Cascade County Board of Health backs higher state license fees for food and lodging establishments

The Cascade City-County Board of Health on Oct. 12, 2025, approved Resolution 25-01 urging the state legislature to increase statutory license fees for licensed establishments including food service, hotels, motels, campgrounds, trailer courts and public pools. The motion passed by the five voting members present.

Abigail, a public health staff member who presented the packet to the board, told members the state fee schedule for licensed establishments has not been increased since 2009 and that local property tax currently covers the majority of program costs for inspection and enforcement. She summarized state data showing roughly 75% of program expenses tied to license inspections are covered by local property tax, about 17% by state fees, and about 8% by local program fees such as plan-review and temporary-permit charges.

The resolution directs the board to support legislation that would adjust the statutory fee schedule so larger establishments bear a greater share of license-related costs while limiting burden on small businesses. Abigail described a proposed structure that would classify establishments as small, medium, large or mobile and raise fees proportionally so larger operations pay more; she emphasized the draft in the packet was not final.

Commissioner Bridal, who moved the resolution, said, “I’d like to also add that I think it’s important to make these programs more self supporting instead of relying on the taxpayers. So I’m really glad to see this resolution.” Heather seconded the motion. Chair Commissioner Briggs called for public comment; none was raised. The board recorded the motion as carried.

Abigail told the board she and partners at the Montana Environmental Health Association and the Montana Public Health Association are asking local operators to provide input to inform final language, and she asked board members to share known businesses that might be affected. The board discussed using the resolution as a standing position so a board member or designee can testify to the legislature under the board’s authority if a matching bill is introduced.

The board signaled this is the first of several quick-turnaround meetings intended to prepare general position statements for issues expected this legislative session. Staff said the fee-resolution language is intended to remain broad so it still applies if actual bill numbers or text change during the session.