The Polson City Commission added ducks to the domestic chicken ordinance, swore in a new fire chief, and filled a vacancy on the Polson Golf Course Board during the Nov. 17  meeting.  

The commission amended the domestic chicken ordinance, which allows chickens within city limits to include ducks. The original chicken ordinance was passed May 17, 2021. In June 2025, 10-year-old Johnny Lapotka asked the commission to expand the ordinance to include ducks. 

“Ducks are similar in size and behavior to chickens, which are allowed. Duck eggs are healthier than chicken eggs, they make less noise and are more docile than chickens. Ducks are small and manageable pets,” he told the commission in June.   

This amendment included lengthening the time of permit from the maximum of one calendar year to three calendar years to address the fee-to-cost aspect of the application. It also included discretionary inspections to reduce costs associated with the application review. The first reading of the ordinance was passed unanimously.  

Some public comments were made in regard to the changes to this ordinance. Tracy McDonald asked if the code included certain fence requirements because ducks can fly. She also asked if there is an increased number of insects and if the city will be checking for safety and cleanliness.  

City Manager Ed Meece explained that these things will likely be a part of the inspection process.  

During the commission meeting, assistant fire chief Kevin Straub was sworn in as the new Polson City Fire Chief. Straub said he has big shoes to fill and appreciates the mentorship that previous Fire Chief Clint Cottle has provided him.  

“I really do love this community, and I hope to take this department from a great spot that it's sitting in and just keep pushing forward to a wonderful, great future,” Straub said. “I know this group of firefighters beside me are absolutely the best, and I don't expect anything different from them.” 

The commission also reappointed Larry Ashcraft to the Polson Golf Course Board. Ashcraft, who has lived in Polson for 12 years, stated on his application that he has passion for the golf course and feels he can continue to be a positive resource to the board.  

Ashcraft was also reappointed to the Polson Board of Adjustment, and James Reisteter was newly appointed. This board is a part of city planning and has the power to hear variance requests and appeals. Reisteter stated on his application that he was encouraged by Ashcraft to apply and is interested in local government.  

The commission further scheduled a public workshop regarding the location of a second fire station, which includes a possible land swap with Cougar Ridge Development. This workshop will be on Dec. 15 at 6 p.m.