Lewistown commission creates joint planning commission under state law

The City of Lewistown City Commission voted to adopt Resolution 4218 to establish a nine‑member planning commission in accordance with the Montana Land Use Planning Act.

City Manager Holly Phelps told commissioners the resolution formalizes an interlocal agreement with Fergus County that creates a board of nine members: four appointees from the city, four from the county and one representative from the conservation district. "This will consolidate our city‑county planning board and board of adjustments and add the duties of the board of adjustments," Phelps said, noting the county has already appointed its four members and the conservation district appointment is pending.

Supporters said the new commission will meet more regularly and carry out duties spelled out in state law. The city attorney explained that minutes and procedural requirements are governed by statute, and the commission would be advisory — making recommendations to the city commission rather than exercising final land‑use authority.

Commissioners asked about removal authority and governance. Phelps said the city retains the ability to remove members by majority vote and the interlocal agreement provides for county confirmation when county appointees are replaced; the new planning commission will draft its own bylaws for internal governance. The resolution includes transition language so that existing boards remain in effect until the new commission is fully appointed.

The motion to approve Resolution 4218 was made by Commissioner Robertson and seconded by Commissioner Huitt and carried on a roll call vote.

The planning commission is expected to begin appointments at an upcoming meeting; once the new commissioners are seated the city will sunset the existing city‑county boards by resolution.