Commissioners' Public Meeting August 13, 2026

The Missoula County Commissioners held a public meeting on August 13, 2026, addressing several land use and infrastructure matters. Key procurement-related discussions included approval of a family transfer and aggregation exemption for a residential property subdivision by Tyler Loabower, allowing development of two residential tracts with individual well and septic systems. The commissioners also approved the establishment of the Blackfoot Crossing Water and Sewer District, a new county water and sewer district petitioned by property owner Gregory Morse, which will enable future financing and management of water and sewer infrastructure for a housing development project. Additionally, the meeting featured a detailed presentation and subsequent approval of impact fees proposed by the Missoula Rural Fire District. These one-time fees on new developments within the district are intended to fund capital improvements such as new fire stations and apparatus to support growth-related demand. Public comments raised concerns about the impact of fees on housing affordability and the need to balance service levels for existing residents. The commissioners emphasized that the water and sewer district creation is an initial procedural step distinct from tax increment financing and broader development approvals.