Monthly Archives: August 2014

The comment period for the DEQ application for a proposed “big box” store to be located south of Hamilton has been extended to October 2^nd. You can read the full story in the Star. There will be a community meeting on September 18^th, 5:30pm, at the Bitterroot River Inn followed by a meeting with the DEQ.

The economic aspects may at first look very appealing—an increase in the county tax base and more jobs/reduced unemployment, more money being spent in the Valley from the increased payroll. Less appealing is what would undoubtedly follow.

Commissioners Vote for Fair Levy, Eliminate Fair Expenses in General Fund
to Add Funny Money to County Coffers

After passing a levy (not time limited so far as I can see) to pay for lawsuits, Commissioner Chilcott stated the county budget was still bare bones and the only expense left to cut was employees. To most residents, that is a no-brainer—cut the number of commissioners from 5 to 3. The commissioners responded to public outcry and moved to put it on the November ballot. But, alas, they were unaware of Montana Code Annotated time restraints so were unable to proceed.