Missoula County publishes community council handbook; cancels July and August all-council meetings

Missoula County Lands and Communities staff announced the publication of a community council handbook and said the county will not hold all-community council meetings in July and August during the May 28 all-community council meeting.

The handbook, posted on the community council page of the Missoula County website, includes a two-page highlights sheet, full appendices and a link library. Kyla, of Lands and Communities, said the highlights are “just a 2 page quick refresher of all the things that you have heard me say many times, about the responsibility and authority as a council member.” She said the county will send one handbook to each council position and a master copy for council use during meetings.

The handbook lists required items for members including the oath of office, training, and familiarity with each council’s bylaws. Kyla reminded council representatives that operational budget request forms were sent to councils and are due by June 30. She also said the county typically cancels the July and August all-community council meetings and plans to reconvene Sept. 17; the last meeting before summer is scheduled for June 18.

Council members discussed adding a short “community bouquet” agenda item — a time to highlight positive community developments — and several members endorsed adopting it informally. Dave urged flexibility on meeting procedures but said a head nod from councils is appropriate before formally adding items. “I don't see this as a procedural issue,” Kyla said when asked about adding the bouquet to agendas.

The handbook also includes a meeting agenda template and reminders about noticing and what materials councils must send to county staff. Kyla said staff will provide more information and will circulate the handbook via email and chat.