Commissioners approve 310 permit for repairs, tree work at restaurant over Rattlesnake Creek

Missoula County commissioners approved a County 310 permit on April 9 allowing repairs and limited tree work to an existing restaurant structure at 700 East Broadway spanning Rattlesnake Creek.

Matt Heiml of Planning, Development and Sustainability presented the application, saying the work consists of replacing an existing deck and stairs and treating several large cottonwood trees that are growing next to the structure. Heiml said Fish, Wildlife & Parks and county water quality staff recommended modifying the applicant’s tree‑removal plan to leave trunks to the lower roofline to preserve habitat snags and to require plantings: "for every two cottonwood treated, two conifers would be planted in the vicinity of the project," he said.

Applicant Clayton Moore, who identified himself as co‑owner of Susett Organics, described storm damage that brought a tree onto the building and a branch that punctured the roof; he said the proposed work is intended to address safety concerns while keeping disturbance of the creekbed minimal. Moore said the crew would use booms to avoid disturbance to the stream.

A commissioner moved to approve the 310 permit subject to modifications consistent with Missoula County 310 administrative rules; another commissioner seconded the motion. The motion carried by voice vote; no roll‑call tally was recorded in the meeting transcript.

Conditions recorded in staff recommendations included leaving root structures in place, retaining some trunk height up to the lower roofline for habitat value, prohibiting disturbance of adjacent creekbank vegetation, and requiring up to 10 conifer plantings (two conifers for every two cottonwoods treated) as part of mitigation and revegetation.

Implementation: The permit is subject to review under Missoula County 310 administrative rules and staff will ensure the changes are carried out according to the approved mitigation and revegetation plans.