. 14 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Meadowlark School Library

Agenda:
Update from Community Policing Officer Lundberg

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#8

When: Thursday, Feb. 16 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Great Falls Transition Center, Women's Annex

Agenda:
Update from Community Policing Officer Palmer

Overlook at Black Eagle Falls

Cascade County Conservation District

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

City Work Session, February 6, 2012

When: Tuesday, Feb. 7 at 5:30 p.m.

Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
1. Police Department Generator – Greg Doyon & Chief Bowen

2. West Bank Tax Increment Refunding Bonds 2012 – Melissa Kinzler

3. Downtown Development Partnership Update – Brant Birkeland

Neighborhood Councils - Week of February 6, 2012

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC# 2
When: Wednesday, Feb. 8 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: West Elementary School Cafeteria

Agenda:
Update from Community Policing Officer Bragg
Cascade County Conservation District - Toni Nelsen
Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC# 9

When: Thursday, Feb. 9 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: GFHS, South Campus, Room 106

Agenda:
Update from Community Policing Officer Van Every

Cascade County Conservation District - Toni Nelsen

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

ECP Board Meeting, February 2012

When: February 6 at 5:30 p.m.

Where: Commission Chambers, Civic Center

Agenda:

A. FINANCIAL REPORTS

B. NEW BUSINESS

1. Accept Board Meeting Minutes from January 9, 2012

C. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS

1. Southern Montana Bankruptcy Update

D. GENERAL AND PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS

1. Public Comment

E. ECP BOARD MEETING DATES FOR CONSIDERATION

1. March 5, 2012

F. ADJOURN

Neighborhood Councils - Week of January 30, 2012

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#6

When: Wednesday, Feb. 1 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Sunnyside School Music Room

Agenda:
Community Policing Officer update

Eight Ball Inn noise

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#3

When: Thursday, Feb. 2 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Riverview School Multi-purpose Room

Agenda:
Community Policing Officer update

Traffic discussion - Jerry McKinley, City Traffic Supervisor

Riverview Storm Drainage project update

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

February 2012 SCORE Meeting

When: Thursday, Feb. 2 at noon

Where: Meadowlark Country Club

RSVP: By Jan. 31 to Gary Schlaeger at 761-4434 or gdschlaeger@yahoo.com

SCORE TO PRESENT SMALL BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES WITH RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCES

Madelyn Krezowski, representing Exergy Development Group, a multifaceted renewable energy company entrenched in wind, solar, bioenergy, geothermal and hydro will be the featured program speaker at a noon roundtable meeting of SCORE on Thursday, February 2, 2012 at the Meadowlark Country Club. Exergy's business is focused on increasing efficiencies in the renewable energy industry. They build projects that are socially beneficial, environmentally responsible and enhance economic viability in communities. Exergy is headquartered in Boise, Idaho.

SCORE counselors and business leaders from central Montana will learn about many small business opportunities that exist in the wind, solar, bioenergy, geothermal, and hydro business sectors. SCORE is sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Great Falls Chapter caters to the start-up and expansion needs of entrepreneurs within a 100 mile radius.

We encourage you to invite anyone who may be interested in working or may be able to expand their business to include the renewable energy sector to attend this February 2 noon roundtable meeting at the Meadowlark Country Club. For reservations or more information on this program, please contact me at the SCORE office 761-4434 or gdschlaeger@yahoo.com prior to Tuesday, January 31, 2012.

GARY SCHLAEGER, SCORE Chapter Chair

Council of Council's Meeting

As its name implies, the Council of Councils is a body made up of members representing each of the Neighborhood Councils. The Council of Councils meets at least once each year. Each representive shares the current goals and projects of his/her Neighborhood Council and participates in discussions of issues that impact all of the Neighborhood Councils.

When: Wednesday, January 25 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Civic Center, Gibson Room

Agenda:
Update and progress on the proposed Large Vehicle Parking Ordinance
Meet and greet the new Chief of Police, Dave Bowen
Cascade County Conservation District, proposed district expansion
Council sharing

Neighborhood Councils - Week of January 23, 2012

Only one council is meeting this week:

NC#4
When: Thursday, Jan. 26 at 6:30 p.m.

Where: Heritage Baptist Church, 900 52nd Street North

Agenda:
Election of officers

Review of bylaws

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

Community Development Council Board Opening

The City Commission is seeking one citizen interested in serving on the Community Development Council to fill the remainder of a three-year term through October 31, 2012. 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.

Applications are available at the City Manager's Office, Civic Center, Room 201, or by calling 455-8450. Application deadline is 4 p.m., Friday, January 20, 2012.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of Jan. 16, 2012

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#5

When: Monday, Jan. 16 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: GF Clinic Specialty Center

Agenda:
Election of officers

Review of bylaws

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#8
When: Thursday, Jan. 19 at 6:00 p.m.
Where: GF Transistion Center, Women's Annex

Agenda:
Election of officers
Review of bylaws
Community garden
Black Eagle Falls Overlook
Committee reports
Neighborhood concerns

City Work Session, Jan. 17, 2012

When: Tuesday, Jan. 17 at 5:30 p.m.

Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:
1. Industrial Wastewater Rates – Jim Rearden
2. City-County Health Department Update – Alisha Thompson

3. Safer Grant Application – Randy McCamley

4. Fire Rescue Exchange – Randy McCamley

ECP Board Meeting, January 2012

When: Monday, Jan. 9 at 5:30 p.m.

Where: City Commission Chambers, Civic Center

Agenda:
A. FINANCIAL REPORTS

B. NEW BUSINESS

1. Appointment of Chair and Vice Chair

2. Accept Board Meeting Minutes from December 5, 2011

C. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS

1. Southern Montana Bankruptcy Update

D. GENERAL AND PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS

1. Public Comment

E. ECP BOARD MEETING DATES FOR CONSIDERATION

1. February 6, 2012

F. ADJOURN

Neighborhood Councils - Week of January 9, 2012

Four councils are meeting this week:

NC#7

When: Monday, Jan. 9 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Civic Center, Gibson Room

Agenda:
Election of officers

Review of bylaws

Legislative redistricting discussion

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#1

When: Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Meadow Lark School Library

Agenda:

Election of officers

Review of bylaws

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#2

When: Wednesday, Jan 11 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: West Elementary School Cafeteria

Agenda:
Election of officers

Review of bylaws

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#9

When: Thursday, Jan 12 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: GFHS, South Campus, Room #106

Agenda:
Election of officers

Review of bylaws

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

Meet Your Elected Officials Open House

When: Tuesday, Jan. 3 from 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Where: Gibson Room at the Civic Center

To welcome in the New Year, the City of Great Falls will be hosting a “Meet Your Elected Officials” Open House for members of the public on Tuesday, January 3 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Gibson Room of the Civic Center (#2 Park Drive South).

This is an opportunity for residents to meet their elected City officials including the Mayor and City Commission, the Municipal Judge and Neighborhood Council members. The Open House will be held in place of the Commission’s regularly scheduled work session and light refreshments will be served.

For more information regarding Tuesday’s Open House contact Jennifer Reichelt, Deputy City Manager at 455-8417.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of January 2, 2012

Two councils are meeting this week:

NC#6

When: Wednesday, Jan. 4 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Sunnyside School Music Room

Agenda:
Election of officers

Review of bylaws

Noise complaints from the 8 Ball Inn

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#3

When: Thursday, Jan. 5 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Riverview School Multi-purpose Room

Agenda:

Election of officers

Review of bylaws

Requested closure of a portion of 6th Street N.E. by Montana Refining

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

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.

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.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of December 12, 2011

Three councils are meeting this week:

NC#7

When: Monday, Dec. 12 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Gibson Room, Civic Center

Agenda:

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#1

When: Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Meadowlark School Library

Agenda:

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#2

When: Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: West Elementary School Cafeteria

Agenda:

Drug Take Back - Steve Bolstad

Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

NC#8

Meeting canceled.

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

NC#4

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

NC#9

When: Thursday, Dec. 8 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Great Falls High, South Campus, Room #106

Agenda:
Committee reports

Neighborhood concerns

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

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.

MANSFIELD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS ADVISORY BOARD

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.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

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

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.

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.

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

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

 

NC#3

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.

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

NC#4

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.

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

NC#1

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

NC#8

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.

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

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

NC#2

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

NC#9

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

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

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

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

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

Neighborhood Councils - Week of August 22, 2011

One council is meeting this week.

NC#4

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

City Work Session, August 16, 2011

No session is scheduled this evening.

Neighborhood Councils - Week of August 15, 2011

No meetings are scheduled this week.

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 Façade – Marv Hessler

Neighborhood Councils - Week of August 1, 2011

There are no meetings scheduled this week.

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

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

Neighborhood Councils - Week of July 11, 2011

NC#7

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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)

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:

NC#6

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

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

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.

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

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

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

NC#3

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