‘This will be your final chance’: County residents can learn about study process and offer feedback on November ballot recommendations
By Jen Clancey STAFF WRITER
Over the course of 18 months, the Gallatin County Local Government Study Commission assessed the county’s government and procedures against other options offered by Montana law. In five listening sessions hosted between April 22 and 30, the commission will present its final recommendations for the November 2026 ballot.
The commission of seven, as well as the study, was approved by voters in November 2024. Since, the group has held public meetings and conducted government assessments to form recommendations for improved governance options. Recommendations are presented as a ballot measure for the November election this year. According to an April 20 press release from GCSC, the commission recommends no change to the current form of government, but supports presenting the option to transition county elections from partisan to nonpartisan.
At the listening sessions, the commission will also provide clarity on findings, how public input informed the process and confirm how the study addressed public interests.
“These listening sessions are an opportunity to reflect what we heard from the community, share what’s being proposed, and ensure it aligns with what residents want for the future of Gallatin County Government,” the release stated.
In an April 15 Big Sky Resort Area District board meeting, study commissioner and Resort Tax Director of Economic and Strategic Development Jackie Haines shared more about the proposed recommendation, which required a lot of discussion.
“It was quite a debate and a very split decision,” Haines said, regarding the final decision on recommendations. Two other potential recommendations—to expand the Gallatin County Commission from three to five seats and to change the power of county government—were outvoted 4-3 by fellow commissioners. Haines said she also fought hard to convince study commissioners that a five-seat county commission would improve representation throughout the county. She encouraged residents to come out to the Big Sky listening session on April 30 at The Wilson Hotel at 6 p.m.
“This will be your final chance to give feedback to the study commissioners and final chance to affect any kind of change to our proposal,” Haines said.
The final report is available online and has an accompanying minority report to complement final recommendations. The minority report supports the use of a charter government and expanding the county commission seats to five to boost representation.
On Wednesday, April 22 at 6 p.m., the commission will host its first session at the Three Forks High School Auditorium followed by West Yellowstone Town Hall on Thursday, April 23 at 5 p.m., Gallatin Gateway Community Center at 6 p.m. on Monday, April 27, and Gallatin County Courthouse Community Room at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 29 with virtual options available. Big Sky’s session will be the last.
Residents all over the county are encouraged to attend, including those who live in cities with established municipal governments.
“Everyone’s voice plays a vital role in shaping how county government works for our growing and diverse region,” the release stated.
