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11/08/2024
“Missoula This Week” is reported and written by Katie Fairbanks. Send your Missoula news and tips to kfairbanks@montanafreepress.org.
Missoula County’s Busy but Smooth Election Day
Missoula County Elections Administrator Bradley Seaman reported a busy Election Day, with lines lasting up to three hours at peak times. Results were released soon after the last votes were cast at 11 p.m. Voter turnout in Missoula County reached nearly 76%, higher than Montana’s average of 74.5%, but slightly less than the 2020 turnout.
Seaman praised the election staff and volunteers for their dedication in managing the process efficiently. The county processed 72,188 ballots, nearly matching the 2020 election count. A new state law required continuous ballot counting, which contributed to a delay in results but ensured all ballots were counted promptly.
This election was the first under the rules from the 2023 Legislature, mandating nonstop counting on Election Day. Seaman noted the challenge of managing a continuous count with limited staff, emphasizing the need for well-trained volunteers for overnight shifts.
Drive-thru ballot drop-offs were popular, with steady traffic at McCormick Park and Russell Street locations. Over 7,600 voters used one of the county’s 20 polling places, which Seaman described as a phenomenal turnout.
Provisional ballots, primarily from voters who requested absentee ballots but voted in person, will be verified next week. The election office will conduct an audit on November 15 and canvass the election results on November 18.
Public Notice
Missoula Parks and Recreation is hosting a community workshop for a new 5.4-acre park on Scott Street and improvements to Northside Park. The event includes dinner, childcare, and planning exercises. For updates, visit engagemissoula.com/northside-parks.
The city plans to purchase parkland for around $2 million, utilizing $1.6 million in tax increment financing and $400,000 for additional land. This acquisition will facilitate future redevelopment planning.
A public hearing is set for November 18 to discuss using Open Space Bond funds for this project. The total park project cost is projected at $4.38 million, with funding from sales, donations, grants, and impact fees.
5 Things to Know in Missoula
The public hearing for a new Targeted Economic Development District at Grant Creek Crossing continues on November 14. Concerns about tax revenue impacts on fire and school districts are being addressed.
Missoula County commissioners and the City Council approved $688,000 for a conservation easement on the Indreland family’s land. This will limit development while supporting ongoing ranch operations.
The University of Montana’s school psychology program received a $3.75 million grant to enhance diversity among school psychologists in high-needs schools statewide. The RAISE Initiative will support 27 graduates with full tuition and stipends.
Missoula County will allocate $1.3 million in grants from its Community Assistance Fund to 30 organizations supporting local communities.
ProHousing Missoula is hosting an event to discuss parking reform’s impact on housing and climate change. The presentation will feature insights from Daniel Herriges of the Parking Reform Network.
On Campus
The annual “Can the Cats” food drive starts November 9, encouraging food and cash donations for the Missoula Food Bank. The drive runs until the Griz-Cat game on November 23.
UM President Seth Bodnar expressed confidence in repeating last year’s success in the food drive, emphasizing community participation in defeating the in-state rival on and off the field.
The drive begins with “Stuff the Bus” on November 9, collecting food at various grocery stores around Missoula.
Celebrating Veterans
Missoula government offices will close Monday for Veterans Day. American Legion Post 27 and VFW Post 209 will host veteran breakfasts with donations encouraged.
The American Legion will hold its annual ceremony at the Doughboy statue outside the Missoula County Courthouse, inviting veterans to wear service-related attire.
Draught Works Brewery celebrates veterans with a Project Healing Waters event, offering social activities and free beers for veterans on Monday.
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