Council reviews zoning change for affordable housing development

The Butte-Silver Bow County Council convened on February 19, 2025, for a regular meeting that focused on a proposed development and related procedural matters. The meeting began with a presentation from staff regarding the findings of facts and recommendations for a development project that aligns with both the county's comprehensive plan and the established criteria for zoning changes.

The discussion was initiated by Chief Executive Gallagher, who introduced the topic and acknowledged the staff's recommendation to approve the development. The proposal meets 14 specific criteria and aligns with seven criteria from the comprehensive plan, indicating a thorough evaluation process.

Commissioner Fisher raised a procedural concern regarding the simultaneous public hearing and introduction of Council Bill 2025-01 to the judiciary committee. He questioned the appropriateness of conducting both actions concurrently, expressing uncertainty about the potential impact on public input. Director Crane clarified that the dual approach was a procedural error on her part, stemming from past practices related to subdivision communications. She assured the council that public input would still be gathered during the hearing.

Commissioner Thatcher supported the notion that public input would be valuable, noting that the bill was only being introduced to the judiciary committee and that further public input could be solicited in subsequent meetings. County Attorney Inert confirmed that proceeding with the public hearing was acceptable since the bill had not yet been addressed by the judiciary.

Further inquiries from commissioners included questions about the location of the proposed development and the adequacy of existing infrastructure, particularly concerning water and sewer services. Director Crane responded that the area has sufficient municipal infrastructure to support the proposed development, which would potentially add six new structures to the community.

Commissioner O'Leary inquired about the notification process for the rezoning, to which Director Crane confirmed that an on-site notice had been posted, and a public hearing had been held in December, albeit with minimal attendance.

As the meeting progressed, Chief Executive Gallagher opened the public hearing for communication number 2024 or 202596, inviting proponents to voice their support for the development. The meeting underscored the council's commitment to ensuring procedural integrity while facilitating community development in alignment with established planning criteria.