Agreement with police association on the table

 At tonight’s meeting, the Kalispell City Council will consider a collective bargaining agreement that has been negotiated since January between the city and the Kalispell Police Association.

The agreement, which was recently approved by the association’s membership, applies to the next three fiscal years.

Base salary increases of 1.1 percent, 1.7 percent and 2 percent are proposed along with total compensation increases for longevity of 2.4 percent, 3 percent and 3.3 percent for the three-year period.

There also is an increase for hours associated with court call backs and some adjustments in contract language.

The estimated fiscal impacts of the agreement are $72,000 for 2015, $92,000 for 2016 and $104,000 for 2017.

The council also will vote on a resolution outlining legislative priorities for the city that were discussed at a workshop last week.

It is proposed that the city support:

— the ability of citizens to vote on a local option sales tax, something that is not allowed under current state law.

— legislation enhancing tax increment financing and the creation of special districts.

— legislation that would limit or remove of regulations on municipal operations such as water production and wastewater treatment.

The council also will consider a request from Flathead Industries for a permit that would allow the sale and consumption of alcohol at a street festival that is planned for June 27 to celebrate the organization’s 40th anniversary.

The festival is planned on First Avenue East between East Idaho and East Montana streets.

The council meets at 7 p.m. in City Hall on First Avenue East.