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Three years ago, the Missoula Tenant Union marked its first anniversary, highlighting their commitment to tenant-focused advocacy. “We’re all renters, and we want to make it easier for people to control their homes, whatever that looks like,” said Jackson Sapp, a founding organizer.
Missoula and Bozeman tenant unions are part of a national trend, rooted in movements from the 1960s and intensified by COVID-19. Greg Baltz, law professor and co-director of the Housing Justice and Tenant Solidarity Clinic at Rutgers, notes the pandemic has driven this surge in tenant organizing.
These unions, established in 2022, advocate for tenant rights and have organized properties to secure tenant protections locally. Tara Raghuveer, director of the national Tenant Union Federation, emphasized Montana’s strategic importance due to tenants’ political influence.
The unions aim to advance tenants’ rights in the 2027 Montana legislative session. Mobile home owners face unique challenges as they rent the land beneath their homes, with out-of-state companies often increasing rents significantly.
Missoula’s Travois Village and Harvey’s Park mobile home park unions negotiated with Texas-based Oak Wood Ventures for a new lease, successfully securing a 3% rent cap for 2024. “This will lock in two out of our three top demands,” Erik Brilz, a Travois resident, remarked.
Say Again? 🤔
Speculations about a “Real Housewives” franchise in Montana stirred excitement. U.S. Sun reported a potential series in Gallatin County. However, an unnamed Bravo executive dismissed these rumors, though the idea isn’t entirely off the table.
A production company is casting for a Montana-based spin-off independently. “There’s no ‘Real Housewives of Montana’ in the works,” said the executive, clarifying that the production companies usually pitch to the network later.
Gallatin County, known for luxury stores and high home prices, could provide the ideal setting, especially with the nearby Yellowstone Club. While a Montana-based series isn’t confirmed, developments are being closely watched.
Following the Law ⚖️
Missoula District Court recently heard arguments in a case against a controversial 2025 Montana law impacting public bathroom use. The ACLU, alongside other organizations, challenged House Bill 121, which mandates sex-segregated bathrooms.
Plaintiffs argue the law violates privacy and due process rights, while the state claims it safeguards women. Attorney Thane Johnson suggested enforcement could involve individuals taking photos to report noncompliance.
Johnson referenced sports figures like Sophie Cunningham to defend the law, sparking ACLU lawyer Terry Ding’s frustration at the unrelated arguments. Judge Leslie Halligan can decide to uphold or strike down the law without a trial. More details on the hearing can be found here.
By the Numbers 🔢
Wildfires have erupted across Montana, with 80 recorded in a single week, burning over 100,000 acres. Currently, 25 large fires are active, with Sand Creek being the largest. Nationally, over 6.5 million acres have burned this year.
Glad You Asked 🙋🏻
Smoke has blanketed Montana lately, affecting visibility and air quality. While staying indoors is often advised, proper indoor air filtration is crucial. NorthWestern Energy offers rebates on air filters, and designated clean air spaces are available statewide.
For more on health impacts of smoke, read the full story here.
Highlights ☀️
Additional stories this week include:
- Missoula’s new housing option for youth exiting foster care here.
- Democrat Alani Bankhead remains in the U.S. Senate race, creating political intrigue here.
- Fire threats at Maverick Mountain Ski Area here.
On Our Radar
Nick E. — The Montana Little Leaguers from Billings are set to face Nevada, with a spot in the Little League World Series at stake. Recap of their last game here.
Jacob — NASA’s Voyager probes, originally on a short mission, continue to thrive, reaching milestones nearly 50 years later with newfound energy here.
Nora — Movies have been a great escape from the smoke. Recent favorites include “The Odyssey” and “Tuner.”
Zeke — While at Glendive Ranger-Review, adapting to new surroundings was a challenge, as explained in this AP article on the “first-night effect” here.
Mara — Embracing pantry staples, lentils take center stage in our cooking, inspired by Madhur Jaffrey’s cookbook here.
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Lowdown is edited by Nick Ehli, with additional copy editing by Mara Silvers.
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