Kalispell to try to annex small lots

The Daily Inter Lake

The Kalispell City Council told its staff Monday to notify owners of nine small lots that they face potential annexation by the city that surrounds them.

The appropriate rural fire departments will also be notified.

At a later date, the council will vote on whether to annex those sites. Monday's meeting was a workshop session.

Six lots are less than six acres. One is 4.02 acres, one is 3.13 acres and the final one is 1.58 acres.

All are tiny pockets of unincorporated land surrounded by incorporated Kalispell.

The proposed annexations are supposed to clear up confusion over which fire departments and other departments are responsible for them.

If the city annexes those lots, they will not be charged impact fees because the city -not the owners -is seeking the annexations.

Also Monday, the council:

n Heard Boyd Roth make a pitch to have the city buy the old Dollar Store and convert it into a community center for the poor, mentally ill, developmentally disabled, seniors and transients.

He said the site is a good location for people who cannot afford to drive, and that it could easily be served by Eagle Transit buses.

Roth said such a center exists in Billings.

n Sent to the Planning Board a proposal to allow temporary off-premises signs for businesses and for sandwich-style signs on downtown sidewalks.

Issues for the Planning Board to consider include what limitations should be sought, setting up a trial period for the concept, and putting in minimum standards for the signs.