The Kalispell Planning Commission on Tuesday accepted resident input on the city’s proposed public participation plan, which was crafted in response to new requirements established under the Montana Land Use Planning Act.
The act, created by Senate Bill 382, directs cities to streamline planning and zoning processes while focusing public participation during the creation of land-use plans rather than specific projects.
The 2023 Legislature delivered a package of bills that reform Montana’s land-use codes with an eye toward fixing the state’s housing crisis. The legislation was a top priority for Gov. Greg Gianforte and his mandate to cut so-called red tape that stymies new development.
The Kalispell Planning Commission on Tuesday took a first look at a proposed public participation process for future development decisions as required by the Montana Land Use Planning Act.