Bozeman City Council plans public engagement for land use and housing policy revisions

In a recent meeting of the Kalispell Planning Commission, city officials discussed significant updates to the land use plan, emphasizing the importance of public engagement and legislative developments. As the city prepares for a new growth policy, concerns have been raised about the public's awareness of the statutory processes involved in reviewing subdivisions and site-specific projects.

One key point highlighted during the meeting was the ongoing MAID lawsuit from Bozeman, which could influence future legislative changes regarding public notice requirements. Officials noted that the legislature is currently in session and may introduce amendments that could address community concerns about transparency in planning processes.

Looking ahead, the commission is targeting August for a final draft of the new land use plan, with a public hearing and recommendations to follow. A work session is scheduled for May, focusing on housing projections—a critical aspect of the new policy that aims to better address the community's housing needs. Additional meetings may be held in the coming months to ensure thorough discussion and input on the plan.

To foster community engagement, the commission plans to host various outreach events, including open houses and pop-up sessions at local gatherings. These efforts aim to involve residents in the planning process and gather feedback on the proposed changes.

As the city moves forward, officials remain committed to keeping the public informed and involved, ensuring that the new land use plan reflects the needs and concerns of Kalispell's residents.