Big Sky, Mont. – Big Sky Fire Department has been awarded a $75,000 competitive grant from Coalitions and Collaboratives Inc., a national nonprofit that offers grants through its Action, Implementation and Mitigation Program. The purpose of this grant is to accelerate fire adaptation concepts and reduce the risk from wildfire by increasing capacity and on-the-ground work.

This grant will fund “The Jack Creek Evacuation Road Project”, which will create an effective shaded fuel break along Jack Creek Road to increase safety. Jack Creek Road is the only road from Big Sky heading west and out of the Madison Mountain Range into the valley near Ennis, Montana. “Wildfire preparedness, especially related to firefighter and public safety is a year-round job and the more we can do now the better we will be when the wildfire occurs,” said Greg Megaard, Chief, Big Sky Fire Department.

Moonlight Basin is providing $100,000 match for this project, and another $144,000 for wildfire risk reduction on the South Side Road adjacent to and south of Jack Creek Road. In addition to the large commitment in 2022, Moonlight Basin will provide an additional $200,000 toward wildfire mitigation in the area to be deployed in 2023 and beyond.

“As drought persists, it is incumbent that we invest in proactive wildfire risk reduction efforts that respect the land, enhance forest health, and keep people safe,” said Kevin Germain, Vice President of Moonlight Basin. “The Big Sky Fire Department should be applauded for its extensive proactive planning to prevent wildfires and keep Southwest Montana safe. We are proud to join with the Big Sky Fire Department on this project.”

The Big Sky Fire Department provided letters of support from the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Madison Ranger District, and Madison County Office of Emergency Management to aid their Jack Creek Evacuation Road grant application.

“A completed shaded fuel break along this road provides a larger safety margin for people evacuating as well as fire personnel responding to the incident as this is the main artery in and out of Big Sky from the west,” said Dale Olson, District Ranger for the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest and Madison Ranger District.

“The Jack Creek Evacuation Road Project is a step in the right direction to provide safe egress in the event of a human or natural caused disaster,” said Joseph Brummell, the Madison County Director of Disaster and Emergency Services.

About COCO:

Since inception in 2018, Coalitions and Collaboratives Inc. (COCO) has supported over 90 organizations. COCO hopes to increase community resilience, restore fire-adapted ecosystems and create safer conditions for residents and firefighters. This funding opportunity is open to organizations working to advance wildfire risk reduction. More information can be found here: https://co-co.org/get-involved/grants/aim-grant/

After a clerical error negated the results of two local-option marijuana tax ballot questions in the June primary election, Gallatin County voters will be again asked to decide on the two taxes, but this time as part of the November general election.

On Tuesday, July 26, the Gallatin County Commission unanimously voted to add the following two questions to the November ballot for Gallatin County voters’ consideration:
• A 3% local-option sales tax on all non-medical (recreational) marijuana products sold in 
   Gallatin County.
• A 3% local-option sales tax on all medical marijuana products sold in Gallatin County.

In June, the commissioners put the same two questions on the primary election ballot and both measures were passed by voters.

However, the county failed to meet the unique notice requirements obligated by the Montana Legislature for local-option marijuana tax ballot questions. Due to this error, commissioners did not certify the election results of these two ballot questions as part of the post-election canvass.

So while the two ballot questions will be identical to what voters saw on their June ballots, they are NOT in addition to any other local taxes as they were not certified in June.

“It seems very straight-forward and common sense to put these on the ballot again,” said Gallatin County Commissioner Zach Brown.

In November 2020, Montana voters passed Initiative Measure 190, which allowed for the operation of various categories of marijuana businesses and taxation of marijuana retail sales in Montana counties in which a majority of voters approved the initiative. The initiative passed in Gallatin County with 65.6% of the vote.

State law does not allow county governments to impose similar taxes on any other product. The state already imposes at 20% tax on recreational marijuana and a 4% percent tax on medical marijuana.

If voters in an eligible county pass a local-option marijuana tax, 50% of the tax must be retained by the county, 45% apportioned to the cities and towns in the county based on population, and the remaining 5% given to the Montana Department of Revenue to defray state costs associated with the tax.

State law allows counties or cities and towns that receive local-option sales tax revenue for any activity, undertaking or administrative service authorized by law, including costs resulting from the imposition of the tax.

If passed, the local-option taxes would go into effect on March 1, 2023. Gallatin County Commissioners say that, if passed, they will use the county’s portion of the local taxes to fund mental health services.

The Gallatin County Commission is considering asking voters to decide on a mill levy to fund operations of the Gallatin Rest Home, the soon-to-be only skilled nursing facility in the county.

On Tuesday, July 26, commissioners unanimously passed a resolution of intent to put a 9-mill levy on the November general election ballot. Nine mills would raise, at the fiscal year 2022 value, $3,933,459 annually.

A resolution of intent sets a public hearing for a decision on an item the commission is considering, and gives notice so that the public can participate in the decision-making process.

Commissioners will formally consider adding the question to the November ballot at their Aug. 9 regularly-scheduled public meeting.

The Gallatin County Rest Home is a 69-bed, state-licensed nursing facility certified to provide skilled Medicare/Medicaid coverage providing long term, respite, hospice and rehabilitation care. It is located at 1221 Durston Rd. in Bozeman.“We’re extremely proud of the high-quality care that we provide our most vulnerable citizens close to home,” said Gallatin County Rest Home Administrator Darcel Vaughn. “We look forward to educating the community on the needed medical services our facility offers.”

Currently, the Rest Home is funded by a combination of non-tax revenues and the county’s general operating mill.

Gallatin County is facing financial hardship in funding the Rest Home and providing a high level of patient care for various reasons, including inadequate Medicare/Medicaid rates that do not sufficiently cover the cost of providing care, rising salary expenses and housing costs that make hiring long-term employees difficult, associated costs for hiring contract nurses to fill vacant positions, the increased costs of food and supplies, and the continued need to pay for building maintenance and repairs.

Gallatin County Commissioners agreed that the time is ripe for the community to weigh in and for voters to decide on how the facility is funded moving forward.

“This is a very needed facility and one that I’ve been really proud to be associated with during my time as a commissioner,” said Gallatin County Commissioner Joe Skinner. “It’s a good facility that serves our neediest constituents and one that people want to go to. I can see the value of having a service like that in our community. But that’s just a decision we don’t feel comfortable making without asking the question to the taxpayers.”

If passed, the mill levy would fund operational and capital needs, including, but not limited to, patient care, staffing, food, supplies, and building maintenance and repairs. The $3,933,495, or a similar amount imposed in future years, will provide for a substantial component of the operational and capital needs of the Rest Home and will ensure that this vital service is provided to the public in a professional and competent manner.

For Gallatin County taxpayers, the estimated annual tax increase per $100,000 of assessed value is $12.15.

For Gallatin County property owners, the below table shows the approximate tax impact of the levy depending on the assessed value (NOT market value) of your property. To find your property’s assessed value, visit itax.gallatin.mt.gov.

Assessed Property Value Cost Per Year Cost Per Month
$200,000 $24.30 $2.03
$300,000 $36.45 $3.04
$400,000 $48.60 $4.05
$500,000 $60.75 $5.06
$600,000 $72.90 $6.08
$700,000 $85.05 $7.09
$800,000 $97.20 $8.10
$900,000 $109.35 $9.11
$1,000,000 $121.50 $10.13

The public is encouraged to provide comment in any of the following ways:
•Attend the Tuesday, Aug. 9 public meeting at 9 AM, either in person or on Zoom.
The meeting will take place in the Community Room of the Gallatin County Courthouse, 311 W. Main St. in Bozeman. A Zoom link to the meeting will be posted here on Aug. 4.
• Email comments to commission@gallatin.mt.gov.
• Call the Gallatin County Commission office at 406-582-3000.
• Drop off written comment at the Gallatin County Commission Office, located in room 306 of the Gallatin County Courthouse.

If you're going to your first rave, it's essential to look the part! One of the most critical pieces of rave gear is platform boots. They make you taller and more statuesque and are a vital item in rave party gear. Join us as we find our groove and discuss how to style platform boots for every beat. We'll also give you tips on dressing for a rave party.

A History: Platform Boots in Fashion

Platform boots have been around for centuries, with their origins dating back to the 16th century. In the 1970s, platform boots came back during the disco scene and have been popular ever since.

Today, platform boots are worn by people of all ages and genders as a fashion statement. From gothic to punk to rave, platform boots add an edge to any outfit. They are often seen at music festivals and rave parties.

Platform Boots and Rave Style

Rave culture is all about self-expression and having fun. Platform boots are the perfect way to show off your personality and style. There are many different ways to style platform boots, so you can be sure to find a pair that fits your rave aesthetic.

If you're going to your first rave, it's essential to look the part! One of the most critical pieces of rave gear is platform boots. They make you taller and more statuesque and are a vital item in rave party gear.

What is a Rave?

A rave is an all-night party that features electronic dance music. Raves are often underground and unlicensed, which makes them unique and exciting. Attendees of raves dress in bright, flashy clothing and wear lots of jewelry and body paint.

Tips for Wearing Platform Boots

If you're new to wearing platform boots, you should keep a few things in mind. First, platform boots can be uncomfortable if you're not used to them. It's essential to break them in before the big day so you don't have blisters.

Second, platform boots can be tricky to walk in, so practice before the party. Finally, when choosing your platform boots, be sure to pick a pair that's comfortable but stylish. When wearing platform boots, it's also essential to consider the following:

Regarding platform boots, there are many different styles to choose from. If you want a more grunge look, pair them with ripped shorts and a leather jacket. For a glam look, pair them with a sequin dress or leggings. You can also wear them with skirts for a flirty look. No matter your style, there's sure to be a pair of platform boots that fits your personality.

Styling Platform Boots for the Season

Not only are there many different styles of platform boots for your next rave, but you can also style them for every season. In each case, every outfit will easily layer to a rave atmosphere. Plus, this will allow you to party it up but still use your new favorite shoes in your daily life.

How to Accessorize Platform Boots

In addition to clothing, platform boots can also be styled with different accessories. For example, you can add platform boot socks or leg warmers to create a unique look. You can also find platform boots with different designs, such as spikes or sequins. If you want to add an edge to your outfit, consider pairing your platform boots with a leather jacket or fishnet stockings.

In Closing

Regarding platform boots, don't be afraid to experiment with different styles. With so many options available, platform boots are a versatile and stylish choice. No matter how you style them, platform boots are sure to make a statement at your next rave party. So go out there and find the perfect pair, and don't forget to have fun.

Big Sky, Montana – A new Big Sky website intending to foster citizen engagement and awareness within the community has launched. Navigate Big Sky (www.NavigateBigSky.org) is a web-based tool offering a concise snapshot of community activity. The site is FREE for all who want to use the comprehensive calendar or post an event. “The idea of Navigate Big Sky has been in the works for many years. It is especially useful now that BASE is fully operational. There is more to do in our wonderful community than there is time in the day. This will be a wonderful tool for those in Big Sky asking themselves how and where to get involved,” said Whitney Montgomery, CEO of Big Sky Community Organization.

In late 2019 the Big Sky Resort Area District (BSRAD) funded a multi-year effort engaging thousands of community members producing the “Our Big Sky” Community Vision and Strategy. This framework embodies Big Sky’s core values of people, character, recreation, and natural environment. Building on this community-driven direction, the Big Sky Community Organization (BSCO) hosted a summit with over forty program and activity providers facilitated by the Yellowstone Club Community Foundation (YCCF). The purpose of the summit was to address the community-wide programming gaps, needs, and vision in anticipation of the opening of BASE.
 

These efforts resulted in a common theme: encourage and facilitate citizen engagement and awareness. Navigate Big Sky will serve as a community tool to help foster that connection.

“It has been a challenge identifying and eliminating the barriers for engagement in Big Sky. There are seven Special Purpose Districts ranging in purpose and focus. Many of them were not able to run elections this year due to record low numbers of candidate interest. It is crucial we remain engaged in local government and corresponding elections. Without citizen participation democracy is challenged. We are excited for this new tool which will highlight opportunities for engagement with locally elected officials and other organizations that make Big Sky Better Together,” said Daniel Bierschwale, Executive Director of BSRAD.
 
 We encourage you to use and share this resource as you Navigate Big Sky.

On July 24, 2022, at 9:23 am Gallatin County Dispatch received information that an emergency GPS device had been activated.  The coordinates provided from the GPS device placed it in the Sourdough Trail area.  A later message from the device indicated that a bicyclist had crashed and sustained a laceration to their leg and that the bicyclist was not able to walk out.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue volunteers from the Valley Section and AMR personnel responded to the Sourdough Trailhead.  Search and Rescue volunteers deployed several UTV’s up the trail to meet with the mountain biker.  Volunteers located the patient several miles up the trail where they assessed their injuries and packaged the patient.  The bicyclist was transported back to the trailhead and transferred to the awaiting AMR unit. The patient was ultimately transported to Bozeman Health for further evaluation.

Sheriff Springer would like to commend this mountain biker for carrying a GPS device.  Quick and proper activation not only provided our teams with an accurate location, but the patient was also able to relay information about what happened and injury details.  This type of information can expedite rescue and ensures our crews have all necessary supplies, resulting in a faster and more efficient rescue.

BOZEMAN — Montana State University Extension is accepting applications until Aug. 9 from rural Montana communities to participate in the Reimagining Rural virtual gathering in September and October.

Reimagining Rural brings inspirational stories of success in small towns to local gatherings of community volunteers. Communities gather for three evening events that feature live virtual speakers talking about how to complete projects in rural places. Following the speakers, local groups have a facilitated conversation about how ideas might work in their communities.

“Reimagining Rural has been used to jumpstart conversations about what residents want next for their town,” said Tara Mastel, MSU Extension community development program leader.

For example, in Scobey, she said, community members talked about where to invest community resources. In Cut Bank and Forsyth, they began conversations about a “brand” for their towns. In Valier, it was how to welcome visitors and how to get a younger generation of leaders involved.

“Organizers are encouraged to invite people from all parts of their community to the event, which makes it easy to have a community-wide conversation about their town,” Mastel said.

More than 170 people participated in the Reimagining Rural virtual gathering in 2021 in 23 communities across Montana. The program features speakers who talk about what has been successful in their small towns.

“Hearing from similarly sized communities has inspired many Reimagining Rural participants to take on big, important projects for their town,” Mastel said. “Participants come away inspired to start new projects and engage new volunteers to work toward a more vibrant future for their town.”

Sessions are planned from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sept. 8, Sept. 22 and Oct. 6. The program is free, but communities must apply to participate. Applications are due Aug. 9. To learn more or to download the application, visit msuextension.org/communitydevelopment/reimagine-rural.html. 

Reimagining Rural is a collaboration between MSU Extension and the Montana Community Foundation. For more information, contact Mastel at tara.mastel@montana.edu.

If you find yourself constantly stressing over your finances, it might help to know you’re not alone. Money is a significant cause of concern and stress for a huge number of people. This is particularly true as the cost of living continues to rise, and wages remain stagnant. While everyone’s financial situation is different, it’s important to remember most people can improve their circumstances when it comes to money, often without a lot of compromise or work. Today, we’re going to look at some of the steps you can take to reduce your worries around money.

Know Your Financial Options

Knowledge is power, and that’s certainly the case when it comes to achieving and maintaining financial freedom. Often, when you’re struggling with your finances, it can feel as though you’re stuck in a terrible position with no way out. However, there are more solutions out there than most people realize. If you’re struggling to purchase something crucial, like a new car for work, or a critical appliance for your home, you can always consider using a personal loan to spread out the payments over time. Researching your options in advance will ensure you get the deal best-suited for you.

Create a Budget You Can Follow

Budgeting is something most people don’t feel particularly great about, but it can actually be very empowering when used correctly. Creating a budget you can understand, respect, and follow will ensure you know how much money you can reasonably spend in each part of your life. You won’t have to lie awake worrying you’ve spent too much cash on food or entertainment one week. To ensure you can make the most of your budget, you’ll need to find a strategy that really works for you. Try not to cut all the things you enjoy out of your life. Instead, look for ways to cut down in areas that won’t affect you. You could change your internet or electricity provider.

Start Working on your Emergency Funds

One of the best ways to reduce the feelings of anxiety you may have around money is to ensure you always have something to fall back on if you’re struggling with an unpredicted expense. Although it can be hard to find extra funds for your emergency savings at first, this money will definitely come in handy in the long-term. You may even want to consider cutting down on the savings you put towards your other long-term goals initially until you’ve created a buffer that helps you to feel more comfortable and content. Most experts recommend having about 3 months’ worth of wages saved.

Give Yourself a Break

Finally, it’s worth being realistic about you can reasonably achieve with your finances and being kind to yourself when you feel you’re not reaching your financial goals. Same as its important to find natural pain relief for certain health ailments you should strive to find financial solutions that feel natural and authentic to you and your life. Everyone over-spends from time to time, and we all worry we don’t have enough cash in our savings sometimes too. Avoid comparing yourself to other people in your life and their financial situation, and remember you’re doing your best. If you make a mistake, try to learn from it and avoid allowing the same problems to happen again in the future.

LIVINGSTON – Due to an imminent safety concern, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is closing the Yellowstone River from the Mayor’s Landing Fishing Access Site (FAS) to Sheep Mountain FAS, which is about an 8-mile stretch of the river and includes the Highway 89 Bridge FAS.

Mayor’s Landing FAS will remain open for take-out access for river users, and Sheep Mountain will remain open for launching.

FWP is working closely with the Montana Department of Transportation, which reports the railway bridge near U.S. Highway 89 that crosses the Yellowstone River east of Livingston is dangerously close to falling into the water.

The closure will remain in effect until the safety issues are resolved. For all restrictions and closures, look at the FWP website.