Tip of the Spear - Missoula County

Andrew Hagemeier, director of Community and Economic Development, is back on the podcast this week to help bust myths about subdivisions, zoning and land use. Other topics include tax increment financing, the Wye Water System project and affordable housing. Be sure to check out the TIF and TEDD 101 episode for a primer on how tax increment financing works.Text us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

The Montana Legislature, which meets every two years, recently wrapped up the 2025 session in Helena. So, what happened at the Capitol this year? How do these new laws impact residents and county operations? From property taxes to jury duty summons to economic development, there is a lot to cover! This week, the commissioners spoke with Chris Lounsbury, Chief Administrative Officer for Missoula County, for a review of what went down. Learn more and see what bills Missoula County weighed in on during this session at missoulacountyvoice.com.Text us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

This week, the Agenda takes on true crime in Missoula County. Since its inception in 2019, the Missoula County Sheriff's Office Cold Case unit has solved seven cases of homicides or unidentified remains.The commissioners spoke with Ryan Prather, captain of the Detective Division at the Missoula County Sheriff's Office. Captain Prather also coordinates the volunteer Search and Rescue and Cold Case divisions, who work tirelessly for all county residents.Text us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Do you know who to call if there's a bat in your house? What if you're concerned about the welfare of a pet in your neighborhood?From sheltering strays and adopting out cats and dogs, Missoula Animal Services staff work to ensure the health and safety of animals in Missoula County. This week, the Missoula County Commissioners spoke with Holli Hargrove, manager of MAS, to talk about the exciting new remodel of the shelter and much more.Text us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

From its roots as a county agency to leading cutting-edge educational programs, the Missoula Art Museum has grown a lot since its inception in 1975. This week, the commissioners sat down with Laura Millin who has been at the helm of the free contemporary art museum since 1990. As she prepares to retire this year, they look back on the history and unique character of this beloved nonprofit. Text us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Montana currently has only one passenger train line: The Empire Builder, which runs along the Hi-Line in the northern part of the state. That wasn't always the case – and the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority is looking to reinstate a former southern route that would connect towns and cities to each other and neighboring states.This week the commissioners were joined by Dan Bucks to discuss the status of expanding passenger train service, the potential economic benefits and much more. Text us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Public Works Officer Shane Stack started working for the Montana Department of Transportation as a teenager and came to Missoula County in 2019. As Shane prepares to retire this summer, he reflected on the challenges facing public infrastructure, the ill-fated 2020 gas tax and how his department has gotten creative with funding solutions. Related links:Snow plow routes map (works best on desktop)Report a road maintenance concernBridge maintenance updatesText us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Transportation planner Aaron Wilson is back on The Agenda this week to talk about how the Missoula Metropolitan Planning Organization leverages federal funding for critical upgrades to roads and bridges. Aaron and the commissioners discuss traffic congestion, bypasses and how detailed planning gives Missoula an advantage during the federal grant process.Links mentioned in this episode:Reserve Street Safety Action PlanMissoula Long-Range Transportation Plan UpdateListen to Aaron's previous episodes:The Infamous Reserve Street, 2024Reserve Street: The Sequel, 2024Text us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

We probably know what comes to mind when you hear "health department." But there is much more to Missoula Public Health than infectious disease monitoring. From air quality to restaurant inspections to the WIC program, the work of MPH undoubtedly affects your life and your health.This week the commissioners spoke with Jeanna Miller, Chief Health Officer at MPH, about how your city-county health department works to ensure healthy conditions for all residents.Text us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

The Clark Fork and its headwaters represent a duality of incredible fish habitat and miles of former mines and industrial sites. More than 20 years after it began, the restoration of Ninemile Creek west of Missoula has delivered promising results, and not just for the trout.  This week, the commissioners met with Paul Parson, Montana restoration director at Trout Unlimited, to talk mining history, environmental stewardship and how TU is facilitating the clean up former mine sites across the West. Clark Fork River projectsNinemile Valley abandoned mine restorationText us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

This week the commissioners welcome Missoula Mayor Andrea Davis back to the podcast to talk about a topic that affects all city and county residents: housing. What role does local government play in addressing this complex and difficult issue? What is the City of Missoula doing right now to help more residents continue to call Missoula their home?  Tune in for a thoughtful discussion about current and future solutions.Text us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Every two years, the Montana Legislature meets for 90 days to pass bills and the statewide budget. Bills become laws and dictate policy on everything from taxes to healthcare access and more. Starting in January, 100 representatives and 50 senators will meet in Helena to work together in committees and hearings to address issues that matter to all Montanans. This week, the commissioners spoke with Missoula Rep. Mark Thane about his predictions for the session, his insights on school funding and what types of tax relief are on the table.This is a longer episode with lots of tax talk. Click here for a refresher on tax vocabulary.Text us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

The commissioners recently approved the creation of a new targeted economic development district, at the site of an old gravel pit between Reserve St. and I-90. These districts, often referred to as TEDDs, use tax increment financing to invest in necessary improvements to infrastructure.Have we lost you already? There's a lot of confusion around what increment financing does or does not do. This week, the commissioners sat down with Andrew Hagemeier, director of Community and Economic Development, to get to the bottom of TEDDs and TIF.Related links:Grant Creek Crossing TEDDWye 2 TEDDText us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Missoula County residents are lucky to live in proximity to multiple rivers and creeks, but this also means increase risks of flooding. Missoula County is currently working with both state and federal agencies to update floodplain maps for the Clark Fork River, the Bitterroot River and Rock Creek. But what exactly is the floodplain, and why are updated maps needed? Recently, the Missoula County commissioners spoke with Matt Heimel, floodplain administrator for Missoula County, and Adriane Beck, director of the Missoula County Office of Emergency Management. Adriane and Matt answer these questions and help decode the many acronyms around the floodplain mapping process. Visit missoulacountyvoice.com to learn more about this process.Text us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

"Selling Marshall Mountain could reduce property taxes." "Any town in the county can incorporate if they want to." "County residents subsidize the City of Missoula." Have you heard these statements before? Are they true or false? This week the commissioners spoke with Chris Lounsbury, chief administrative officer for Missoula County, to get to the bottom of these myths and others. Have you heard a rumor about county government? Visit missoulacountyvoice.com to submit it and see if it's true!Text us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

You've heard (and maybe even experienced) how difficult it is to find accessible and affordable childcare. While this is certainly a problem across the nation, what can be done right here in Montana, or even in Missoula County, to address this vital need?This week, the commissioners sat down with Grace Decker, educator and coordinator for the Montana Advocates for Children, to discuss the importance of investing in early childhood services and what creative solutions are happening in our community and across the state. Links mentioned in this episode:Montana Advocates for ChildrenMissoula Childcare AdvantageZero to Five MissoulaHidden Cost of Child Care calculatorReport | Lost Possibilities: The Impacts of Inadequate Childcare on Montana's Families, Employers and EconomyText us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

From programming to paint to pesticide disposal, Home ReSource has just about everything you may need to start or finish a project around your home. Last month, staff from Missoula Public Health and Home ReSource celebrated the opening of the much-anticipated household chemical disposal facility.  This week, the commissioners spoke with director Kelli Hess about what constitutes household chemical waste, the benefits of buying second-hand building materials and much more. Related links: Waste Wizard Household Chemical Disposal Sign up for Last Best Haz Waste Days, Sept 6-7, 2024Missoula Valley Water Quality District  Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

You've heard the saying: plan for the worst and hope for the best. But when it comes to emergency planning, what does that actually mean? If a wildfire starts near your property, do you know where to look for information? What's the difference between an evacuation warning and an evacuation order?This week, the commissioners had a very timely conversation with Adriane Beck, director of the Office of Emergency Management, about how to talk to your household about your emergency plan, why you should sign up for Smart911 and much more. Links mentioned in this episode:Sign up for Smart911“Go bag” or emergency kit checklistMiller Peak fire informationPre-disaster mitigation plan - 2024Ready.gov - Emergency preparedness resources Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

In 2021, the Centers for Disease Control awarded a $1.8 million grant to Partnership Health Center to set up a community health worker program in partnership with Missoula Public Health and All Nations Health Center. Since then, this team of seven has helped more than 500 clients. But what exactly does a community health worker do?This week, the Missoula County Commissioners spoke with Eileen Lamble, a community health worker, and McKenzie Javorka, program evaluator from the University of Montana, about how this program helps marginalized individuals re-connect to healthcare services. Links mentioned in this episode:Community Health Worker StoryMapTraining program at the University of Montana Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

2024 marks the 50th anniversary of The Poverello Center, Missoula's nonprofit homelessness shelter and advocacy organization. This week the Missoula County Commissioners spoke with Jill Bonny, director of the Pov, about the history, changing demographics and current challenges of serving individuals in need of housing, food and human connection. Related episodes: "The Economic Impact of Homelessness in Missoula",  May 22, 2024.Related links:Housing Solutions FundTemporary Safe Outdoor SpaceVolunteer at the Pov Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Homelessness has been at the center of local, regional and national debate in recent years, with tensions rising between residents, advocates, business owners and politicians. This week, local economist Bryce Ward joined the Missoula County commissioners to discuss the findings of his most recent report, “Economic Impact of Homelessness in Missoula.” In this episode, they answer questions like “how does Missoula's homeless population compare to other communities in Montana?” and “what does homelessness look like in rural areas?” Bryce also addresses common myths about the demographics of homelessness, plus the surprising link between our social lives and our personal stability. Reports and resources mentioned in this episode:Economic Impact of Homelessness in Missoula, 2024Housing Solutions Fund, administered by United Way of Missoula CountyStatewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness in California, 2023American Time Use Survey data from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Rivers are thawing, the call of the western meadowlark is floating through air, and other signs of spring are emerging in Missoula County. Maybe you're inspired to pick up some plants for your patio, start an herb garden or even raise some livestock on your property. But where do you begin?The Missoula County Department of Ecology and Extension can help you with all of this and more. From their new headquarters at the G.W. Marks Exploration Center, down to the Lolo Mosquito District and up to the Clearwater Watercraft Inspection site, Ecology and Extension staff are experts in land resources and management.This week the commissioners sat down with Bryce Christiaens, self-described plant nerd and director of this department, to hear about what programs are available to residents.If you're looking for more information on how the G.W. Marks Exploration Center came to be, click here to listen to this episode from 2022. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

The Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, located minutes from downtown Missoula, is part of the Lolo National Forest. Many know the Rattlesnake as Missoula's backyard, offering ample outdoor recreation opportunities and access to the adjoining wilderness area. But did you know that in the 1930s there were homes, mines, a school and telephone lines scattered through the forest?This week, the commissioners were joined by Andy Kulla, the former Recreation Area and Wilderness Manager for the Rattlesnake. Andy details how the grassroots efforts to preserve the area from development led to its designation by Congress in 1980. They also discuss how changes in the logging industry, wildfire research and recreation trends influence public land management.Related links:Learn more about the ongoing Lolo National Forest Management Plan Revision and upcoming engagement opportunitiesRead the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness Act of 1980 Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Andrea Davis was elected as the 52nd Mayor of the City of Missoula in Nov. 2023 and in her first few months of office she has been addressing the hot topics of housing, homelessness, public meetings and other issues. This week the Missoula County Commissioners caught up with Mayor Davis to discuss what has surprised her since taking office, how the city and county governments collaborate for their constituents and so much more.  Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

When disasters like wildfires, floods and hazardous waste spills strike, Missoula County is ready to respond, thanks to the work of the Office of Emergency Management and the Western Montana Incident Management Team. On this week's podcast, the commissioners sit down with Deputy Disaster and Emergency Services Coordinators Nick Holloway and Ken Parks to talk about their recent deployment to help with recovery efforts in wildfire-ravaged Lahaina, Maui. They also discuss the importance of being prepared for emergencies on both the personal and government levels, and how the inter-state partnerships help strengthen communities across the country following disasters.  Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Domestic violence, also often referred to as intimate partner violence, can be difficult to address and has lasting effects on individuals, families and communities. Missoula County's Just Response program, made up of mental and medical health professionals, law enforcement, advocacy groups, child protection and criminal justice organizations, works to respond to DV cases and increase overall community safety. The commissioners recently sat down with Erin Shreder, Just Response coordinator, to discuss the tangible results of this inter-agency collective, the upstream causes of domestic violence and more.  This episode deals with difficult topics like relationship and domestic violence. The Crime Victim Advocate Division of Missoula County is here to help you. Please call 406-258-3830 or visit their office at 317 Woody Street. YWCA Missoula is another resource and their crisis line is 1-800-483-7858.Related links and resources:Strangulation ProtocolFirst Step Resource CenterAll Nations Health CenterUniversity of Montana Student Advocacy Resource CenterNational Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673 Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

The Agenda's foray into transportation issues continues this week with Shane Stack, director of Missoula County Public Works, and Erik Dickson, county engineer.With the recent closure of Maclay Bridge in Target Range, residents have a lot of questions about how we got here. The commissioners, Shane and Erik tackle those questions and much more in this episode. Be sure to follow this project on Missoula County Voice for more updates and information.This episode has a lot of acronyms and engineering terms, so here's a guide for you, in alphabetical order:BIP: The Bridge Improvement Program, a funding opportunity administered by the Federal Highway Administration.Categorical exclusion, also called a CE or Cat Ex: A finding of a National Environmental Protection Act process that determines a project has no significant effect on the human environment. If a CE is granted, the project does not need an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement.  Creosote: A material derived from tar that is used to preserve wood.EA: Environmental assessment. If a categorical exclusion does not apply to a project, then an environmental assessment must be developed before the project can move forward. This is a public document that provides sufficient evidence and analysis for determining whether the project meets the criteria for a Finding of No Significant Environmental Impact (FONSI) or if an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is needed. Environmental Impact Statement (EIS): Federal agencies prepare an Environmental Impact Statement if a project is determined to significantly affect the quality of the human environment. The regulatory requirements for an EIS are more detailed and rigorous than the requirements for an EA.FHWA: The Federal Highway Administration, a division of the federal Department of Transportation.FONSI document: Finding of No Significant Impact. A FONSI document is the decision document of an EA and is signed by the federal agency.  HDR: An engineering firm employed by both Missoula County and MDT to assist with bridge planning.Load rating: The amount of weight a structure can safely carry. A load posted or load limited bridge is restricted by its load rating.Local option gas tax: A voter-approved 2-cent tax on gas sold within Missoula County. Revenue from this tax was specifically designated for road and bridge improvements. County residents approved this measure in 2020, but the state repealed in 2021. MDT: Montana Department of Transportation, the state's transportation agencyNEPA: National Environmental Protection Act, passed in 1970 to promote and protect the environment. Click here for the full glossary. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

This week the Missoula County Commissioners continue their discussion with transportation planner Aaron Wilson. They discuss the concept of 15 minute cities and how creating diverse, accessible transportation choices can reduce traffic congestion. Aaron also gives updates on the safety studies and plans for accommodating growth in areas like Brooks Street in Missoula and Highway 200 in East Missoula.Don't miss part two of this series on planning, traffic and transportation! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

In the latest episode of The Agenda, we answer common questions about everyone's favorite street in Missoula (bonus points if you listen while stuck in traffic on Reserve!) Aaron Wilson, transportation planning manager from the Missoula Metropolitan Planning Organization, joined the county commissioners this week to answer questions like: Is Reserve Street really home to the most dangerous intersections in Missoula? Can infrastructure changes actually decrease traffic?In this episode, they discuss the evolution of Reserve Street, problems with pedestrian safety, and the role of the  Missoula Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) in coordinating transportation efforts across jurisdictions. Don't miss part one of this two-part series on planning, traffic and transportation. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

This week the commissioners reviewed memorable projects from 2023, including those that address homelessness, affordable housing, recreation opportunities and much more. Tune in for a conversation that covers everything from property taxes to new parking lots to wildfire prep.Do you have something you'd like the commissioners to discuss in 2024? Email communications@missoulacounty.us! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

The holiday season means more travel and celebration, but it also means an increased risk of impaired driving. Do you have a plan for a sober ride home?This week the commissioners spoke with Justice of the Peace Landee Holloway and Health Specialist Steve Schmidt about recent impaired driving trends in Missoula County and what resources are available to residents.Substance Abuse Treatment ResourcesDrive Safe MissoulaR.O.A.D CourtNo Joke Theatre Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Tax bills have landed in mailboxes and many residents are frustrated, confused and concerned. Why are property taxes so high? How did we get here? The commissioners discuss the topic of the tax system in Montana and what potential solutions could look like in this week's episode of The Agenda.Related links:What Do My Taxes Pay For?View your tax bill onlineThe Re-Appraisal Process Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Did you know the Missoula County Sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer, as well as the coroner, and oversees the office responsible for serving civil paperwork? Did you also know that Sheriff Jeremiah Petersen was on the 1995 Montana Grizzlies national championship football team?This week, the commissioners spoke with Sheriff Petersen about everything from jury summons to predictions for the Cat-Griz game and how his department is addressing the need for increased deputy patrol in rural areas. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Local government is a large, busy organization. Who makes sure all payments the County makes are to the right vendors and are for legitimate county expenses? This week, the commissioners talked with Missoula County Auditor Dave Wall about safeguarding taxpayer dollars, fraud detection and the importance of internal financial controls.  Related links:County claims listCounty policies Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

New name, same great local government podcast. We've rebranded to The Agenda! With 67 episodes and more than 7,000 downloads since it launched in 2021, the commissioners' podcast was due for a refresh. If you're already subscribed, there's no change to how you listen.This week, Commissioners Slotnick and Strohmaier sat down with Missoula County Housing Specialist Garrick Harmel to talk about what local government can do to reduce displacement while incentivizing the construction of affordable places to live.Related links:Housing Innovation FundHousing Action Plan: Breaking Ground Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

“County government is funded mostly by taxpayer money.” “If Missoula County didn't spend any more money next year, taxes would stop going up.” Have you heard this before? Are these statements true or false? This week the commissioners spoke with Chris Lounsbury, chief administrative officer for Missoula County, about budgeting, taxing and government spending. Tune in to this week's episode for some myth-busting with a side of tax policy.Related links:FY 2024 Budget PageCommissioner's Public Meeting PortalSee budgets from previous years Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Marshall Mountain, located between East Missoula and Bonner, has been a haven for locals to enjoy the outdoors since the early 20th century. Now, there's an opportunity to secure the base area of the former ski hill and surrounding areas for public ownership. But this potential park has a lot of moving parts: three different pieces of land with separate private owners, two governments, two public processes for open space bond funding, management considerations and more.This week, the commissioners talked to Chet Crowser, Chief Lands & Communities Officer for Missoula County, and Donna Gaukler, Director of Parks & Recreation for the City of Missoula, about the scope of this project and what's next for this beloved area.Related links:Marshall Mountain Park on missoulacountyvoice.comOpen Space Bond FAQsFriends of Marshall Mountain Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

The Western Montana Fair is more than just rides and fried food. The Missoula County Fairgrounds is one of the few public gathering places that unites people from all backgrounds every summer. This week, the commissioners spoke to Jerry Marks, the county extension agent, and Billie Ayers, events and operations manager at the fairgrounds, about the history of this hallmark event and what's in store for the 2023 Western Montana Fair. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Seeley Lake is an unincorporated town with a population of about 1,600 in the northern part of Missoula County. Located between the Mission and Swan mountain ranges and dotted with narrow, glacial lakes, the Seeley area is synonymous with recreation and beautiful landscapes.Thousands of people visit Seeley Lake each summer, but what's it like to be a year-round resident, or own a business there? This week, the commissioners sat down with Claire Muller, director of the Seeley Lake Community Foundation, to talk about the unique challenges and misconceptions about this rural community.Related links:Seeley Lake Community FoundationSeeley Lake Community Council"Tip of the Spear" is the ethos that guides our work at Missoula County. It reminds us to lead with innovation, represents our can-do culture and encourages us to work toward solutions even for challenging issues. The "Tip of the Spear" podcast aims to tell the stories of how we do that. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Whether you're a seasoned floater or you've never sat in an inner tube, the River Ambassadors are here to help! Each summer, these friendly faces help recreators of all kinds navigate access points along the Clark Fork, Blackfoot and Bitterroot rivers. Now in its third summer, the river ambassador program is the result of collaboration between Missoula County, City of Missoula, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, and the Clark Fork Coalition. Tune in to hear more about this successful program and tips for a great day on the water.Related links:Clark Fork Coalition - River Ambassadors ProgramRiver Ambassadors on InstagramSha-Ron Parking Access ProjectClark Fork River Map - Downtown LocationsFish, Wildlife and Parks Interactive Map of Fishing Access Points"Tip of the Spear" is the ethos that guides our work at Missoula County. It reminds us to lead with innovation, represents our can-do culture and encourages us to work toward solutions even for challenging issues. The "Tip of the Spear" podcast aims to tell the stories of how we do that. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

One of Missoula County's major initiatives is to address systemic issues of inequity in our community. But what does that really mean, and what does it look like? This week, the commissioners sat down with Elisha Buchholz (equity coordinator at Missoula County), Rozlyn Haley (justice, equity, diversity and inclusion fellow at Missoula County) and Rajiem Seabrook (director of equity and impact at Empower Montana) for an update on justice, equity, diversity and inclusion (JEDI) efforts.Related linksJEDI Advisory Board2021 JEDI ResolutionJustice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Missoula County"Tip of the Spear" is the ethos that guides our work at Missoula County. It reminds us to lead with innovation, represents our can-do culture and encourages us to work toward solutions even for challenging issues. The "Tip of the Spear" podcast aims to tell the stories of how we do that. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Property taxes are defined by multiple sets of rules, calculations and inaccessible words like "mill" and "levy." How much is a mill worth, and what's the limit on how many mills local government can collect? Who determines how much your house is worth? What if there was a way visitors could pay for the services they use when they visit our community that would lower your property taxes at the same time?In this episode, Commissioner Slotnick breaks down the taxing system, how it relates to the County budget and what to expect when you get your re-appraisal notice from the state this summer.   Related links:Montana Dept. of Revenue - Property Assessment DivisionHow to Read Your AppraisalHow to Appeal Your Appraisal Learn more about the County budget process"Tip of the Spear" is the ethos that guides our work at Missoula County. It reminds us to lead with innovation, represents our can-do culture and encourages us to work toward solutions even for challenging issues. The "Tip of the Spear" podcast aims to tell the stories of how we do that. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

In late 2021, the Missoula County commissioners asked the newly formed Department of Lands and Economic Development to inventory and assess the utility of all 260+ county-owned properties. Emily Brock, director of that department, joined the commissioners this week to debut the inventory mapping tool, explain how the parcels are assessed based on six factors, talk about next steps and how the assessment will be used to make decisions.Follow along with the interactive mapping tool and submit feedback online: https://missoulacountyvoice.com/lands-inventory"Tip of the Spear" is the ethos that guides our work at Missoula County. It reminds us to lead with innovation, represents our can-do culture and encourages us to work toward solutions even for challenging issues. The "Tip of the Spear" podcast aims to tell the stories of how we do that. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

What happens when you call 9-1-1? Why does the person on the other line ask so many questions? April 9-15 is Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, an opportunity to recognize and thank the 9-1-1 dispatchers who work around the clock every day as the first point of emergency response.  This week, Commissioner Strohmaier and a special guest host sat down with Sherri Odlin, 9-1-1 manager, and Adriane Beck, director of the Office of Emergency Management, to talk about what it's like dispatching 9-1-1 calls, how technology has changed this process and their most memorable calls.  Missoula County is hiring Public Safety Communications Officers! Click here to see the full job description."Tip of the Spear" is the ethos that guides our work at Missoula County. It reminds us to lead with innovation, represents our can-do culture and encourages us to work toward solutions even for challenging issues. The "Tip of the Spear" podcast aims to tell the stories of how we do that. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

With warmer weather on the way (eventually), some residents may be planning home improvement projects. Did you know that you need a permit to re-roof your home? Or that some projects require a sanitation review from the Missoula City-County Health Department? The permitting process may seem daunting, but county staff are here to help ensure your next project is compliant and safe.Commissioner Slotnick sat down with Rita Hagler from the Building Division of Public Works, and Nick Zanetos from the Planning, Development and Sustainability Department this week to talk about all things permitting.Be sure to check out missoulacounty.build to get started!"Tip of the Spear" is the ethos that guides our work at Missoula County. It reminds us to lead with innovation, represents our can-do culture and encourages us to work toward solutions even for challenging issues. The "Tip of the Spear" podcast aims to tell the stories of how we do that. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

The site of the former Smurfit-Stone pulp mill, located west of Missoula near Frenchtown, spans 3,200 acres. The mill operated from 1957 to 2010, creating paper products from logging industry scraps and used 15 million gallons of water per day to operate. At its height, the mill was processing 1,900 tons of bleached paper products each day.What remains now are 900 acres of unlined wastewater treatment ponds, 193 acres of sludge and garbage dumps and 100 acres of industrial buildings. Given the size and scope of the site, it is unknown exactly what contaminants exist and in what quantities. Elena Evans of the Missoula Valley Water Quality District sat down with the commissioners this week to discuss what lies ahead for Smurfit-Stone, how the Environmental Protection Agency is involved, the threat of flooding and much more.Image: Aerial view of Smurfit-Stone retaining ponds and the Clark Fork River in 2018, photo by Chris Boyer of Kestrel Aerial Services.Links mentioned in this episode:Smurfit-Stone Story MapFrenchtown/Smurfit-Stone Community Advisory GroupMissoula County Water Quality District history of Smurfit-StoneEnvironmental Protection Agency's Smurfit-Stone profileRecent news articles about Smurfit-Stone:"Missoula County Objects to Change in Smurfit Water Right, Wants Taxes Paid" Missoula Current, March 7, 2023"How Toxic Are the Grounds of a Former Pulp Mill Along the Clark Fork River?" MTPR, Jan. 26, 2023"Tip of the Spear" is the ethos that guides our work at Missoula County. It reminds us to lead with innovation, represents our can-do culture and encourages us to work toward solutions even for challenging issues. The "Tip of the Spear" podcast aims to tell the stories of how we do that. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

Every day we're inundated with economic forecasts related to inflation, layoffs, remote work and unemployment. But what is happening here in Missoula County? Does it reflect national trends? How does a desirable place like ours foster more jobs without sacrificing the values that make it so desirable in the first place? This week, the commissioners spoke with Grant Kier, director of the Missoula Economic Partnership. Kier spoke to local employment rates, how to balance growth, quality of life, housing access and more.Links mentioned in this episode:Big Sky Economic Development Trust FundMEP Strategic Plan, 2022-2026"Tip of the Spear" is the ethos that guides our work at Missoula County. It reminds us to lead with innovation, represents our can-do culture and encourages us to work toward solutions even for challenging issues. The "Tip of the Spear" podcast aims to tell the stories of how we do that. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

This week, commissioner Strohmaier gives an update on the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority. The rail authority is a division of state government that encompasses 19 counties in Montana that are working to bring back passenger train service in the southern part of the state. 2023 is a major year for this effort: the U.S. Department of Transportation is studying which inactive rail lines could be restored. The North Coast Hiawatha stretched from Chicago to Seattle and passed through Missoula County until 1979, when the line was discontinued. Listen to this episode to learn more about how tribal communities and private businesses are involved and what's next for the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority.Learn more at bigskyrail.org."Tip of the Spear" is the ethos that guides our work at Missoula County. It reminds us to lead with innovation, represents our can-do culture and encourages us to work toward solutions even for challenging issues. The "Tip of the Spear" podcast aims to tell the stories of how we do that. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

A slew of new tax credits, rebates and incentives encouraging investment in energy efficiency are now in effect. What does this mean for renters, homeowners and small business owners in Missoula County?This week the commissioners sat down with Caroline Bean and Andrew Valainis from the Department of Planning, Development and Sustainability to talk about Missoula County's sustainable energy goals and how these new incentives help residents and businesses of all types.Links mentioned in this episode:ElectrifyMissoula.orgRewiringAmerica.orgMissoula.co/sustainabilityClimate Ready Missoula"Tip of the Spear" is the ethos that guides our work at Missoula County. It reminds us to lead with innovation, represents our can-do culture and encourages us to work toward solutions even for challenging issues. The "Tip of the Spear" podcast aims to tell the stories of how we do that. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

The Missoula Human Trafficking Task Force is a vast network that spans law enforcement at all levels, nonprofit organizations, schools, hospitals and others. Together these groups work to educate the public, expose traffickers and support victims in healing. This week, the commissioners sat down with Ryan Prather of the Missoula County Sheriff's Office to learn about this complex issue. Prather oversees Sheriff's Office detectives who specialize in criminal investigations, including child exploitation and human trafficking. This episode mentions difficult topics like relationship and sexual violence.  The Crime Victim Advocate Division of Missoula County is here to help you. Please call 406-258-3830 or visit their office at 317 Woody Street. YWCA Missoula is another resource and their crisis line is 1-800-483-7858. Get more information at the Missoula Human Trafficking Task Force website. Additional resources include:All Nations Health Center and Missoula Project BeaconYWCA MissoulaFirst Step Resource Center406stop.com, Montana State Human Trafficking HotlineThank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!"Tip of the Spear" is the ethos that guides our work at Missoula County. It reminds us to lead with innovation, represents our can-do culture and encourages us to work toward solutions even for challenging issues. The "Tip of the Spear" podcast aims to tell the stories of how we do that. Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!

As 2022 comes to an end, the Missoula County commissioners sat down with Missoula City Mayor Jordan Hess to discuss lessons learned and what they're looking forward to in 2023. They reflect on notable collaborations from this year and how a strong partnership between municipal governments enables solutions for our community.Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!"Tip of the Spear" is the ethos that guides our work at Missoula County. It reminds us to lead with innovation, represents our can-do culture and encourages us to work toward solutions even for challenging issues. The "Tip of the Spear" podcast aims to tell the stories of how we do that.