Kalispell adopts Western Montana Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan allowing eligibility for federal disaster funding

The City of Kalispell voted Oct. 20 to adopt the 2024 Western Montana Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan, a regional blueprint for hazard mitigation policies, programs and projects that has already been approved by the state, FEMA and Flathead County.

Adoption of the plan makes the city eligible to apply for federal disaster funding tied to projects and ensures coordination between city, county and state emergency response entities, staff said. Council approved the resolution by unanimous roll call.

Mister Nygren presented the item, stating the plan had been discussed multiple times previously and that adoption would serve as the city’s blueprint for mitigation policies and would potentially allow the city to apply for federal disaster funding if an eligible event were to occur in the valley. He said the plan had state, FEMA and Flathead County approval already.

During discussion Councilor Dowd noted that some elements of such plans can prompt immediate federal agency responses but said he verified that federal agencies must coordinate with the state before taking action — a clarification he said was discussed in the work session.

Mister Nunley moved adoption of Resolution 6295; motion was seconded. Roll call was unanimous: Councilor Dowd, Councilor Dahlmann, Councilor Fisher, Councilor Hunter, Councilor Nunnally, Councilor Carlson and Mayor Johnson all voted aye and the resolution carried.

Staff said adoption aligns the city with regional mitigation priorities and maintains eligibility for federal mitigation and disaster funding programs; no immediate project approvals or funding commitments were made at the meeting.