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08/14/2026
Welcome to the new Missoula This Week. Katie Fairbanks, the Missoula local reporter for Montana Free Press, introduces this revamped newsletter.
This edition covers a proposal to create Montana’s 57th county, updates on city and county budgets, and Mountain Line’s project to ensure bus operations for 50 more years.
But first, your weekend weather ☀️
Missoula saw relief from lingering smoke as winds moved in. The National Weather Service forecasts a storm pattern on Friday, bringing cooler temperatures and rain chances. Expect warmer weather over the weekend, with highs in the mid-80s. Early next week, a southwest flow might bring more rain and wildfire smoke from Washington and Oregon, according to the Montana DEQ’s smoke forecast.
Rural Missoula County residents eye creating a new county
Exploring the possibility of splitting from Missoula County, Seeley-Swan residents are considering creating a new county. The concept dates back to 1925 when Montana’s Petroleum County was last formed.
This discussion isn’t new but has gained traction with a growing Facebook group and a feasibility study. Ted Morgan, Swan Valley Community Council member, explains the motivation behind this movement.
“We see tax dollars going to urban areas, not benefiting rural people,” Morgan states. Residents have discussed this for 15 years, previously considering joining Lake County, requiring votes from both Missoula and Lake counties.
Morgan, actively involved in the community, says about 10 people have been working on the feasibility study for over a year. Last year, they collaborated with Republican Senators for a resolution studying new counties, which passed the Senate but died in the House.
The feasibility study suggests the new “county 57” starts west of Johnsrud Road near Potomac, covering Highway 200 and 83 corridors.
Increased taxable values since 2020, with significant second homes and resorts, make the new county a viable option. The proposed new county has 6,435 parcels with a taxable value of $31.13 million, higher than Mineral and Powell counties.
Operating under a “lean governance model,” the new county aims to reduce property tax burden while maintaining services. The proposal includes a government with 18 to 20 employees. Without its own jail, it would contract with another county.
To proceed, the group needs a petition signed by 50% of registered voters in the proposed new county. Verified signatures would lead to an election.
Morgan mentions efforts to change the rule requiring the entire county to vote on new county creation, calling it “undemocratic.” The group aims to formalize, fundraise, and promote through mailers, advertising, and town halls.
Missoula County Commissioner Juanita Vero, a Greenough resident, views the proposal as part of civic engagement and emphasizes the county’s efforts in rural development and open space projects.
Vero encourages residents to connect with county officials and utilize resources on the county’s website and property tax information page.
Meeting Minutes 📝
City Council
The Missoula City Council opened hearings on the 2027 budget. Mayor Andrea Davis proposed a budget in July. Changes mean most residents’ city tax bills decrease, but taxes rise on second homes and rentals, says Jessica Miller from the central services department.
A median-valued home sees a $72 decrease, and a $750,000 home sees a $250 reduction, while a non-primary $507,000 home sees a $1,968 increase.
The council rejected budget reductions proposed by members Bob Campbell and Kristen Jordan. Jordan’s proposal for an ADA coordinator and a parks maintenance study awaits further information for a vote.
County Commission
The Missoula County commissioners adopted new impact fees for the Missoula Rural Fire District. Deputy Chief Cory Horsens notes fees will address growth and inflation costs. A 2,000-square-foot home incurs a $1,554 fee.
What Happens Next 🗓️
Missoula City Council set to vote on 2027 budget
🗓️ Monday, Aug. 17
⏰ 6 p.m.
📍 City Council Chambers, 140 W. Pine St., or via Microsoft Teams.
ℹ️ The council will consider amendments and vote on the budget, including assessments and fees.
🔗 More information is on the city’s website.
Missoula County budget review continues
🗓️ Tuesday, Aug. 18
⏰ 10 a.m.
📍 Room 206, Missoula County Administration Building, 199 W. Pine St., or via Microsoft Teams.
ℹ️ The commissioners review expected revenue and consider new requests. The final budget adoption is set for Sept. 3.
🔗More details are available online.
Missoula County Public Schools trustees to discuss budget
🗓️ Tuesday, Aug. 18
⏰ 5 p.m.
📍 Boardroom, MCPS Administration Building A, 909 S. Ave. W.
ℹ️ The board will take public comment and vote on the 2027 budget. Increased taxable value means fewer mills needed, says Denise Williams, executive director of business and operations.
🔗 Preliminary budget details are attached to the Aug. 11 meeting agenda. Tuesday’s agenda will be available online.
Photo Op 📸
Missoula officials celebrated the groundbreaking of Mountain Line’s new facility near the Missoula Montana Airport, a $76 million project funded by a $39.1 million Federal Transit Administration grant.
Jordan Hess, Mountain Line’s CEO, explains that the current facility is too small to accommodate growth. The new 60,000-square-foot facility will include indoor bus parking, charging infrastructure, maintenance space, and offices equipped with solar and geothermal energy.
With a zero-fare system and a mostly electric fleet, Mountain Line is investing in the future to ensure continued service reliability. Facility construction is expected through late 2028.
About Town 🚶
⚾🌳 MUD will hold a sustainability fair at the PaddleHeads baseball game Friday, featuring vendor activities. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., and first pitch is at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are available online.
🎶 Daisy Chain Fest is underway, featuring 28 acts performing at Free Cycles, Zootown Arts Community Center, and Monks. For the schedule and tickets, visit online.
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