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10/24/2025
“Missoula This Week” is curated by Katie Fairbanks. Send Missoula-related tips to kfairbanks@montanafreepress.org.
Community Land Trusts Boost Disaster Resilience in Missoula
Missoula is learning from Lahaina, Hawaii, about the impact of community land trusts in rebuilding after disasters. Following a deadly wildfire in 2023, the Lahaina Community Land Trust (CLT) has played a pivotal role in helping the community recover. Autumn Ness, the executive director, shared insights at the Northwest Community Land Trust Coalition’s 2025 meeting in Missoula. This coalition supports CLTs in several states, including Montana and Hawaii. The focus was on enhancing disaster resilience through CLTs.
CLTs aim to secure affordable housing by owning land that is leased to homeowners, thus reducing the price of homes. In Missoula, the Front Step Community Land Trust manages over 80 permanently affordable homes. Brittany Palmer, the executive director, emphasized the importance of community assets in facing climate change challenges.
Ness, who initiated the Lahaina CLT, explained how the trust aids locals in retaining their land post-disaster. The 2023 wildfire displaced thousands, and the CLT offers affordable housing solutions while preserving community heritage. Amber Khan from the University of Washington further highlighted how CLTs foster preparedness and community connectedness, vital for disaster recovery.
Front Step in Missoula is exploring energy-efficient developments and neighborhood workshops to bolster disaster preparedness. Palmer stressed that strong community relationships enhance resilience against natural disasters.
University of Montana Secures Federal Grant for Youth Programs
The University of Montana has been awarded a $1.2 million federal grant over three years to enhance youth behavioral health programs and career paths in rural areas. This initiative, funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration, will train high school students in Livingston, Helena, and Kalispell as community health workers, offering internships and dual enrollment credits. Kate Chapin, the program’s director, sees it as a vital step in addressing workforce shortages and empowering youth in their communities.
Students will gain technical training and essential life skills like problem-solving and resilience. The initiative is supported by over 30 organizations and educational institutions, promising broad impact and opportunity.
5 Important Updates for Missoula Residents
Election Ballot Rejections: The Missoula County Elections Office reported that nearly 160 ballots lacked the required voter signature or birth year due to a new state law. Voters have until Nov. 5 to rectify these issues. Track your ballot at myvoterpagemt.com.
Property Tax Bills Issued: Missoula County has mailed 2025 tax bills, also available online. Payments for the first half are due by Dec. 1, with various payment options available.
Riverfront Trails Subdivision Plan Amendment: The Missoula City Council has extended the development timeline for the Riverfront Trails Subdivision in the Miller Creek area, with conditions for water rights transfer and infrastructure development.
County Advisory Boards Survey: Missoula County seeks resident feedback on advisory boards through a survey open until Nov. 14. The survey aims to improve board recruitment and participation.
Citizens’ Law Enforcement Academy Enrollment: The Missoula Police Department invites applications for the Citizens’ Law Enforcement Academy. The program starts Jan. 14, offering insights into the department’s operations. Apply online by Dec. 11.
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