Proposed amendment suggests reducing Butte Silver Bow commissioners to six part-time roles

In a recent meeting of the Butte-Silver Bow Study Commission, a proposal to restructure the local government was put forward, aiming to enhance efficiency and community engagement. The suggestion, made by a commission member, advocates for reducing the number of commissioners from the current count to six part-time positions, alongside a full-time council chair. This change is intended to address both coverage and cost concerns while ensuring that elected officials remain accessible to their constituents.

The proposal emphasizes that part-time commissioners would be required to dedicate at least one designated half-day each week to their office, allowing them to engage directly with the community. The idea is to foster better communication and understanding of local issues, moving away from the current practice of public hearings that often occur after decisions are made. Instead, the proposal suggests holding listening sessions prior to council meetings to gather public input and build consensus.

During the discussion, questions arose regarding the rationale behind having part-time rather than full-time commissioners. The proponent argued that a single full-time council chair could effectively coordinate with part-time commissioners, ensuring that they are well-informed and prepared for meetings. This structure aims to streamline operations and reduce costs, as the proponent believes there is insufficient work to justify multiple full-time positions.

Another significant aspect of the proposal is the call for the chief executive officer (CEO) position to be filled by someone with city manager qualifications and experience. This change is seen as a way to establish checks and balances within the local government, ensuring that the CEO can effectively manage operations while the council chair serves as a representative of the community.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further consider these proposals, which could reshape the governance of Butte-Silver Bow. As the community awaits the outcome, the discussions highlight a growing desire for more effective representation and engagement in local government. The next steps will involve evaluating the feasibility of these changes and their potential impact on residents' daily lives.