Kalispell council approves $600,000 transfer to design a new central garage

The Kalispell City Council moved unanimously to transfer $600,000 from the general fund to the central garage fund to pay for initial design activities on a proposed new central garage facility. City staff introduced the item following the close of a public hearing in which nobody spoke.

City public works staff explained the transfer would fund initial design work and noted prior work sessions and multiple discussions. "If they so choose, the transfer would move $600,000 for initial design activities for a new central garage facility," a staff member said during the presentation. Councilor Bowden voiced support, saying the garage will save the city money by allowing equipment repairs in-house rather than outsourcing them.

The council voted on Resolution 6301 by roll-call; votes were recorded as aye across council members present and the motion carried.

Why it matters: A central garage can reduce operating costs and downtime by enabling in-house maintenance on city vehicles and equipment; the approved transfer covers design only. Council discussion noted prior budget deliberations and the project’s potential to save money over time.

Provenance: Topic introduced in the public hearing and staff presentation (SEG 295–SEG 316) with the roll-call vote concluding the item (SEG 349–SEG 366).