Zoning, taxes and the fight for Montana’s future

In the last census, Kalispell was named the fastest growing micro-metropolitan area in the country. And with that growth comes a real challenge: How do we make room for more families, more workers  and more opportunity without losing the very character that makes our communities feel like home?  

This session, the Legislature is working through that question — trying to strike a balance between making housing more accessible and protecting the values that make Montana the Last Best Place. From zoning reform to infrastructure upgrades and property tax relief, here’s a look at some of the major proposals shaping the conversation this week.  

Senate Bill 266, sponsored by Sen. Jeremy Trebas would allow triplexes and four plexes in areas zoned for single-family homes in cities over 5,000 residents. It bars stricter rules on these units than those applied to single-family or duplex homes but allows limits where infrastructure can’t support added density. In Kalispell, opponents worry SB 266 threatens neighborhood character, reduces local input and strain infrastructure; others welcome more options for seniors, families and workers seeking housing in walkable neighborhoods.