The Kalispell City Council convened on June 16, 2025, to address several key agenda items, primarily focusing on the establishment of special improvement districts (SIDs) for water and sewer enhancements in the Morning Star and Green Acres communities.

The meeting commenced with a discussion on the creation of SIDs, specifically Resolutions 62-58, 62-59, and 62-60, which aim to facilitate necessary improvements in these areas. City staff, led by Jared Nygren from Development Services, provided an overview of the project, highlighting that the city has secured over $3 million in grants for these improvements. However, rising construction costs may necessitate additional funding. The proposed SIDs would be funded through special assessments on the properties involved, ensuring that the financial burden does not fall on the general taxpayer.

The council unanimously approved all three resolutions, which will allow the city to proceed with the improvements. The resolutions were passed in succession, with each receiving a roll call vote confirming support from all council members present.

Following the SIDs discussion, the council moved on to authorize a continuing resolution for the fiscal year 2026 budget. This resolution allows for limited expenditures until the final budget is adopted, which is typically delayed due to the timing of state valuations. The council set a public hearing for July 7, 2025, to discuss the preliminary budget further.

The meeting also included a resolution to adjust salaries for non-union employees, incorporating a market-based pay matrix and annual step increases. This resolution aims to maintain competitive wages and was met with general support from the council. However, an amendment was proposed to remove city council members from the salary adjustments, prompting further discussion.

In summary, the Kalispell City Council's meeting on June 16 addressed critical infrastructure improvements through the establishment of special improvement districts, set the stage for the upcoming fiscal year budget, and discussed employee compensation adjustments, reflecting the council's ongoing commitment to community development and fiscal responsibility.