Growth must follow county regulations

Our commissioners recently voted to support reductions in roadway Levels of Service (LOS), raising serious concerns about long-term impacts on taxpayers, infrastructure, and public services. Per Montana law, developers must submit Traffic Impact Studies and Environmental Assessments. Commissioners have the authority to deny or return plat proposals that negatively affect roads, schools, water systems, or conflict with county regulations and Montana Subdivision Platting Act. County Planning Director Mack acknowledged that reduced LOS was expected at key intersections involving Highways 93 and 82, and Somers Road. County Road Bridge Director Prunty further stated that traffic from the subdivision would “immediately impact” the intersection. Residents remain concerned about Somers Rd itself and future county road cost and upgrades, not state roads. Given existing Somers Rd limitations and EPA-related environmental constraints, improvements may be difficult. Schools are also affected. Somers-Lakeside Superintendent Price warned that projected growth could require a bond to expand facilities. Combined with concerns involving wildlife impacts, environmental setbacks/infrastructure strain, these proposals warranted greater scrutiny. Instead, they received unanimous approval. Commissioners/Planners are entrusted with protecting public health, safety, infrastructure, and general welfare. That duty requires more than approving growth — it requires following county regulations, Montana law. 

Jim Mathieu, Somers