City Council Agenda
Regular MeetingKalispell, MT · November 3, 2025
Agenda
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
November 3, 2025, 7:00 P.M.
City Hall Council Chambers, 201 First Avenue East
See the bottom of the agenda to learn how to provide public comment
and watch meetings live or later.
A. CALL TO ORDER
B. ROLL CALL
C. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
D. AGENDA APPROVAL
E. CONSENT AGENDA
All items on the consent agenda will be voted on with one motion. If a council member
desires to discuss an item separately, the item can be removed from the consent agenda
by motion.
1. Council Minutes – October 6, October 13, and October 20, 2025
F. COMMITTEE REPORTS
G. PUBLIC COMMENT
Persons wishing to address the council on any issue not on the agenda are asked to do so
at this time. See the bottom of the agenda for the protocol for providing comment.
H. REPORTS, RECOMMENDATIONS, AND COUNCIL ACTION
1) Resolution 6298, Flathead County Public Safety Facility Annexation and Zoning
This resolution considers annexation and initial zoning of P-1 (Public) for 33.5 acres at
225 Snowline Lane.
I. CITY MANAGER, COUNCIL, AND MAYOR REPORTS (No Action)
J. ADJOURNMENT
UPCOMING SCHEDULE
Next Work Session – November 10, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. – Council Chambers
City Offices Closed – November 11, 2025 – Veterans Day
Next Regular Meeting – November 17, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. – Council Chambers
Kalispell City Council Agenda, November 3, 2025
PARTICIPATION
Those addressing the council are asked to give their name and address for the record. See the last
page of the agenda for how to address Council and limit comments to three minutes. Comments
can also be emailed to publiccomment@kalispell.com.
To provide public comment live, remotely, join the video conference through zoom at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jx7cNbyNRLeT65-kv28ZyA.
Raise your virtual hand to indicate you want to provide comment. Due to occasional technical
difficulties, the most reliable way to participate is through in-person attendance. Electronic
means are not guaranteed.
Watch council sessions live with the agenda and supporting documents or later with documents
and time stamped minutes at: https://www.kalispell.com/MeetingVideos or live or later on
YouTube at: www.kalispell.com/YouTube.
The City does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its programs, services, activities, and
employment practices. Auxiliary aids are available. For questions about disability
accommodation please contact the City Clerk at 406-758-7756, or cityclerk@kalispell.com.
ADMINISTRATIVE CODE – Section 2-20 Manner of Addressing Council
a. Each person not a Council member shall address the Council at the time designated in the agenda
or as directed by the Council, by stepping to the podium or microphone, giving that person’s
name and address in an audible tone of voice for the record, and unless further time is granted by
the Council, shall limit the address to the Council to three minutes.
b. All remarks shall be addressed to the Council as a body and not to any member of the Council or
staff.
c. No person, other than the Council and the person having the floor, shall be permitted to enter into
any discussion either directly or through a member of the Council, without the permission of the
presiding officer.
d. No question shall be asked of individuals except through the Presiding Officer.
PRINCIPLES FOR CIVIC DIALOGUE – Adopted by Resolution 5180
• We provide a safe environment where individual perspectives are respected, heard, and
acknowledged.
• We are responsible for respectful and courteous dialogue and participation.
• We respect diverse opinions as a means to find solutions based on common ground.
• We encourage and value broad community participation.
• We encourage creative approaches to engage in public participation.
• We value informed decision-making and take personal responsibility to educate and be educated.
• We believe that respectful public dialogue fosters healthy community relationships,
understanding, and problem solving.
• We acknowledge, consider, and respect the natural tensions created by collaboration, change, and
transition.
• We follow the rules and guidelines established for each meeting.
Page 2 of 2
CITY COUNCIL DRAFT MEETING MINUTES
October 6, 2025, 7:00 P.M.
City Hall Council Chambers, 201 First Avenue East
Video of this meeting with time stamped minutes can be found at:
https://www.kalispell.com/MeetingVideos.
A. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Johnson called the meeting to order at 7 p.m.
B. ROLL CALL
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Present
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Absent
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Present
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Present
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Absent
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Present
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Present
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Present
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Present
Staff present included Interim City Manager and Development Services Director Jarod Nygren,
City Attorney Johnna Preble, City Clerk Aimee Brunckhorst, Assistant Director of Development
Services P.J. Sorensen, Fire Chief Jay Hagen, and Police Chief Jordan Venezio.
C. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
D. AGENDA APPROVAL
Motion and vote to approve the agenda as published.
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Motion
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: 2nd
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Approve
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Absent
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Approve
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Approve
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Absent
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Approve
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Approve
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Approve
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Approve
The motion passed unanimously on voice vote with Council Members Graham and Gabriel
absent.
Kalispell City Council Minutes, October 6, 2025
E. CONSENT AGENDA
All items on the consent agenda will be voted on with one motion. If a council member
desires to discuss an item separately, the item can be removed from the consent agenda
by motion.
1. Council Minutes – September 2, September 8, and September 15, 2025
2. Bid Award for Lift Station 36 Upgrade Project
This item considers awarding this project to Strods Contracting in the amount of
$3,099,048.
3. Approve Flathead Valley Hockey Association Use Agreement
This item considers approving a new version of this expired agreement.
4. Agreement Amendment for Emerging Contaminant Professional Services for Water
Source Replacements and or Treatment Alternatives
This item considers an amendment to the agreement with Robert Peccia & Associates for
this project to support design completion, coordination and construction management
services.
5. Confirmation of Nine Firefighter/Medics
This item considers confirming Sidney Becker, Jon Hageness, Seager Higgins, Mitch
Kline, Jessica Lyles, Jeremy Odio, Vinny Thompson, Ian Whalen, and Michael Martinez
as Kalispell Firefighters as they have completed their one-year probationary employment
period.
Public Comment
Mayor Johnson opened public comment on the consent agenda. Seeing none, he closed public
comment.
00:02:41 Motion and Vote to approve the consent agenda as presented.
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Motion
Council Member - Jed Fisher: 2nd
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Approve
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Absent
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Approve
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Approve
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Absent
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Approve
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Approve
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Approve
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Approve
The motion passed unanimously on voice vote with Council Members Gabriel and Graham
absent.
Page 2 of 6
Kalispell City Council Minutes, October 6, 2025
00:03:13 Fire Chief Jay Hagen presented newly appointed firefighters speaking about each one.
From left to right they are Mitch Cline, Sydney Becker, Ian Whalen, Jon Hageness, Jessica Lyles,
Vinny Thompson, Jeremy Odio (absent Michael Martinez), and Seagar Higgins.
00:06:42 Mayor Mark Johnson binned badges on the newly confirmed firefighters.
00:10:30 Mitch Cline spoke on behalf of the class saying they believe working with each other
and for the community of Kalispell is the best job they could have.
F. COMMITTEE REPORTS – None.
G. PUBLIC COMMENT
Mayor Johnson opened public comment. Seeing none, Mayor Johnson closed public comment.
Public comment received in writing to the Mayor and Council can be seen at
www.kalispell.com/publiccomment.
Seeing no further comments, Mayor Johnson closed public comment.
H. REPORTS, RECOMMENDATIONS, AND COUNCIL ACTION
1) Ordinance 1946 – First Reading – Eave Encroachment Zoning Text Amendment
This ordinance considers a zoning text amendment to allow residential eaves to extend up
to two feet into setback areas.
Interim City Manager Jarod Nygren provided the staff report.
00:17:38 Mayor Johnson asked questions related to venting.
00:17:55 Council Member Nunnally asked about the frequency of this request from developers.
00:18:42 Peter Hayden, Public Comment
Peter Hayden, representing Hayden Homes the applicant spoke in favor of this amendment
explaining multiple reasons why he believes this amendment would bring meaningful benefits to
the Kalispell community. He spoke regarding alignment with international codes, streamlining
the process, promoting good design and housing availability, and allowing for more attractive
and livable neighborhoods, and benefits to housing affordability.
00:20:55 Mark Freidline, Public Comment
Freidline with the Flathead Building Association spoke in favor of this amendment providing
reasons including consistency across the state, flexibility of design, and maximizing space thus
helping with affordability.
00:22:23 Seeing no further comments, Mayor Johnson closed public comment.
Page 3 of 6
Kalispell City Council Minutes, October 6, 2025
00:22:32 Motion to adopt Ordinance 1946, an ordinance amending the Kalispell Zoning
Ordinance no. 1677, by amending Sections 27.04, 27.05, 27.06, 27.07 and 27.08, Residential
Setback, Eaves; adding Section 27.20.093, Setback Encroachment for Eaves; and amending
definitions Section 27.37.010(177), Setback, to amend how setbacks are applied to a
structure’s eaves in residential zones and declaring an effective date.
Council Member – Ryan Hunter: Motion
Council Member – Sam Nunnally: 2nd
00:23:50 Council Member Hunter provided discussion on the motion.
00:24:33 Mayor Johnson provided discussion on the motion.
Vote on the motion.
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Motion
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: 2nd
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Approve
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Absent
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Approve
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Approve
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Absent
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Approve
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Approve
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Approve
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Approve
The motion passed unanimously on roll call vote with Council Members Graham and
Gabriel absent.
2) Resolution 6294 – Police and Fire Impact Fee Reports and Fees
This resolution considers adopting these reports and fees including removal of the
administration fee and the addition of a price index annual increase per SB 133.
Interim City Manager Jarod Nygren provided the staff report.
00:27:22 Public Comment
Mayor Johnson opened public comment. Seeing none, he closed public comment.
00:27:35 Motion to approve Resolution 6294, a resolution amending Resolution Nos. 5744
and 5745 to accept and adopt the September 2025 Police and Fire Impact Fee Reports as
findings of fact and to adjust the police and fire impact fee schedules pursuant to council
approval.
Council Member – Sid Daoud: Motion
Council Member – Jed Fisher: 2nd
00:28:09 Council Member Daoud provided discussion in favor of the motion.
00:28:42 Council Member Hunter provided discussion in opposition to the motion.
Page 4 of 6
Kalispell City Council Minutes, October 6, 2025
00:29:55 Council Member Daoud provided further discussion on the motion.
00:30:14 Mayor Johnson provided discussion on the motion.
Vote on the motion.
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Motion
Council Member - Jed Fisher: 2nd
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Approve
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Absent
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Approve
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Approve
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Absent
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Approve
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Approve
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Approve
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Disapprove
The motion passed 6-1 on roll call vote with Council Members Daoud, Fisher, Carlson,
Nunnally, Fisher and Dahlman in favor, Council Member Hunter opposed, and Council
Members Gabriel and Graham absent.
3) Appointment to the Tourism Business Improvement District Board
This item considers an appointment to this board.
Mayor Johnson appointed Nathan Black to the Tourism Business Improvement District Board.
Motion and Vote to approve the appointment of Nathan Black to the Tourism Business
Improvement District Board.
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Motion
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: 2nd
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Approve
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Approve
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Approve
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Approve
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Approve
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Approve
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Approve
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Approve
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Approve
The motion passed unanimously on voice vote with Council Members Gabriel and Graham
absent.
I. CITY MANAGER, COUNCIL, AND MAYOR REPORTS (No Action)
Interim City Manager Jarod Nygren provided the following report:
• Next week’s work session will include discussion on the Hazard Mitigation Plan.
• The City received a Safe Streets for All Demonstration Grant for East Oregon. Staff is
continuing to work with Federal Highways on that but there have been many changes to
Page 5 of 6
Kalispell City Council Minutes, October 6, 2025
the program. Discussion on the agreement will be included in an upcoming work session
to be determined. Since the project is extensive, staff plan on notifying and inviting the
neighborhood to that work session.
• The Planning Commission is looking at text amendments related to Conditional Use
Permits and enforcement. That item will be upcoming.
00:35:55 Council Member Daoud spoke regarding recent discussions with people in the
downtown area who are complaining that the noise and problems with cruising are still
occurring. He asked staff for a report regarding tickets Kalispell Police have issued in the core
area from 7pm to 11pm on Friday evenings so we can track if we are addressing this problem.
Staff agreed to pull information for Council Member Daoud.
00:37:53 Council Member Hunter spoke regarding a conversation he had with the Flathead
Builders Association regarding the letter that they had sent and his assumption regarding political
timing. He learned that was not the intention and it was a well-intended letter.
00:38:31 Mayor Johnson spoke regarding wanting builders and developers to talk with Council
about issues.
00:39:11
J. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Johnson adjourned the meeting at 7:38 p.m.
______________________________________
Aimee Brunckhorst, City Clerk
Minutes approved on
UPCOMING SCHEDULE
Next Work Session – October 13, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. – Council Chambers
Next Regular Meeting –October 20, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. – Council Chambers
PARTICIPATION
Watch council sessions live with the agenda and supporting documents or later with documents
and time stamped minutes at: https://www.kalispell.com/MeetingVideos or live or later on
YouTube at: www.kalispell.com/YouTube.
The City does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its programs, services, activities, and
employment practices. Auxiliary aids are available. For questions about disability
accommodation please contact the City Clerk at 406-758-7756, or cityclerk@kalispell.com.
Page 6 of 6
CITY COUNCIL
DRAFT WORK SESSION MINUTES
October 13, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
City Hall Council Chambers, 201 First Avenue East
Video of this meeting with time stamped minutes can be found at:
https://www.kalispell.com/MeetingVideos.
A. CALL TO ORDER
B. ROLL CALL
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Present
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Absent
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Present
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Absent
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Present
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Present
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Present
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Absent
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Present
City staff present included Interim City Manager and Development Services Director Jarod
Nygren and Deputy City Clerk Judi Funk.
C. DISCUSSION
1. Hazard Mitigation Plan
Interim City Manager and Development Services Director Jarod Nygren presented the staff
report.
Juanita Nelson, Emergency Management Planner for the Flathead County Office of Emergency
Services was present via video conference for questions.
00:04:14 Mayor Johnson asked Planner Nelson for a brief update on changes made.
00:04:26 Nelson explained that some of the blanks within the tables on E41 through E43 have
been filled in, but there are still inconsistencies. She reported that there is an upcoming Western
Regional Workshop scheduled at the Flathead National Forest Supervisor’s office on November
14, 2025. Some of the updates can be made to the plan at that point as part of the annual review.
She explained that municipalities have until November 14 to adopt the plan and still be eligible
to apply for mitigation grant funding unless the municipality does their own plan. Annual
updates can be made, and changes can be made then. If substantial changes were made, the
municipalities would need to re-adopt the plan.
Page 1 of 4
Kalispell City Council Agenda, October 13, 2025
00:06:13 Council Member Fisher said that the plan was well written and educational. He then
asked about the areas that are not within the plan.
00:06:59 Nelson answered questions explaining that three counties decided not to participate in
these regional plans including Missoula and Gallatin Counties as they were already through a
substantial portion on their own when the regional plans began. Wheatland County did not have
a coordinator so did not participate. All of the other counties have been involved.
Council Member Fisher continued questions about adoption of the plan by other municipalities.
00:08:31 Council Member Fisher asked about updates learning that the plan will expire in
November of 2029.
00:08:57 Council Member Graham asked about more frequent changes and the process that
would then be utilized.
00:09:59 Council Member Daoud talked about provisions for Federal Agencies and asked how
coordination with the state and local municipality would happen.
00:10:43 Mayor Johnson asked about the role of Flathead County within the plan.
00:12:03 Council Member Daoud spoke in appreciation for additional time to read and process
this large plan.
00:12:33 Nelson spoke regarding discussions on updates and corrections that need to be made.
00:13:14 Council Member Hunter spoke to the importance of a comprehensive mitigation plan
despite corrections needed in the annual update process.
00:13:52 Mayor Johnson spoke to the need for adoption prior to the deadline, and that the plan
should be a working plan with changes made as needed. He confirmed that the general consensus
is to move forward with a vote at the next regular meeting.
00:15:44 Nygren spoke to the document as important to long-use planning and knowing what
some of our vulnerabilities are. He spoke regarding partnering with the County as things are
progressing.
00:16:17 Planner Nelson explained that projects can be added as needed at any time explaining it
is a living document.
Mayor Johnson thanked Juanita Nelson for joining the discussion.
D. PUBLIC COMMENT
00:17:24 Paula McDowell, Public Comment
McDowell of 205 Meadow Vista Loop talked about her expectation of installation of a roadway
tabletop on the east side of Kidsports on Meadow Vista Loop. She said huge trucks are coming
down the road at high speeds and she worries they will crash into bedrooms. She said they slow
down for the flashing lights but then speed up again. She said she was passed in a no-passing
Page 2 of 4
Kalispell City Council Agenda, October 13, 2025
zone and relayed other stories about worries about traffic in the area. She thanked the City for the
trail being installed but feels something awful will happen there. She said she will encourage the
neighborhood to call the police when they see speeders.
Seeing no further comments, Mayor Johnson closed public comment.
Written public comment to the Mayor and Council available at
www.kalispell.com/publiccomment.
E. CITY MANAGER, COUNCIL, AND MAYOR REPORTS
Interim City Manager Jarod Nygren provided the following reports:
• On Friday, November 14, 2025, from 10am to 3pm at 650 Wolfpack Way in Kalispell, an
annual MT Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan workshop session will be held. He will
forward to Council and will plan to attend.
• An action item regarding consideration of transfer of the property to the Northwest
Montana History Museum will be included at the next meeting.
• A report on traffic and police enforcement on Main Street on Friday evenings will be
included in the City Manager report on Friday.
• Nygren provided a reminder to be cautious of clicking links that could be cyber phishing
attempts and to notify staff if that does happen so proper precautions can be taken.
00:23:44 Council Member Graham spoke regarding public comment provided tonight about
speeding along Kidsports. He asked if it was possible to treat that area as a school zone.
00:24:27 Interim Manager Nygren said he would look into that explaining that Montana
Department of Transportation would likely need to be involved. He will report back.
Council Member Graham spoke further about the possibility of school zone speed limits in that
area, and of his views regarding speedbumps and roadway tabletops.
00:25:53 Council Member Hunter spoke to safety concerns with widening roads or adding turn
lanes mentioning discussion around Four Mile during the adoption of the Transportation Plan.
00:26:46 Council Member Hunter spoke to a public comment received related to concerns
regarding insurance costs and flooding in the valley, and what a major flood might mean. He
spoke regarding the public comment referring to encouraging participation in the rating system.
00:27:31 Nygren explained it was analyzed in the past when the County became part of the
community rating system. It would take significant staff time to participate with very little
property within City limits that is within the floodplain.
00:29:05 Mayor Johnson asked about the status of water on Main Street referring to comments
made.
Page 3 of 4
Kalispell City Council Agenda, October 13, 2025
00:29:12 Interim City Manager Nygren explained there is water on Main Street with adequate
pressure and flow. The issue is that fire suppression service on the west side of Main Street
requires tapping into the main on the east side and costs can be prohibitive. He talked further
about possible solutions and the costs associated for business owners.
00:31:59 Mayor Johnson talked about his experiences with seeing excessive speeding happening
on narrow roads and talked about the importance of driver responsibility and drivers having basic
consideration of your neighbors and the community.
F. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Johnson adjourned the meeting at 7:33 p.m.
______________________________
Aimee Brunckhorst, City Clerk
Minutes approved on
UPCOMING SCHEDULE
Next Regular Meeting – October 20, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. – Council Chambers
Next Work Session – October 27, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. – Council Chambers
PARTICIPATION
Watch council sessions live with the agenda and supporting documents or later with documents
and time stamped minutes at: https://www.kalispell.com/MeetingVideos or live or later on
YouTube at: www.kalispell.com/YouTube.
The City does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its programs, services, activities, and
employment practices. Auxiliary aids are available. For questions about disability
accommodation please contact the City Clerk at 406-758-7756.
Page 4 of 4
CITY COUNCIL DRAFT MEETING MINUTES
October 20, 2025, 7:00 P.M.
City Hall Council Chambers, 201 First Avenue East
Video of this meeting with time stamped minutes can be found at:
https://www.kalispell.com/MeetingVideos.
A. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Johnson called the meeting to order at 7 p.m.
B. ROLL CALL
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Present
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Absent
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Present
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Present
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Absent
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Present
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Present
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Present
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Present
Staff present included Interim City Manager and Development Services Director Jarod Nygren,
City Attorney Johnna Preble, City Clerk Aimee Brunckhorst, Assistant Director of Development
Services P.J. Sorensen, Finance Director Aimee Cooke, Public Works Director Susie Turner, and
Police Chief Jordan Venezio.
C. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
D. AGENDA APPROVAL
Motion and Vote to approve the agenda as published.
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Motion
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: 2nd
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Approve
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Absent
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Approve
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Approve
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Absent
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Approve
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Approve
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Approve
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Approve
Kalispell City Council Minutes, October 20, 2025
The motion passed unanimously on voice vote with Council Members Gabriel and Graham
absent.
E. CONSENT AGENDA
All items on the consent agenda will be voted on with one motion. If a council member
desires to discuss an item separately, the item can be removed from the consent agenda
by motion.
1. Ordinance 1946 – Second Reading – Zoning Text Amendment
This is the second reading of an ordinance which allows residential eaves to extend up to two
feet into setback areas.
2. Award Dump Truck and Plow
This item awards the bid for a new Tandem Axle Truck Chassis to Missoula IState Truck
Center in the amount of $239,995.00.
3. Award Leaf Vacuum Trailer
This item awards the bid for a new 20 Cubic Yard Leaf Vac Trailer to NorMont Equipment Co.
in the amount of $179,520.00.
4. Award Lower Zone Storage Tank 2 Project
This item awards the bid for the Lower Zone Storage Tank Replacement Reservoir 2 to
Preload LLC in the amount of $7,040,000.00.
Public Comment
Mayor Johnson opened public comment on the consent agenda. Seeing none, he closed public
comment.
00:03:06 Motion and Vote to approve the consent agenda as presented.
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Motion
Council Member - Jed Fisher: 2nd
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Approve
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Absent
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Approve
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Approve
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Absent
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Approve
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Approve
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Approve
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Approve
The motion passed unanimously on roll call vote with Council Members Gabriel and
Graham absent.
F. COMMITTEE REPORTS – None.
G. PUBLIC COMMENT
Mayor Johnson opened public comment.
Page 2 of 8
Kalispell City Council Minutes, October 20, 2025
00:03:50 Rose Askvig, Public Comment
Ms. Askvig spoke regarding texting and talking with Ray at the Warming Center regarding
concerns she has about incoming people and loitering and wanting to know when a
neighborhood meeting would be. She then sent three pictures via text of people loitering to Ray
at the Warming Center on Friday and stated she had not heard back yet.
00:05:37 Kindee Nelson, Public Comment
Ms. Nelson stated that she has not been notified of a neighborhood meeting yet by the Warming
Center.
Seeing no further comments, Mayor Johnson closed public comment.
Public comment received in writing to the Mayor and Council can be seen at
www.kalispell.com/publiccomment.
H. PUBLIC HEARING – None.
I. REPORTS, RECOMMENDATIONS, AND COUNCIL ACTION
1) Resolution 6295 – Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan
This item considers adoption of the Western Montana Region Hazard Mitigation Plan,
previously approved by the State, FEMA, and Flathead County.
Interim City Manager Jarod Nygren provided the staff report.
00:07:37 Public Comment
Mayor Johnson opened public comment. Seeing none, he closed public comment.
00:07:49 Motion to approve Resolution 6295, a resolution adopting the 2024 Western
Montana Region Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Council Member – Sandy Carlson: Motion
Council Member – Sam Nunnally: 2nd
00:08:21 Council Member Daoud provided discussion on the motion.
Vote on the motion.
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Motion
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: 2nd
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Approve
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Absent
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Approve
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Approve
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Absent
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Approve
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Approve
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Approve
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Approve
Page 3 of 8
Kalispell City Council Minutes, October 20, 2025
The motion passed unanimously on roll call vote with Council Members Gabriel and
Graham absent.
2) Resolution 6296 – Central School Ownership Transfer to Northwest Montana History
Museum
This item authorizes the City Manager to execute all documents necessary to effectuate the
sale of the Central School to the Northwest Montana History Museum with certain
conditions.
Interim City Manager Jarod Nygren provided the staff report.
00:11:13 Council Member Hunter asked questions related to the conditions wanting to add
remodeling as a condition for which the museum would need to come back before Council.
00:12:55 Public Comment
Mayor Johnson opened public comment.
00:13:03 Karlene Osorio-Khor, Public Comment
Osorio-Khor owner and manager of LaLark LLC spoke to her past experience years ago on the
Save Central School Committee, naming other participants, talking about their mission, and
events they held. She spoke to the need for this property to remain as a museum and to continue
to be kept up.
00:16:39 Margaret Davis, Public Comment
Davis, Director of the NW Montana History Museum, thanked the city for the opportunity and
talked about the importance of the history of the museum and education. She asked for an ADA
access ramp easement and their desire to have parking spaces along the alleyway. She then spoke
regarding the possibility of a stand-alone archival building and other considerations she would
like to see in the agreement.
00:19:27 Jim Atkinson, Public Comment
Atkinson spoke in favor of the transfer and talked regarding voting in favor of the Museum when
on City Council and currently volunteering at the museum to catalog artifacts. He spoke about
his love of volunteering there, and the dedication of the staff to educating the public.
00:21:03 A.J. King, Public Comment
King reminded everyone that his great grandfather Eugene Steere was the first principal of
Central School. King is 4th generation with 5 and 6 in the community. They would like to
preserve the museum as much as they can and appreciate the opportunity.
Seeing no further comments, Mayor Johnson closed public comment.
00:22:43 Motion to approve Resolution 6296, a resolution approving the sale of certain real
property commonly known as the Central School to the Northwest Montana History
Museum.
Page 4 of 8
Kalispell City Council Minutes, October 20, 2025
00:23:09 Council Member Nunnally asked questions related to ADA access and the parking
spots.
Interim Manager Nygren explained that all public parking spots would remain in city ownership,
including the alley.
00:23:40 Council Member Hunter provided discussion on an amendment he subsequently made.
00:24:23 Motion to amend the final whereas #8, so it reads, “Any future/and or expansion
of the building footprint or renovation that may impact the historic features of the building
require Council approval.
Council Member – Ryan Hunter: Motion
The amendment to the motion died for lack of a second.
00:25:06 Council Member Daoud read some of the conditions within the resolution for the
benefit of the public.
00:26:28 Council Member Carlson spoke in support of the motion.
00:26:47 Mayor Mark Johnson spoke in support of the motion.
00:27:53 Vote on the motion.
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Motion
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: 2nd
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Approve
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Absent
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Approve
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Approve
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Absent
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Approve
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Approve
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Approve
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Approve
The motion passed unanimously on roll call vote with Council Members Gabriel and
Graham absent.
Director Nygren explained that staff will work on the agreements and documents that will need
to be finalized with the Museum to complete the transfer.
3) Aspen Creek West Phase 1 Final Plat, Subdivision Improvement Agreement, and
Memorandum of Understanding
This item considers final plat approval, a subdivision improvement agreement, and a
memorandum of understanding for this 15.02-acre phase that includes 52 residential lots
off of Three Mile Drive.
00:29:13 Assistant Development Services Director P.J. Sorensen provided the staff report.
Page 5 of 8
Kalispell City Council Minutes, October 20, 2025
00:31:38 Public Comment
Mayor Johnson opened public comment. Seeing none, Mayor Johnson closed public comment.
00:31:50 Motion to approve the final plat for Aspen Creek West Phase 1, the Subdivision
Improvement Agreement and the Memorandum of Understanding.
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Motion
Council Member - Jed Fisher: 2nd
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Approve
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Absent
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Approve
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Approve
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Absent
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Approve
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Approve
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Approve
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Approve
The motion passed unanimously on roll call vote with Council Members Gabriel and
Graham absent.
4) Resolution 6297 - BOI Loan for Front Load Truck
This item authorizes the City Manager to execute the necessary documents to finalize a
Board of Investment Loan in the amount of $416,900.00 to purchase a Front Load Solid
Waste Truck.
Interim City Manager Jarod Nygren provided the staff report.
00:33:22 Public Comment
Mayor Johnson opened public comment. Seeing none, he closed public comment.
00:33:31
Motion to approve Resolution 6297, a resolution authorizing participation in the Board of
Investments of the State of Montana Annual Adjustable Rate Municipal Finance
Consolidation Act Extendable Bond, Intercap Loan Program, authorizing the form and
terms of the loan agreement and authorizing the execution and delivery of documents
related thereto.
Council Member – Sid Daoud: Motion
Council Member – Ryan Hunter: 2nd
Council Member Daoud provided discussion on the motion.
Vote on the motion.
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Motion
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: 2nd
Mayor - Mark Johnson: Approve
Council Member - Kari Gabriel: Absent
Council Member - Sandy Carlson: Approve
Page 6 of 8
Kalispell City Council Minutes, October 20, 2025
Council Member - Sam Nunnally: Approve
Council Chair - Chad Graham: Absent
Council Member - Jed Fisher: Approve
Council Member - Sid Daoud: Approve
Council Member - Jessica Dahlman: Approve
Council Member - Ryan Hunter: Approve
The motion passed unanimously on roll call vote with Council Members Gabriel and
Graham absent.
J. CITY MANAGER, COUNCIL, AND MAYOR REPORTS (No Action)
Interim City Manager Jarod Nygren provided the following report:
• The next work session will include an overview of the status of the East Oregon Street
Demonstration Grant Agreement. They will notify adjacent property owners of the
meeting.
00:36:04 Council Member Daoud asked if Council Members are able to conduct a ride-along on
a solid waste truck.
00:36:49 Council Member Daoud talked about keeping civil during the election.
00:37:17 Mayor Johnson spoke regarding his long-term service on the Landfill Board and asked
Council Members to consider serving on the board when his term ends.
00:38:03 Mayor Johnson spoke regarding the importance of preserving the historic aspect of who
we are as a City. He then spoke regarding showing support to elected officials and how he will
support whoever wins the elections and is always open for a phone call with questions. He talked
regarding the importance of supporting each other in this community.
K. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Johnson adjourned the meeting at 7:39 p.m.
______________________________
Aimee Brunckhorst, City Clerk
Minutes approved on
UPCOMING SCHEDULE
Next Work Session – October 27, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. – Council Chambers
Next Regular Meeting – November 3, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. – Council Chambers
PARTICIPATION
Page 7 of 8
Kalispell City Council Minutes, October 20, 2025
Watch council sessions live with the agenda and supporting documents or later with documents
and time stamped minutes at: https://www.kalispell.com/MeetingVideos or live or later on
YouTube at: www.kalispell.com/YouTube.
The City does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its programs, services, activities, and
employment practices. Auxiliary aids are available. For questions about disability
accommodation please contact the City Clerk at 406-758-7756, or cityclerk@kalispell.com.
Page 8 of 8
Development Services Department
201 1st Avenue East
Kalispell, MT 59901
Phone: (406) 758-7940
Fax: (406) 758-7739
www.kalispell.com/planning
REPORT TO: Jarod Nygren, Interim City Manager
FROM: Donnie McBath, Planner II, Development Services
SUBJECT: Resolution 6298 – Flathead County Public Safety Facility Annexation
and Initial Zoning of P-1 (Public) – Staff Report #KA-25-08
MEETING DATE: November 03, 2025
BACKGROUND: Flathead County has submitted an application for annexation and initial zoning
of P-1 (Public) for property located at 225 Snowline Lane, containing approximately 33.5 acres. The
site is proposed for development as the Flathead County Public Safety Facility, consolidating a
modern detention center and the Sheriff’s Office headquarters in one location.
The property can be legally described as a parcel of land located in the Northeast Quarter of the
Southwest Quarter of Section 33, Township 28 North, Range 21 West, P.M.M., Flathead County,
Montana, more particularly described as Parcel B of Certificate of Survey No. 23135, records of
Flathead County, Montana, containing 33.500 acres of land, more or less, subject to all easements,
covenants, conditions, restrictions, and rights-of-way of record.
The Kalispell Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on October 14, 2025, to
consider the request. Staff presented staff report KA-25-08 providing details of the proposal and
evaluation. Staff recommended that the Planning Commission adopt the staff report as findings of
fact and recommend to the Council that the request for annexation and initial zoning be granted.
No comments were received at the public hearing other than by the applicant and one written
comment was received prior to the hearing. The public hearing was closed and a motion was
presented to adopt staff report KA-25-08 as findings of fact and recommend to the Kalispell City
Council that the annexation be approved with an initial zoning designation of P-1 (Public).
Commission discussion concluded that the request was appropriate, and the motion was approved on
a unanimous vote.
During the last legislative session, House Bill 713 amended state statutes to provide for zoning map
amendments to be accomplished by resolution rather than having a separate resolution and ordinance,
with the ordinance requiring a second reading and later effective date. That change is reflected in the
recommendation combining the annexation and zoning into the one resolution.
RECOMMENDATION:
ANNEXATION AND INITIAL ZONING: It is recommended that the Kalispell City Council
approve Resolution 6298, a Resolution to provide for the alteration of boundaries of the City of
Kalispell by including therein as an annexation property which can be described as a parcel of land
located in the Northeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter of Section 33, Township 28 North, Range
21 West, P.M.M., Flathead County, Montana, more particularly described as Parcel B of Certificate
of Survey No. 23135, records of Flathead County, Montana, containing 33.500 acres of land, more or
less, subject to all easements, covenants, conditions, restrictions, and rights-of-way of record, and
amending Section 27.02.010, official zoning map, City of Kalispell Zoning Ordinance 1677, by
zoning the real property described herein as City P-1 (Public) in accordance with the Kalispell
Growth Policy Plan – It 2035, and to provide an effective date.
FISCAL EFFECTS: Fiscal impacts are minimal.
ALTERNATIVES: Deny the request.
ATTACHMENTS: Resolution 6298, Annexation and Zoning
October 14, 2025, Kalispell Planning Commission Minutes
Staff Report #KA-25-08 – Flathead County Public Safety Facility Annexation
and Initial Zoning
Application Materials and Maps
Public Comment
c: Aimee Brunckhorst, Kalispell City Clerk
Return to:
Kalispell City Clerk
PO Box 1997
Kalispell, MT 59903
RESOLUTION NO. 6298
A RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE FOR THE ALTERATION OF THE BOUNDARIES OF
THE CITY OF KALISPELL BY INCLUDING THEREIN AS AN ANNEXATION CERTAIN
REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS A PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED IN THE
NORTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 33,
TOWNSHIP 28 NORTH, RANGE 21 WEST, P.M.M., FLATHEAD COUNTY, MONTANA,
MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS PARCEL B OF CERTIFICATE OF SURVEY
NO. 23135, RECORDS OF FLATHEAD COUNTY, MONTANA, CONTAINING 33.500
ACRES OF LAND, MORE OR LESS, SUBJECT TO ALL EASEMENTS, COVENANTS,
CONDITIONS, RESTRICTIONS, AND RIGHTS-OF-WAY OF RECORD, TO BE KNOWN
AS FLATHEAD COUNTY PUBLIC SAFETY FACILITY ADDITION NO. 484, TO AMEND
SECTION 27.02.010, OFFICIAL ZONING MAP, CITY OF KALISPELL ZONING
ORDINANCE (ORDINANCE NO. 1677), BY ZONING SAID PROPERTY IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE KALISPELL ZONING ORDINANCE, AND TO DECLARE
AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, Flathead County, Montana, the applicant for the above-referenced property, has
submitted a request that the property be annexed into the City and zoned P-1, Public;
and
WHEREAS, the property address is 225 Snowline Lane; and
WHEREAS, the Kalispell Planning Department has made a report on the petitioners’ Annexation
Request, #KA-25-08, dated October 14, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the Kalispell Planning Commission recommended the territory be zoned City P-1,
Public, upon annexation into the City of Kalispell; and
WHEREAS, after considering all the evidence submitted on the proposal to zone the property as
described P-1, Public, the City Council finds such initial zoning to be consistent with
the Kalispell Growth Policy Plan-It 2035 and adopts, based upon the criterion set
forth in Section 76-3-608, M.C.A., and State, Etc. v. Board of County
Commissioners, Etc. 590 P2d 602, the findings of fact of KPD as set forth in Staff
Report No. KA-25-08; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to §7-2-4211(1)(b), MCA, the City shall include the full width of any public
streets or roads, including the rights-of-way, that are adjacent to the property being
annexed; and
WHEREAS, the City of Kalispell desires to annex said property in accordance with Title 7,
Chapter 2, Part 46, Montana Code Annotated.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
KALISPELL AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. That all of the real property described as a parcel of land located in the
Northeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter of Section 33, Township 28
North, Range 21 West, P.M.M., Flathead County, Montana, more particularly
described as Parcel B of Certificate of Survey No. 23135, records of Flathead
County, Montana, containing 33.500 acres of land, more or less, subject to all
easements, covenants, conditions, restrictions, and rights-of-way of record,
be annexed to the City of Kalispell and the boundary of the City is altered to
so provide.
SECTION 2. Section 27.02.010, of the Official Zoning Map of the Kalispell Zoning
Ordinance (Ordinance No. 1677) is hereby amended by designating the
property described above as P-1, Public, on approximately 33.5 acres of land.
SECTION 3. Upon the effective date of this Resolution, the City Clerk is directed to make
and certify under the seal of the City, a copy of the record of these
proceedings as are entered on the minutes of the City Council and file said
documents with the Flathead County Clerk and Recorder.
From and after the date of filing of said documents as prepared by the City
Clerk, or on the effective date hereof, whichever shall occur later, said
annexed territory is part of the City of Kalispell and its citizens and property
shall be subject to all debts, laws and ordinances and regulations in force in
the City of Kalispell and shall be entitled to the same privileges and benefits
as are other parts of the City.
SECTION 4. This Resolution shall be effective immediately upon passage by the City
Council.
PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL AND SIGNED BY THE MAYOR OF
THE CITY OF KALISPELL, THIS 3RD DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2025.
___________________________________
Mark Johnson
ATTEST: Mayor
_________________________________
Aimee Brunckhorst, CMC
City Clerk
KALISPELL CITY PLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING
October 14, 2025
CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL The regular meeting of the Kalispell City Planning Board and
CALL Zoning Commission was called to order at 6:00 p.m. Commission
members present were Chad Graham, Pip Burke, Doug
Kauffman, Joshua Borgardt, Cate Walker (Zoom) and Rory
Young. Jarod Nygren, PJ Sorensen, and Kirstin Robinson
represented the Kalispell Planning Department.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES Kauffman moved and Young seconded a motion to approve the
minutes of the September 9, 2025 meeting of the Kalispell City
Planning Board and Zoning Commission.
VOTE BY ACCLAMATION The motion passed unanimously on a vote of acclamation.
HEAR THE PUBLIC None.
KA-25-08 – FLATHEAD COUNTY File #KA-25-08 – Flathead County has submitted a petition for
PUBLIC SAFETY FACILITY annexation and initial zoning of P-1 (Public Facilities) for
property located at 225 Snowline Lane, Kalispell, Montana.
STAFF REPORT PJ Sorensen representing the Kalispell Planning Department
reviewed Staff report #KA-25-08.
Staff recommends that the Kalispell City Planning Commission
adopt Staff Report #KA-25-08 as findings of fact and recommend
to the Kalispell City Council that the property located at 225
Snowline Lane be annexed into the city with an initial zoning
designation of P-1 (Public).
BOARD DISCUSSION Sorensen provided Young with a summary of the public comment
in support of the annexation.
BOARD MEMBER SEATED Walker recused herself from KA-25-81; she is a representative for
the applicant.
PUBLIC COMMENT Whitney Aschenwald – 947 Swan Hill, Bigfork – Representative
for the applicant – Is happy to answer any questions the
commission or public may have.
MOTION – KA-25-08 Young moved and Borgardt seconded that the Kalispell City
Planning Commission adopt the findings of fact and recommend
to the Kalispell City Council that the property located at 225
Snowline Lane be annexed into the city with an initial zoning
designation of P-1 (Public).
BOARD DISCUSSION Graham and Kauffman agreed that the annexation was
straightforward and made sense.
ROLL CALL Motion passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
Kalispell City Planning Commission
Minutes of the meeting of October 14, 2025
Page | 1
BOARD MEMBER RE-SEATED Walker re-seated.
OLD BUSINESS Sorensen updated the commission on city council action on items
from the September Planning Commission meeting.
NEW BUSINESS Sorensen updated the board on the upcoming Wednesday
November 12, 2025 Planning Commission Meeting and Work
Session.
ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:12 PM.
WORK SESSION Transitioned into work session on the Montana Land Use
Planning Act.
_____________________ ___________________
Chad Graham Kirstin Robinson
President Recording Secretary
APPROVED as submitted/amended: ___________
Kalispell City Planning Commission
Minutes of the meeting of October 14, 2025
Page | 2
FLATHEAD COUNTY PUBLIC SAFETY FACILITY
ANNEXATION AND INITIAL ZONING OF P-1 (PUBLIC) UPON ANNEXATION
Staff Report #KA-25-08
KALISPELL PLANNING DEPARTMENT
OCTOBER 14, 2025
This report to the Kalispell City Planning Commission and the Kalispell City Council is regarding
a request from Flathead County for annexation and initial zoning of P-1 (Public) for property at
225 Snowline Lane, containing approximately 33.5 acres. A public hearing has been scheduled
before the Planning Commission for October 14, 2025, beginning at 6:00 PM in the Kalispell City
Council Chambers. The Planning Commission will forward a recommendation to the Kalispell
City Council for final action.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Flathead County has submitted an application for annexation and initial zoning of P-1 (Public) for
property located at 225 Snowline Lane. The subject site consists of 33.5 acres proposed for
development as the new Flathead County Public Safety Facility, which will include a new
detention center and Sheriff’s Office headquarters.
Annexation will allow connection to municipal water, sewer, and fire protection services, and
establish zoning consistent with the proposed public facility use. The property is located within
Kalispell’s annexation boundary and contiguous to city limits.
As part of the application, a Petition to Withdraw from the Somers Rural Fire District has been
submitted pursuant to MCA §7-33-2127. Upon annexation, fire protection services will be
provided by the Kalispell Fire Department. This report evaluates the proposal based on the
applicable zoning and annexation criteria outlined in MCA Sections 7-2-4601 through 7-2-4610.
A. Petitioners / Owners: Flathead County
800 South Main Street, Rm 302
Kalispell, MT 59901
Contact: Whitney Aschenwald, Project Manager
Phone: (406) 758-2467
B. Location and Legal Description of Properties: The property is located at 225 Snowline
Lane, Kalispell, Montana. The property can be legally described as Parcel B of Certificate of
Survey No. 23135, located in the Northeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter, Section 33,
Township 28 North, Range 21 West, M.P.M., Flathead County, Montana, containing 33.5
acres, more or less.
1
C. Existing Land Use and Zoning: The subject property is currently vacant and zoned SAG-
5 (Suburban Agricultural) under Flathead County jurisdiction. The County zoning regulations
identify this designation as intended for low-density agricultural and residential uses.
D. Proposed Zoning: The proposed zoning for the subject property is City P-1 (Public).
Kalispell Zoning Ordinance § 27.18.010 states, “A public district intended to provide and
reserve areas for public uses in order to preserve and provide adequate land for a variety of
community facilities which serve the public health, safety and general welfare. Such public
uses would include schools, public buildings, parks, airports, jails, utilities, etc. This zoning
district would typically be found in the public land use designation as shown on the Kalispell
Growth Policy Future Land Use Map but can be applied to any land use designation.” The
proposed P-1 zoning designation matches the stated purpose and permitted uses of the district
under §§ 27.18.010 and 27.18.020 and is consistent with the surrounding zoning designations
and land uses.
2
E. Size:
33.5 acres
F. Adjacent Zoning:
North: County SAG-5
East: County SAG-5
West: County I-1 (Light Industrial)
South: City I-1/P-1
G. Adjacent Land Uses:
North: Suburban Residential
East: Suburban Residential and Industrial
West: Industrial and Urban Mixed Use
South: Industrial
H. General Land Use Character: The
general land use character of the area is
agricultural and industrial transitioning to urban public facility and commercial uses. The
subject property lies along the Highway 93 South corridor at the southern edge of Kalispell,
where long-term growth and public service expansion are planned.
I. Utilities and Public Services: Water and sewer service are available within adjacent rights-
of-way. Any extensions necessary to provide service to development of the property will
need to be designed and installed by the property owner subject to review and approval by
the Kalispell Public Works Department under the City of Kalispell Standards for Design and
Construction.
Sewer: City of Kalispell (available upon annexation)
Water: City of Kalispell (available upon annexation)
Refuse: City of Kalispell (available upon annexation)
Electricity: Flathead Electric Cooperative
Natural Gas: Northwestern Energy
Telephone: Lumen
Schools: Somers-Lakeside SD #29/ Flathead High School District
Fire: Somers Rural Fire District (to be withdrawn upon annexation) / City
of Kalispell
Police: Flathead County Sheriff/City of Kalispell upon annexation
3
I. ANNEXATION EVALUATION
A. Compliance with the Growth Policy: The subject property lies within the City of
Kalispell’s annexation boundary, described as “land beyond the City limits where City
services are generally available or could be reasonably extended if the property were to
be annexed into the City in the next ten years.” The property is designated Suburban
Residential and Industrial on the Future Land Use Map. The existing P-1 (Public) zoning
is consistent with this designation and allows governmental and public facilities, meeting
the Growth Policy’s intent to reserve land for public use and provide modern public
safety infrastructure in a logical growth area.
B. Municipal Services: The City of Kalispell is equipped to provide all essential
municipal services to the property upon annexation. Water and sanitary sewer mains are
located adjacent to the site and can be extended to serve the facility. Infrastructure
extensions and connections will be completed at the applicant’s expense and reviewed by
Public Works during permitting. The City of Kalispell has an extension of services plan
that details how services would be extended to the annexed property. Both sanitary
sewer and water services are available to the property. Any additional extensions
4
necessary to provide service would be designed and installed by the property owner
subject to review and approval by the Kalispell Public Works Department under the City
of Kalispell Standards for Design and Construction. Given the level of existing services
available to the property, annexation will not overburden the municipal services in place.
C. Emergency Services:
A Notice of Withdrawal from the Somers Rural Fire District has been submitted. Upon
annexation, fire protection will be provided by the Kalispell Fire Department. Law
enforcement services will transition from the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to the
Kalispell Police Department. The site lies approximately 3.5 miles from Fire Station 61,
and it is readily serviceable by the city fire, police, and ambulance services.
D. Solid Waste and Other Utilities:
Solid waste collection services will be provided by the City of Kalispell. Electricity,
natural gas, and telecommunications infrastructure are readily available from existing
utility providers. The property is located within School District #29; however, no impacts
to school or park facilities are anticipated due to the non-residential nature of the
proposed development.
E. Distance from City Limits:
The subject site is contiguous to city limits along its southern boundary, representing a
logical extension of Kalispell’s municipal boundary and service area.
F. Cost of Services:
Once annexed to the city, full city services will be made available to the property owner.
Any necessary infrastructure associated with this development will be required to be
constructed in accordance with the City of Kalispell’s Design and Construction Standards
and any other development policies, regulations or ordinances that may apply. The typical
cost of services analysis would not apply in this situation due to its status as an exempt
county-owned property. It is anticipated that the increased cost of service would be
minimal, but would still be subject to assessments which would be paid by the county. The
location of the facility at this location would, however, allow the jail facility to better and
more efficiently perform its operations which provides a service to the community as a
whole.
II. INITIAL ZONING AND ZONE CHANGE EVALUATION BASED ON
STATUTORY CRITERIA
The statutory basis for reviewing zoning is set forth by 76-2-303, M.C.A. Findings of fact for
the zoning designation are discussed relative to the itemized criteria described by 76-2-304,
M.C.A. and Section 27.29.020 of the Kalispell Zoning Ordinance. The site is currently zoned
City P-1 (Public). No zone change is requested as part of this action.
The P-1 zoning designation is, as stated in Kalispell Zoning Ordinance § 27.18.010, “a public
district intended to provide and reserve areas for public uses in order to preserve and provide
adequate land for a variety of community facilities which serve the public health, safety and
general welfare. Such public uses would include schools, public buildings, parks, airports, jails,
utilities, etc. This zoning district would typically be found in the public land use designation
5
as shown on the Kalispell Growth Policy Future Land Use Map but can be applied to any land
use designation.” The existing city zoning is consistent with the Growth Policy, facilitates the
provision of essential public services, and meets the statutory criteria by promoting public
health, safety, and general welfare in a logical growth area contiguous to city limits.
1. Does the requested zone comply with the growth policy?
Yes. The Kalispell Growth Policy Future Land Use Map designates the property as
Suburban Residential and Industrial, which allows for public facilities and governmental
uses. The City P-1 (Public) zoning is consistent with this designation and reserves the
property for public use in accordance with Kalispell Zoning Ordinance § 27.18.010, which
is “intended to provide and reserve areas for public uses in order to preserve and provide
adequate land for a variety of community facilities which serve the public health, safety
and general welfare.” P-1 zoning on this site furthers Growth Policy goals to promote
orderly growth, extend services to contiguous properties, and provide adequate and modern
public safety infrastructure. The location of the Public Safety Facility on Snowline Lane
near Highway 93 South supports balanced growth and service distribution while reducing
operational strain on downtown Kalispell
2. Will the requested zone have an effect on motorized and non-motorized transportation
systems?
The project is accessed from Highway 93 South and Snowline Lane, a corridor that already
serves commercial and industrial traffic. A Traffic Impact Study prepared by E5
Engineering evaluated the development’s impacts and recommended improvements at the
Highway 93/Snowline Lane intersection to accommodate expected traffic volumes. A
Traffic Impact Study will be required as part of the review process prior to issuance of a
building permit, and the recommended intersection improvements must be completed in
accordance with City standards. Non-motorized facilities such as sidewalks, internal
circulation, and connections to the broader pedestrian and bicycle network will be reviewed
during site development. The existing P-1 zoning does not itself alter transportation
conditions; however, development under P-1 must comply with all City requirements for
safe and efficient circulation.
3. Will the requested zone secure safety from fire, panic, and other dangers?
Yes. Upon annexation, the subject property will be served by the Kalispell Fire
Department, with Station 61 located approximately 3.3 miles from the site providing
primary response. The proposed facility will be designed and reviewed under current
building and fire codes, incorporating secure housing units, automated life-safety systems,
fire suppression, and emergency evacuation routes. Adequate access from Highway 93 and
Snowline Lane ensures that fire and EMS services can reach the property without delay.
While a portion of the property lies within the mapped floodplain, the proposed building
footprint is entirely outside of the floodplain and is not impacted. Geotechnical review has
not identified hazardous soils or other conditions that would compromise life safety.
6
4. Will the requested zone promote the public health, safety and general welfare?
Yes. The proposed P-1 zoning directly serves the public health and safety by providing
modern detention and public safety infrastructure. The existing jail at 920 South Main
Street is overcrowded and outdated. Relocating and expanding these services will
enhance law enforcement operations, provide adequate inmate housing, and improve
public access to justice services. The facility will also reduce congestion in downtown
Kalispell and improve long-term emergency management for the City and County.
5. Will the requested zone provide for adequate light and air?
Yes. The Kalispell Zoning Ordinance establishes dimensional standards for the P-1 zone,
including setbacks, height limits, and lot coverage. These requirements ensure adequate
separation between structures and adjacent properties, preserving light, air circulation, and
visual buffers. The site’s size (33.5 acres) provides ample area for building placement, open
space, and landscaped buffers.
6. Will the requested zone facilitate the adequate provision of transportation, water, sewerage,
schools, parks, and other public requirements?
Yes. Municipal water and sewer services are available adjacent to the property and will be
extended in compliance with City standards. Solid waste collection will be provided by the
City of Kalispell. Electricity, natural gas, and telecommunications are readily available.
The proposed use does not create impacts on schools or park facilities, as it is a non-
residential governmental facility. Transportation infrastructure improvements identified in
the TIS will be incorporated into project design.
7. Will the requested zone promote compatible urban growth?
Yes. The property lies directly adjacent to City limits and within the City’s designated
annexation area. The surrounding land includes industrial and commercial uses to the west
and south, which are compatible with the proposed public facility. Annexation and P-1
zoning represent a logical extension of the City’s boundary and promote compact, orderly
development rather than fragmented growth.
8. Does the requested zone give consideration to the character of the district and its particular
suitability for particular uses?
Yes. The property is located in a transition area between agricultural land and
industrial/commercial uses. A public facility is suitable for this location, taking advantage
of highway access, available services, and separation from dense residential
neighborhoods. The P-1 zone specifically accommodates governmental facilities such as
detention centers, making it an appropriate designation for the property.
9. Will the proposed zone conserve the value of buildings?
Yes. Establishing a consistent zoning framework ensures predictable development patterns
and prevents incompatible land uses. The proposed zoning and development will be
7
compatible with surrounding industrial and commercial properties, protecting the value of
adjacent buildings and investments.
10. Will the requested zone encourage the most appropriate use of the land throughout the
municipality?
Yes. The property’s location, size, and access make it well suited for a regional public
safety facility. Annexation and P-1 zoning allow the property to be used for its highest and
most appropriate purpose: providing essential services for Kalispell and Flathead County.
The facility will meet an urgent public need while aligning with municipal goals for
infrastructure and service provision.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Kalispell City Planning Commission adopt Staff Report #KA-25-08 as
findings of fact and recommend to the Kalispell City Council that the property located at 225
Snowline Lane be annexed into the city with an initial zoning designation of P-1 (Public).
8
Kalispell Zoning
Flathead County Public Safety Building
Subject Parcel
n
I-1 Light Industrial
li ne L
S n ow
Demersville Rd
sh
A
l
ey
Cr
ee
k
93
S
Foys Bend
93
Subject
Parcel
Snowline Ln
Old School D r
U
S
D em ersville Rd
H
ig
hw
ay I-1 Light
93
S
Industrial
A
uc
H
ig t io
hw n
ay Rd
93
S
¯
Data Sources:
Montana Cadastral, 0 150 300 600 900
Flathead County GIS Feet
City of Kalispell GIS, Basemap:
Austin Bachurski - September 10, 2025 Esri Community Maps, ArcGIS.com
Kalispell Growth Policy
Flathead County Public Safety Building
Subject Parcel
n Industrial
li ne L
Urban Mixed Use
Suburban Residential
S n ow
Demersville Rd
sh
A
Urban l
ey
Mixed Use Cr
ee
k
93
S
Suburban
Residential Foys Bend
93
Subject
Parcel
Snowline Ln
Old School D r
U
S
Industrial
D em ersville Rd
H
ig
hw
ay
93
S
A
uc
H
ig t io
hw n
ay Rd
93
S
¯
Data Sources:
Montana Cadastral, 0 150 300 600 900
Flathead County GIS Feet
City of Kalispell GIS, Basemap:
Austin Bachurski - September 10, 2025 Esri Community Maps, ArcGIS.com
D e mersville Rd Lo wer Valle y Rd
Subject Parcel
Kalispell Mailing List Mailing List Parcels
Flathead County PublicBells Ln
Safety Building Other Parcels
w li n e L n
Demersville R d
US H
sh
A
S no le
ighw
y
Cr
ee
ay k
Lo w
93
S
er
V al
Foys Bend Ln Foys Bend Ln le y R
93
Old School Dr
Snowlin e Ln
Ash
U
S
D e me rsville Rd
H
ig ley
hw Cr ee
ay k
93
S
A uc
t
io
n
Rd
U
Rocky Cliff Dr S
H
ig
hw
White Basin Rd
ay
93
¯
Data Sources: S
Montana Cadastral, 0 240 480 960 1440
Flathead County GIS Feet
City of Kalispell GIS, Basemap:
Austin Bachurski - September 10, 2025 Esri Community Maps, ArcGIS.com
From: blems@aol.com
To: Kirstin Robinson
Subject: EXTERNAL 10/14/2025 Planning Commission Public comments
Date: Tuesday, October 14, 2025 10:05:22 AM
TO: Kalispell Planning Commission
I support the annexation of proposed Flathead County Public Safety/Detention Center
Complex south of the City with a stronger emphasis on providing pedestrian/non-
motorized access to the complex.
Application for annexation: As indicated below, the applicant does not address
pedestrian or non-vehicle considerations.
g. Facilitating the adequate provision of transportation, etc.
SITE PLAN: “Recommendations from the TIC are being included in site plans and
include improvements to Highway 93 S/Snowline Lane intersection providing an adequate
transportation route to and from the project site.”
i. Giving consideration to the peculiar suitability of the property for particular uses
“The project is in close proximity to dowtown Kalispell.”
Staff Report:
2. Will the requested zone have an effect on motorized and non-motorixed transportation
systems?
“Non-motorized facilities such as sidewalks, internal circulation, and connection to the
broader pedestrian and bicycle network will be reviewed during site development.”
Given the County's unwillingness to provide non-motorized transportation systems in
the past, this provision needs to be emphasized as an integral element of the
development it has proposed for the site. Strenthening its obligation to provide these
systems on any public road that the detention center/public safety complex abuts
should be clearly understood as an requirement of annexation. The mix of employee,
visitor, and service provider vehicles at this site will be substantial.
Margaret S Davis, homeowner in Kalispell, POB 788, Lakeside MT 59922
Get email alerts for Kalispell
A daily email when new agendas and minutes are posted.