9/14/26 Kalispell City Council Session

The City of Kalispell, Montana City Council held a work session on September 14, 2026, focusing primarily on two key topics: the potential use of city-owned property for affordable housing development and the regulation of short-term rentals. Council members discussed the possibility of leveraging vacant city lots and acquiring larger parcels, particularly within the West Side Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district, to support deed-restricted affordable housing projects. Various funding options were considered, including the use of TIF funds and selling existing city parking lots, though there was significant debate about the timing and fiscal impact of such acquisitions. The council expressed a preference to await the results of an upcoming housing study to better inform decisions. On short-term rentals, the council reviewed current statistics showing that Ward 3 slightly exceeds the city's 2% cap on short-term rentals. Proposals included applying the cap at the ward level and grandfathering existing rentals, but there was no consensus to change current policies. The discussion highlighted concerns about neighborhood character, housing availability, and the economic benefits of short-term rentals. No formal votes were recorded during the session, but the council generally agreed to direct staff to monitor housing needs and potential property acquisitions post-housing study. The meeting also included public comments and updates on other city projects such as the new fire station and parking garage planning.