Columbia Falls city voters narrowly shot down the idea of self governing powers for the city, 1,003-965.

Self-governing powers would have allowed the city council to pass laws as long as they were not contrary to state and federal laws.

A government study commission, made up of Roger Hopkins, Connie Konopatzke and Susan Nicosia looked at the issue for about 16 months.

The commission was approved by voters in 2024 and is authorized by the state constitution, which allows cities to examine their method of governing every 10 years.

The commission did not recommend any changes to the form of city government, but it did approve, in a 2-1 vote, placing the question of self-governing powers on the ballot.

Nicosia voted against placing the question on the ballot. She was not opposed to self-governing powers, but didn’t think the city needed them at this time.

Hopkins and Konopatzke, however, noted things are rapidly changing in the world and it might be good to have the matter settled now.

But Nicosia noted the city council itself could approve self-governing powers if need be.

The state has passed more than 30 laws over the year limiting city’s ability to use self-governing powers. Perhaps most notably is the Montana Land Use Planning Act, which  limits cities’ abilities to regulate housing projects.