Guest opinion: Do property rights apply to everyone?

Flathead County commissioners have repeatedly said private-property rights matter.
Commissioner Pam Holmquist said, “I want to continue to protect individual property rights.” Commissioner Brad Abell said, “I am a firm supporter of private property rights.” Commissioner Randy Brodehl stated, “Individual private property rights are of paramount importance to Flathead County residents… We can do both.”
Those statements raise an important question about the county’s approval of Steamboat Landing in Somers.
Steamboat Landing is a 252-unit development—180 homes and 72 condominiums. Its proposed access involves an easement crossing property owned by the Joe A. DeLong Revocable Trust.
The Trust repeatedly objected. According to its complaint, the easement was historically used for farm equipment, while the development was expected to generate 1,375 vehicle trips per day. The Trust also alleged paving and sidewalks could affect its adjoining property and duplex.
On February 3, 2025—just eight days before commissioners approved Steamboat Landing—the Trust filed a lawsuit seeking a judicial determination of its easement rights.
When the county approved a 252-unit development involving an easement already in active litigation, how did it consider and protect the landowner’s property rights?
The case is scheduled for trial Monday, Sept. 21, 2026 before Judge Paul Sullivan in Flathead County District Court. 

— Brooke Nash, Somers