A question from the audience at a Missoula candidate forum on Oct. 16 asked whether candidates would commit to finding government funding for a tenants' right-to-counsel program. Most candidates answered “yes,” but several emphasized uncertainty about where the money should come from.

“I absolutely support a tenant’s right to counsel and I absolutely think that the government should be a part of making that happen,” said Sandra Mesica, a Ward 2 incumbent. Kristen Jordan, a Ward 6 incumbent, said the affordable housing trust fund could be a source for a dedicated line item to support counsel for low-income tenants.

Other candidates said the city should explore multiple funding strategies. Justin Pontiff recommended diversifying funding sources—government, private grants and philanthropic support—to avoid a program that could vanish if a single grant expires. Mike Nugent pointed to large-scale bonds as an option; David Portrazzi urged redirecting funds currently used for private security and code enforcement toward tenant services.

Opposition to taxpayer funding was limited but vocal. One candidate said they supported the concept but did not favor funding it through property-tax increases or the general fund; that candidate suggested granting to a nonprofit as an alternative to a city-employed counsel to reduce the risk of state-level pushback.

Clarifying details: Candidates repeatedly cautioned that the city’s general fund is limited and suggested alternatives including the affordable housing trust fund, one-time bond measures and public–private partnerships. No candidate provided a finalized budget line or an adopted funding mechanism at the forum.

Ending: Several candidates urged continued dialogue with tenant advocates to design a sustainable funding plan if elected.