The Kalispell City Council meeting on September 2, 2025, resumed after a brief recess, with public comments taking center stage. Resident Mark Topp addressed the council, expressing his concerns regarding recent planning board sessions and the handling of community feedback.

Topp, a long-time resident of Kalispell, voiced his disappointment over what he perceived as a lack of proper procedure during a recent vote concerning local development. He noted that a vote taken during the planning board session resulted in a 4 to 6 decision against a proposal, which he felt was not handled appropriately. Topp accused the council of using tactical maneuvers to delay the decision, suggesting that the absence of the developer at the meeting was a deliberate strategy to minimize community opposition.

He highlighted that the community had shown up in good faith to express their concerns, but felt that their voices were not adequately heard. Topp lamented the dwindling attendance at subsequent meetings, attributing it to a sense of frustration among residents who felt their input was disregarded. He specifically mentioned the resignation of a council member, Shelby, as a further disappointment in the process.

In his remarks, Topp also requested clarification from Council member Ryan regarding the council's ability to engage with constituents on issues of concern, particularly those related to zoning changes. He emphasized the importance of community involvement in decision-making processes, especially when it comes to developments that could impact local neighborhoods.

The meeting continued with further discussions, but Topp's comments underscored ongoing tensions between residents and the council regarding transparency and responsiveness to community needs. The council is expected to address these concerns in future sessions as they navigate the complexities of local development and community engagement.