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Good morning. Welcome back with an update on the Poverello Center and its new contract for the Temporary Safe Outdoor Space. More on that below.
This edition also covers Whole Foods’ plans for Missoula and a city zoning loophole fix that could have allowed data centers across the area.
Weather Forecast ☀️
Prepare for winter after a week of sunny fall days. Friday: sunny, high near 75°F. Saturday: rainy, high of 55°F, dropping to 30°F at night with possible snow. Sunday: rain/snow likely, high of 45°F.
Midtown Market Project: Whole Foods Included, Taproom Displaced
Excitement surrounds the introduction of a Whole Foods Market to Missoula, as opinions flood social media. If plans proceed, this will be Montana’s second Whole Foods, following its debut in Bozeman in 2023. The Midtown Market, where Whole Foods will be an anchor, is set to launch at the 3333 Brooks St. site, with availability for new retail spaces. Delivery is anticipated for April 2028.
Announced on Oct. 2 by Missoula Midtown Association, the Midtown Market aims to bring retail options, a public plaza, and infrastructure upgrades, fulfilling the 2023 Midtown Master Plan’s vision. The location, near Midtown Commons, has no current permit applications, but plans are to start construction next year, contingent on funding for public enhancements. The development will support 150 permanent jobs.
Great Burn Brewing announced losing its lease due to the project, as its taproom will be converted into a parking lot. They are seeking a new midtown/southside location while retaining their current space until year-end.
Meeting Minutes 📝
City Council
The Missoula City Council approved development code amendments to restrict data centers to heavy industrial areas, closing a loophole that allowed them citywide under certain conditions. Discussions were focused on a proposal for wider driveways, with a failed vote on maintaining the 25-foot width. An amendment exempting some driveways from yard coverage limits passed.
Following Up ↩️
The Poverello Center is set to reopen the Temporary Safe Outdoor Space (TSOS) on Nov. 1, after taking over from Hope Rescue Mission. The program, housing about 35-40 people, faced funding challenges as federal COVID relief funds ran out. The new contract, funded by loan repayments and remaining federal aid, supports operations while working on long-term financial plans.
The original operator, Hope Rescue Mission, transitioned from a government-supported to donor-supported ministry, closing TSOS at the end of August. Poverello Center is committed to assisting residents in achieving housing stability.
Public Notice 🧐
General Election Ballots
Registered absentee voters will receive ballots soon, as per Missoula Elections Office. Events are scheduled throughout October for voter registration and ballot submission.
Missoula Public Health Survey
Missoula Public Health is conducting a health needs survey as part of the Community Health Assessment update, essential for resource planning and service implementation.
Vaccine Clinics
Scheduled from Oct. 14 – Oct. 28, clinics offer COVID and flu vaccines. Visit Missoula Public Health for details.
Treasurer’s Office Services
The Missoula County Treasurer’s office provides vehicle titling and registration at local community spots.
Local Lineup 🚶
Parks Palooza Block Party celebrates facility milestones, with events like hayrides and skateboarding demos at McCormick Park. The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes host “Honoring Our Ancestors” on Indigenous Peoples’ Day at Caras Park.
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