News
Stay current with top stories from Northwest Montana, including local government updates, education news, community issues, public safety, environmental reports, and regional developments.
Construction of new Flathead County jail celebrated with groundbreaking ceremony
Nearly 20 people involved with the project posed for the photo-op, including the three county commissioners, Sheri…
Next vaccine distribution phase launches Tuesday in Flathead County
The Flathead City-County Health Department announced Thursday that staff will begin vaccinating individuals that fall within Phase 1B of the governor’s COVID-19 vaccination plan on Tuesday, Jan. 19.
Outages linger for third day for 2,000 homes
Another 5,000 Flathead Electric Co-op members had power restored Friday morning as crews continue cleanup efforts following an extreme windstorm Wednesday.
Federal judge orders IHS to release report on abusive doctor
RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — A federal judge has ordered Indian Health Services to release a report investigating how one of its doctors was able to sexually abuse boys on Indian reservations in South Dakota and Montana.
Kalispell house fire under investigation
No serious injuries were reported in a structure fire Thursday night that significantly damaged a home in Kalispell.
Who enforces whom? Proposed bill gives state ethics oversight for local boards
A bill heard by lawmakers Wednesday would formally put local boards and commissions under the jurisdiction of the state’s top political watchdog.
Kalispell council to vote next week on expanding accessory dwellings
After thoroughly examining a text amendment that would expand the use of accessory dwelling units throughout the city, the Kalispell City Council is poised to vote on the proposal Jan. 19.
Boyfriend instantly regrets calling authorities
A man called 911 after a verbal disagreement with his girlfriend, but then he seemed to regret calling. He told the Columbia Falls Police Department he “wasn’t sure why he tried to call in the first place,” and he …
Bison Range regs won't change under Tribal ownership
Regulations for visitors to the National Bison Range near Moiese will not change after ownership of its lands were transferred to the Confederated Salish and K…
Subdivision near Whitefish fuels debate over public access
The Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday recommended approval of plans for an 80-acre subdivision south of Whitefish over objections from neighbors who say access to the proposed development shouldn't rely o…
Montana lawmakers haggle over mask rules in staff offices
HELENA (AP) — Republican leaders in Montana's Legislature rejected an effort Thursday to make stronger an agreement that lawmakers will wear masks while meeting with legislative staffers in their offices to discuss…
Lincoln Co. deputy on leave following shooting
A Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office deputy has been placed on paid leave after being involved in a shooting Thursday morning.
Montana House passes bill to permit campus concealed carry
HELENA (AP) — A bill that would expand the list of places in Montana where people can carry concealed firearms with and without permits passed Thursday in the Republican-controlled House, less than two weeks after …
Montana sending 150 National Guard soldiers to inauguration
HELENA (AP) — Montana is sending 150 Army National Guard soldiers to the nation's capital to help provide security for the inauguration of President-Elect Joe …
ATV chase lands Flathead ex-con in jail
A Flathead Valley resident with a string of convictions for violent offenses is facing more charges after an incident involving a stolen all-terrain vehicle an…
GOP lawmakers reject effort to require masks around staff
HELENA (AP) — Republican leaders in Montana's Legislature refused Thursday to require lawmakers to wear masks while meeting with legislative staffers in their offices to discuss bill drafts, amendments or other iss…