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Council tables resolution to accept County land for River Park amid liability and access concerns
Summary
Council tabled Resolution 415A, which would make a Valley County land donation part of Stevensville River Park, after public commenters and council members urged park-board review, liability checks and site inspection to resolve access and reversion‑clause questions.
The Stevensville Town Council voted to table Resolution 415A, a proposal to accept a county land donation and make the parcel a permanent part of Stevensville River Park, after extended public comment and council discussion.
Former Mayor Bob Michaelson and other residents urged caution, pointing to a long history of complaints about drainage and park access at the site and recommending the park board review the proposal. Commenters raised three core concerns: (1) whether the parcel had been reviewed by the park board and what design or parking changes might be needed; (2) potential liability and insurance implications — specifically whether MMIA (the Montana Municipal Interlocal Authority) had been consulted — and the cost to maintain added parkland; and (3) a possible five‑year reversion clause in the original county transfer that may affect whether the title can be held permanently by the town. One resident described steep bank erosion and limited parking that could limit public utility of the parcel.
Council members said they shared the need for additional information and suggested staff follow up with the park board, public‑works and finance staff and obtain written clarification from the county and the town attorney regarding any reversion language or MMIA liability implications. The motion to table passed by roll call. No final action was taken on the resolution at the meeting.
