This page is to list project ideas and initiatives that we need assistance with. Some of these items are already in the works and some are just ideas. I'm hoping this page will serve as a resource for me to keep track of the various things that rise in importance and then fall into the background. If you would like to get involved, or if you have an idea for a project please let me know.

Rail Yard

The current issues with the rail yard are to find a way to test the black dust that adjacent neighbors find on their homes. The other project would be to figure out how to do a study to determine options for moving the rail yard out of downtown. At a minimum it would be worthwhile to explore what it could look like and what the constraints are.

Trees

THE TREES ARE ALL DYING!!! Our urban forest of Norway Maples was all planted about the same time. We expect it all to be dead in the next twenty years. If folks like the tree lined streets we need to get much more aggressive about maintaining and replacing trees.

Best Value Contracting

An effort has been brewing for years to revise the purchasing policies of the city to allow us to put emphasys on local contractors and contractors with improved labor practices.

Sewer billing based on consumption

This is another one that has been in the works for years. What is the status?

Gas Tax

Montana Counties have the authority place on the ballot an initiative to create a 2 cent per gallon gas tax. We should do this to generate revenue for sidewalks and streets in the city and trails in the county. If the commissioners refuse to put in on the ballot we need to gather something like 10,000 signatures to do it without them.

Council Planning

For years I have wanted the council to take time to do some sort of goal building process. I think this is the year it will finally happen. We probably need a facilitator to assist in the process.

 

Street Lights

We have been talking forever about taking ownership of our lighting instead of paying lease fees.  There is a pretty clear path on how to get there but someoen needs to push it along.