Saving the oasis - one island at a time
'Creating the neighborhood plan was a positive thing for most of us. Rather than have our area melded into some huge countywide thing, it gave us a voice.' n Fred Hodgeboom
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Gravel pit near Glacier gets OK
Fine print forcescounty to approve legal settlement
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Rate increase proposed for county landfill
The Flathead County Solid Waste Board will consider a proposal later this month to raise landfill fees by 8 percent.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Smooth sailing?
Fewer delays from highway construction possible this summer
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Lack of bipartisanship dooms planning bills
Several bills that would have affected land-use practices in Flathead County died in committee at the Montana Legislature last week.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Water bills stay afloat in Helena
Proposals would allow state to lease water from Hungry Horse Reservoir
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Flathead County settles lawsuit
Lake protection, eagle developmentgroups also sign on
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
County hopes plan settles air-quality issue
Hoping to resolve a $29,000 air-quality violation, Flathead County mailed a draft "road dust action plan" to the Montana Department of Environmental Quality last week.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Draft 'wrong in so many ways'
Proposed subdivision regulations get public spanking at four-hour hearing
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Gravel-pit measure bites dust
A bill that would have made it harder to prohibit new gravel pits probably died last week in a Montana Legislature committee.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
The world of tomorrow
Whitefish designer found inspiration at 1939 world's fair
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Marketing plan aims at self-sufficiency
A new marketing plan calls for the Flathead County Fairgrounds to be self-sufficient within five years.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Biologists pan subdivision rules
Farmers also oppose proposals
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Surface-water rights may be harder to obtain
Shortly after adopting a new growth policy Monday, the Flathead County commissioners learned that growth might be a little harder because of a recent water-rights ruling.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Final passage for growth plan
Commissioners unanimously OK policy update
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Water use now an issue for lawyers
'We have a complex system that makes sharing possible'
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Ruling creates high hurdle for water users
Decision by state makes proving legal availability more difficult
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Mission: Madagascar
Polson teen shares photos of enchanted isle
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Not a drop to drink?
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Several land-use, gravel bills still alive
With seven weeks left in the session, a number of major land-use bills are still alive in the 2007 Legislature.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Board questions readiness of draft
There weren't many people at the Flathead County Planning Board workshop Wednesday about the draft subdivision regulations, but plenty of suggestions were made about how to improve the document.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Airport crews train for the worst
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Growth comments due by 5 p.m. Friday
The deadline for public comment on Flathead County's revised growth policy is fast approaching, but only a handful of letters have been received.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Big Mountain investor buys eateries
MacKenzie River Pizza, Mambo Italiano among restaurants acquired by Bill Foley's new company
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Changes planned in gravel-pit laws
Bills would affect how county regulates new pits
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 17 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Bank assets go up by a billion
Community focus helps Glacier Bancorp keep growing
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS AGO
Growth petitions fall short
A Kalispell grass-roots group failed to secure enough petition signatures to force a vote on a recent city growth policy amendment.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS AGO
Lawsuit challenges subdivision near Kila
For at least the fourth time this year, Flathead County has been sued in a dispute about a subdivision.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Hearing delayed on mall
It's going to be a while longer before there's finally a resolution of the Wolford/Glacier Mall lawsuit.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Lack of funding buries gravel study
A planned analysis of the cumulative impacts of Flathead County's numerous gravel pits has been quietly shelved less than a year after it was first proposed by state officials.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Land bank money may expand state park
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Deadline requested on growth-policy review
Flathead County commissioners want Planning Board to finish by Oct. 15
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
'The refineries are driving the ship'
Petroleum industry changes drive consolidation in distribution field
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
No new funds for growth work
Flathead County's preliminary budget doesn't set any new money aside for implementation of the growth policy, but officials say that doesn't indicate a lack of support for the planning document.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
Land-use limbo snares Kila subdivision
A major subdivision proposal in the Kila area was remanded by county commissioners to the Flathead County Planning Board for further consideration Thursday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Growth policy faces public scrutiny this week
Hearings ahead Tuesday, Thursday on draft plan
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
County to weigh in on U.S. 93 bypass option
Commissioners scheduled to discuss the matter today
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Somers subdivisions rejected
Two subdivision proposals that together would have created almost 500 residential lots in the Somers area were shot down this week in the space of about 12 hours.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Board hears plan to double size of Somers
Developer offers to pay schools, fire department for impacts from project
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Weighing in on U.S. 93 bypass
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Did court give mall green light?
Five years after the project was first proposed, a recent Montana Supreme Court ruling may have cleared the way for Glacier Mall to proceed.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
It's Lauman vs. Crowley in November
With all but a handful of ballots counted, Flathead County commissioner candidates Mark Crowley and Dale Lauman have been chosen to represent their parties in the November general election.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Crowley wins, Lauman leads for commissioner
It looks as if Dale Lauman and Mark Crowley will square off in November to decide who will replace Bob Watne as Flathead County commissioner.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Spending adds up for local election races
Political contributions to local election campaigns have exceeded $180,000 so far this year, with expenditures approaching $120,000.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Approval would fund safety needs
Flathead County is asking voters to approve a three-mill levy Tuesday for the Juvenile Detention Center, but what it really wants is more money for public safety and the court system.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Riverdale plan bounced back to board
Like a battered ball in a pinball machine, the 3,800-acre Riverdale Neighborhood Plan continues to ricochet its way through Flathead County's planning process.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Memorial Day snow?
Weather expected to be cooler, wetter in coming week
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Planners vote down gravel-pit clarification
Definition of 'extraction' is central issue in West Valley dispute
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
County candidates queried on priorities
Eleven of 12 commissioner hopefuls attend forum Tuesday in Kalispell
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Planners OK subdivision
Project proposed on 646 acres near the foot of Ashley Lake
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
U.S. 93 bypass construction
Residents can help set criteria
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Planning Board fails to approve Riverdale plan
Proposal goes to county commissioners without a recommendation
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Judge rules for county in land-use argument
Flathead County recently won summary judgment in another land-use planning lawsuit.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Slowing down on sewer
Lakeside declares moratorium on some new subdivisions
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Zoning request turned down
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Third big project proposed near Somers
New plan brings total to 1,300 proposed housing lots
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Commissioners struggle with labor costs
The Flathead County commissioners will face some difficult decisions during the upcoming budget cycle, particularly with labor costs.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
The trouble with litter
Trashing the valley Roadside garbage becoming major problem in Flathead
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Performing arts center nets $4 million pledge
Only six weeks left for other donors to step up
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Gravel pits: County moves to revise limits
Seven months ago, the Flathead County commissioners approved a zoning text amendment that dramatically increased the number of zoning districts where gravel pits can be prohibited.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Much patience will be required
Slow road to Missoula Five major construction jobs scheduled along U.S. 93 corridor
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Board suspends horse racing this year
Combination of spiraling insurance costs and borderline profitability contributed to downfall
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Decision enters home stretch
Fair Board meets tonight to discuss future of horse racing at Northwest Montana Fair
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
County puts mill-levy requests to June vote
Financing effort targets Juvenile Detention Center, mosquito control
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Roadkill revival
State using composting to dispose of dead deer
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Insurance costs may hobble horse racing
County unwilling to pay the $20,000 needed for jockey premiums
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Planning Board postpones Riverdale decision
Panel delays action for at least two months, will hold second public hearing
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
County, city face off in good-natured blood feud
Flathead County and Kalispell have had a few spats over the years, but this time they're both out for blood.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Fund drive for arts center begins
Ambitious effort aims to raise $26 million
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Lawsuit targets W. Glacier gravel decision
The Flathead County commissioners were sued Wednesday over a decision that blocked the operation of a West Glacier gravel pit.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Justice jobs not only for lawyers
Flathead County rescinds requirement that judges must be licensed attorneys
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
County prevails in gravel lawsuits
Ruling upholds board decision on West Valley pit
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Just add water
Group proposes controlling Echo, Abbot, Peterson lake levels
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
A valentine gift for Kalispell
Hotel company announces donation of land for Glacier Performing Arts Center
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Nitrate plume confounds experts
State officials plan to do more water-quality testing in the West Valley this summer, in hopes of identifying the sources of what they say is the largest nitrate plume in Montana.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Northwest Montana real estate sales jump 25 percent in 2005
A billion-dollar market
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Requiem for a dream
Frustrated by a lack of funding support, five members of the Flathead County Museum Board have resigned since Jan. 1
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Gravel pit expansion denied
The Flathead County commissioners unanimously and emphatically denied the proposed expansion of a West Glacier gravel pit Tuesday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 18 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Got subdivisions? Kalispell appraiser says Flathead has lots of lots - more than any other Montana county
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS AGO
Searching for answers
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS AGO
Planners deny 2 major subdivisions
Flathead County votes down Meadowbrook Place, Stage Road River Estates Phase III
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS AGO
Change in a small town
Almost 1,000 new housing units on drawing board for Somers
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS AGO
Gravel pits have a rocky year in 2005
Disputes over gravel pits came full circle in Flathead County in 2005, with one lawsuit being filed at the beginning of the year and another being pulled at the end of the year.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS AGO
People chime in with views about growth
Flathead County residents seem to have some common things they like, but what they
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS AGO
Board OKs expansion of gravel pit
Planners limit size of West Glacier operation
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS AGO
Dispute makes for eventful events center
County still doesn't own fairgrounds building
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Bird counts offer a winter treat
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
No gravel-pit resolution yet
Planning Board will continue next week discussion of West Glacier project
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Park, county consider bus plan
A possible partnership between Flathead County and Glacier National Park could result in expanded bus service for Eagle Transit.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Attendance falls short on planning board
Attendance records for the Flathead County Planning Board indicate that seven of the nine members fail to meet the board's own rules.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Sewer foes urge county to deny change
More than two dozen letters of opposition have come in on a proposed zoning text amendment related to sewage-treatment plants.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
How many of us are there?
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
County considers new funding sources
Faced with a mounting list of infrastructure and capital replacement needs, Flathead County officials have identified several "revenue enhancement" opportunities to help pay for these projects.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Board votes against Creston subdivision
A major subdivision on the valley's east side earned a negative recommendation from the Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Court upholds convictions in double murder
The Montana Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld Troy McGarvey's double homicide conviction.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Senior housing to get new owners
A California firm is selling all of its low-income and senior housing projects in Montana, including four apartment complexes in Flathead County and one in Libby.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Nonprofits as an economic force
Study outlines impact on Montana economy
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
CFAC future may hinge on BPA plan
The future of Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. could be determined in the next few months, when the Bonneville Power Administration lays out its plan for future wholesale power rates.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
'Citizen scientists'
Volunteers log thousands of hours studying loons in Glacier
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Research opportunities range from birds to bears
Glacier National Park isn't the only place in Northwest Montana where volunteers are helping out with scientific research projects.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Lone Pine restoration scheduled
Tree project aimed at stopping disease, bugs
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Four subdivision proposals involve a total of 312 lots
As if any more evidence were needed to demonstrate the valley's frantic growth rate, consider tonight's Flathead County Planning Board agenda.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Hearing addresses landfill expansion plan
Extra 90 acres might last 15 to 38 years
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Meridian Road work winds down on Meridian
Traffic on Meridian Road in Kalispell should be back to normal sometime in the next few weeks as construction work finishes up for the winter.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
How should the valley grow?
County hopes for broad participation in series of growth-policy meetings
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
County planners buried by surge of subdivisions
In apparent imitation of recent weather patterns, the Flathead County Planning Office has been hit with a deluge all its own.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Horse racing decision delayed
The Flathead County commissioners postponed a decision Tuesday on the fate of horse racing at the Northwest Montana Fair.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Expansion work begins on mall hotel
Kalispell Center Mall has been a prominent part of the city's downtown landscape
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
County librarian finds adventurous career, even without fish
Walk through the doors of the Flathead County Library, and you enter a realm of discovery and adventure.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Library director reads between the lines
Walk through the doors of the Flathead County Library, and you enter a realm of discovery and adventure.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Paper chase: Planning lawsuits
A chronology of recent planning lawsuits filed against Flathead County, including the lead plaintiff, relief requested, some specific claims and status:
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Sacred ground
Why lawsuits have beome weapon of choice in the Flathead's growth debate
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Impacts of gravel pits to be examined
State officials think it's time to take a comprehensive look at the environmental impacts of gravel pits in Flathead County.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
County doubles Evergreen donation
A year after agreeing to give the Evergreen sewer district 10 acres for a new
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
County closing gate on racing?
The Flathead County commissioners could decide next week to eliminate horse racing at the Northwest Montana Fair.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Decisions lie ahead on bypass
A wide-ranging talk about transportation issues drew more than 200 people to a Kalispell Chamber of Commerce luncheon on Wednesday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Survey finds high interest in Bigfork planning
Nearly 200 questions, thousands of answers, and one clear message: Bigfork residents want a lot of say in how their community grows.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Dust rules kick up a storm
Road proposals likely to change
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Being discovered has its drawbacks and some positives
It was 10 years ago this fall when Whitefish Mayor Andy Feury first noticed how much things were changing.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
County hit with fifth gravel-pit lawsuit
For the fifth time this year, Flathead County has been sued in a dispute related to gravel pits.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
County to review subdivision rules
Flathead County could have a new set of subdivision regulations in place by early next year.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Set in stone
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Bus drivers get pay raise they didn't want
The Flathead County commissioners implemented a pay raise for the Eagle Transit bus drivers Thursday, even though union members had rejected the offer as insufficient.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Health board ready to tackle road-dust issue
Flathead County officials field hundreds of complaints about road dust every year, but have done little to address the issue.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
Supreme Court upholds county official's dismissal
The Montana Supreme Court on Wednesday said Flathead County did nothing wrong when it declined to renew former administrator Don Avery's contract.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
Mall proposal reigns Supreme
The Montana Supreme Court unanimously ruled in favor of Flathead County on Tuesday, in a long-running lawsuit related to the Glacier Mall proposal.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
Flathead County proposes budget totaling $57 million
The Flathead County commissioners will hold a public hearing Wednesday to take comments on a proposed $57.6-million annual budget.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
Planning officials reach out for public involvement
Flathead County planning officials are developing several options for keeping people informed and involved in the ongoing growth policy update process.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
Exploring the complexities of Glacier
The extraordinarily diverse research opportunities available in the Northern Rockies were on display recently during the second annual Waterton-Glacier science and history conference.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
Board rejects Bigfork planning change
A major growth-policy amendment in the Bigfork area failed to earn a positive recommendation from the Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday, despite nearly unanimous support from the audience.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
Market values in Flathead County top $5.5 billion
The market value of real estate and personal property in Flathead County increased by more than $400 million in 2005, topping $5.5 billion for the first time.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
City Council debates downtown tax district plan
Do Kalispell officials want to encourage redevelopment in the area around Kalispell Center Mall, and if so, what's the best way to do that?
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
Three bike paths to get $600,000 in funding
The Flathead County commissioners allocated more than $600,000 to three competing bike path proposals on Monday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 4 MONTHS AGO
Kalispell considers new tax-increment district
The Kalispell City Council will hold a workshop tonight to discuss the formation of a new tax increment financing district in the area north and west of downtown.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Bike-path proposals vie for funding
The Flathead County commissioners will hold a public hearing Monday morning to discuss funding and construction priorities for three new bike-path proposals.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
County OKs zoning amendment for gravel pits
The Flathead County commissioners took their best shots at resolving an ongoing dispute about gravel pits Wednesday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Gravel amendment stirs up more dust
The Flathead County commissioners are set to take final action this morning on a controversial zoning text amendment related to gravel pits.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Kalispell looks at $52 million budget
The Kalispell City Council will take action tonight on a $52-million annual budget request, including $9.5 million in general-fund expenditures.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Mixed feelings emerge about bypass plan
Local residents both praised and scolded the Montana Department of Transportation on Tuesday for its work on the U.S. 93 bypass west of Kalispell.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Runaway commissioner?
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Board considers interim planning standards
With a few major changes, a set of interim criteria for new growth-policy amendments could get a favorable recommendation from the Flathead County Planning Board next week.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Board approves gravel pit, concrete plant along river
The Flathead County Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a conditional use permit for a 33-acre gravel pit and concrete batch plant on Tuesday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Mall foes file suit to block growth plan
Following up on its 18-month effort to stop the Glacier Mall proposal, a group of central valley residents has now sued to block the Two Rivers growth policy amendment.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
State seeks source of W. Valley nitrate
About three dozen wells in the West Valley area were sampled last week in an
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Talking trash
County landfill continues to set records
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Lawsuit could cost Flathead Electric millions
Flathead Electric Cooperative is facing the possibility of a multimillion-dollar damage award, following an unfavorable ruling in a two-year-old lawsuit.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
'There's still an opportunity': Glacier Mall developer sticks with project
The recent surge in retail construction near Kalispell hasn't come as a surprise
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Guidelines proposed for new growth amendments
The Flathead County Planning Office is proposing that all new growth policy amendments submitted in the next 15 months be required to satisfy a series of conditions before they'll be processed.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 5 MONTHS AGO
Avoiding 'malfunction junction'
Transportation committee approves latest bypass design
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Two gravel pit owners file lawsuits
Flathead County has been sued twice in the last week over disputes related to gravel pits.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
County looks at 'status quo' budget for fiscal 2006
Flathead County's financial situation isn't likely to improve in the next fiscal year, but it shouldn't deteriorate much either, according to the new county administrator.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Researchers study avian population dynamics
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Governor wants meeting on coal dispute
After more than 20 years of cross-border wrangling about coal development in the Canadian Flathead, Gov. Brian Schweitzer thinks it's time to sit down and talk.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Opponents gather to speak against commissioners plan
Judging by comments made Tuesday, there s almost no support in Flathead County for a lengthy moratorium on new growth-policy amendments.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Landowners submit 2,800-acre land sue change
The Two Rivers growth policy amendment is no longer the largest landowner-driven land-use change ever proposed in Flathead County.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
For CFAC, power cost still the critical question
Despite an offer of 140 megawatts of federal power, Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. officials say it's too early to tell when or if the plant will increase production.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
CFAC to get more power
The Bonneville Power Administration announced Monday that it would supply up to 140 megawatts of electricity to Columbia Falls Aluminum Co., beginning late next year.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Two Rivers approved
The Flathead County commissioners unanimously approved a huge growth policy amendment on Tuesday, but it could be one of the last ones they address for several months.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Local display moves ahead
A split decision Monday by the U.S. Supreme Court on the Ten Commandments won't derail efforts to build an "Evolution of Law" display at the Flathead County Courthouse.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Two Rivers amendment up for final vote
The Flathead County commissioners are scheduled to take final action Tuesday on the Two Rivers growth policy amendment.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Commissioners give Plum Creek tax break
The Flathead County commissioners approved a tax break for Plum Creek Timber Co. on Thursday by a 2-1 vote.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 6 MONTHS AGO
Who wants gravel?
The Flathead County commissioners will hold a public hearing this morning on a proposed zoning text amendment that would dramatically expand the areas where new gravel pits could be prohibited.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Landfill 'extending the bathtub'
A massive excavation project will take place this summer at the Flathead County landfill.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
West Valley gravel pit OK'd, asphalt plant denied
The Flathead County Board of Adjustment issued a split decision Tuesday, approving a conditional-use permit for a controversial gravel pit in the West Valley but denying a related asphalt plant.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
. Kalispell, county agree on fate of close to a million dollars
A long-standing dispute over almost a million dollars in tax increment revenue was amicably resolved on Tuesday, when Kalispell Mayor Pam Kennedy presented the Flathead County commissioners with a check for $197,979 - and a promise of more to come.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
County commissioners OK timeline for drafting growth policy
A draft growth policy will be available for public review by April 30 next year, under a schedule approved by the Flathead County commissioners on Wednesday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
County revives Helena Flats plan amendment
In a surprise move on Wednesday, the Flathead County commissioners approved a growth policy amendment they had unanimously denied just two weeks ago.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Low-cost fix tokeep Old Steel Bridge open?
Local and state officials may have identified a low-cost repair plan that could keep the Old Steel Bridge open for another few years.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Board OKs three gravel pits, but sides dig in over a fourth
The Flathead County Board of Adjustment unanimously approved three gravel pit applications on Tuesday, but a battle is looming over a fourth proposal.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Army Corps to coordinate flood work
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Making up for lost time
With another half-inch or so of rain on Tuesday, the Flathead Valley's moisture deficit is rapidly disappearing.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Rising water, rising worries
Flood-damaged sections of Montana 35 reopened to travel on Monday, but the recent
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Dinosaur extinction theory prompts ideas about Yellowstone
In 1980, when Luis and Walter Alvarez first proposed that an asteroid impact killed off all the dinosaurs 65 million years ago, it started a scientific donnybrook that's still unfolding today.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
Research may solve mysteries of hot spot
When 19-year-old Joe Meek first encountered the boiling springs and geysers in what would later become Yellowstone National Park, he immediately thought of the underworld.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
County takes no action on security at courthouse
Security at the Flathead County Justice Center won't be beefed up any time soon, in part due to ongoing budget constraints.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
County takes no action on security at courthouse
Security at the Flathead County Justice Center won't be beefed up any time soon, in part due to ongoing budget constraints.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 7 MONTHS AGO
State seeks proposals for hotel
The state is currently accepting lease proposals for a possible 2-acre hotel complex on Kalispell's northwest side, in the Section 36 school trust parcel.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
State wants to sell land in Kalispell
The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation is taking public comment on a proposal to sell 100 acres of school trust land in Kalispell for residential development.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
County to intervene in salvage logging lawsuit
The Flathead County commissioners agreed to intervene in a timber lawsuit on Thursday, saying they want to "send a message" in support of local sawmills.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Hearing expected on Smith Valley plan
A public hearing could be held as early as this summer on a proposal to create a controlled groundwater area north of Smith Lake.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Growth policy work is picking up steam
Despite limited public input, progress seems to be picking up on the update of Flathead County's 18-year-old growth policy.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Procedure errors affect gravel issues
Flathead County is batting 0-for-2 with gravel pit issues in the last two weeks, due to procedural errors by the board of adjustment, planning board and planning office.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Fear and loathing on the eruption trail
Andy Lockhart was nowhere near the danger zone when Mount St. Helens blew its top 25 years ago, blasting almost a cubic mile of rock across southern Washington.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Few voice opinions on county growth policy
Although hundreds of people over the last few years have complained about land-use planning in the Flathead, only about 40 people showed up Tuesday night to try to do something about it.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Planning director hails from Las Vegas
The Flathead's quality of life has snagged another newcomer - in this case the county's new planning director.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
County aims for 'road map' for growth
Consultants try to divine how to shape county growth policy
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Attorneys paint opposing pictures of Dasen
Following eight days of testimony, the prosecution and defense have painted a clear black-and-white case in the prostitution trial of Kalispell businessman Dick Dasen Sr.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
State offers bridge for adoption
Looking for a unique Mother's Day gift?
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
A rocky finish to hearingof board of adjustment
One of the most contentious and acerbic public hearings in recent memory may have to be repeated because of a procedural error by the president of the Flathead County Board of Adjustment.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Tickets on sale for air show
Planning for this summer's Mountain Madness Air Show is about to kick into high gear, with 27 subcommittees and hundreds of volunteers getting into the act.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
In a grueling, four-hour cross examination
In a grueling, four-hour cross examination on Friday, Kalispell attorney George Best strongly challenged the credibility of a prosecution witness in the money-for-sex trial of a Kalispell businessman.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
'He said he'd do me a favor '
If I did him a favor'
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
New event center nearly completed
Work on the new Flathead County Fairgrounds events center should be completed this week, although it won't be available for rent until the end of August.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Renewed focus on crafting county growth policy begins in May
After a hiatus of several months, the Flathead County Planning Board is set to resume its efforts to update and revise the county growth policy.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 8 MONTHS AGO
Kalispell bypass project still years away
For anyone who's eagerly awaiting construction of the U.S. 93 bypass west of Kalispell, no news isn't necessarily good news.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
What's the bottom line?
Commissioners approving tax breaks, but how much money is at stake?
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Flathead should be construction-free zone this summer
For the first time in several years, local drivers will enjoy largely construction-free roadways this summer, with no major highway jobs planned in Flathead County.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Bike paths making connections
Construction began this week on the latest segment of the Great Northern Historical Rail-Trail bike path west of Kalispell, one of several new bike trails scheduled to be built in the valley this year.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Agency plans new fish hatchery near Bigfork
The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Department is taking bids for the construction of a new fish hatchery north of Bigfork near the Flathead River.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Evergreen sewer decision delayed
The Flathead County commissioners took no action Tuesday on a proposed zoning text amendment that would make it possible for Evergreen to locate a sewage treatment plant next to two schools.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Septic firm faces legal action
The state is seeking a permanent injunction against a local septic pumping firm because of alleged septic disposal and record-keeping violations.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Several changes in store for 2006 elections
The Flathead County Election Department is preparing for several major changes over the next year, including the introduction of an electronic vote-counting device that should provide rapid election results.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Impact fee bill sent to governor for approval
A bill that allows cities and counties to impose impact fees on new development went to Gov. Brian Schweitzer on Thursday for his signature.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Neighbors sue to stop Swan Lake subdivision
Two attorneys and 56 of their neighbors filed a pre-emptive lawsuit against Lake County on Tuesday, seeking to block a proposed subdivision of the historic Kootenai Lodge property before it even makes it to the county commissioners for consideration.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Scientific curiosity enabled Dayton geologist to travel the world
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Growth policy consultants to visit in May
The consultants chosen to help Flathead County complete its growth policy update will visit the valley in May, but it's unclear whether they'll still be involved after that.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Smith Valley controlled groundwater petition stalls
Efforts to create the first controlled groundwater area in Flathead County have stalled, at least temporarily, after state experts said the advocates haven't yet proven their case.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Helena Flats hearing raises familiar issues
The Helena Flats neighborhood plan was tabled until June 1 by the Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Board rescinds moratorium proposal
Easy come, easy go.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Board recommends Two Rivers proposal on 7-2 vote
The Two Rivers growth policy amendment survived a last-minute "coup attempt" and earned a favorable recommendation from the Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Flathead County Library begins remodeling project Tuesday
It isn't exactly "Extreme Makeover," but the Flathead County Library is set to begin a $130,000 remodeling project next week.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Two Rivers amendment comes back before planning board
An ongoing debate about how the valley should grow continues on Wednesday, as the Flathead County Planning Board holds its second public hearing on the Two Rivers growth policy amendment.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Co-op annual meeting draws full crowd
Flathead Electric Cooperative's 44,000 members will have an opportunity to elect four board trustees in the next few weeks.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 9 MONTHS AGO
Layoffs at tech firm?
The head of a 15-year-old Whitefish technology firm has declined to comment on reports that the company recently laid off 50 employees and defaulted on several contracts.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Bigfork voters consider sewer plan
Every corner of Flathead County is experiencing some type of growth pressure these days, but no place in the valley is hotter than Bigfork.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
County loses one lawsuit, gets sued again in second case
Flathead County was on the losing end of a court decision recently, in a land-use lawsuit related to a proposed Lakeside marina.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Whitefish board speedily approves state trust lands plan
Following a brief public hearing, the Whitefish City-County Planning Board recommended approval of a 13,000-acre neighborhood plan.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Hearing addresses development options for Whitefish state lands
Future development options for 13,000 acres of school trust lands located near Whitefish will be the subject of a public hearing tonight.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Cost increase could restrict access to bypass
Soaring cost estimates for the U.S. 93 bypass west of Kalispell have prompted a potential redesign that would eliminate more than half of the access points along the eight-mile route.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Cultivating options: Ag luncheon discusses fate of Flathead's cropland
Imagine the Flathead Valley without its amber waves of grain.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Elysian fields are not forever: Demographics and changes in ag economy drive Two Rivers proposal
When Robin Street's grandparents arrived in the Flathead Valley in 1883, they pretty much had their pick of places to live.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Finances could stall plans for growth policy consultant
Plans to hire a consultant to help update the Flathead County growth policy might have to be revised due to financial constraints.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Somers group begins work on neighborhood plan
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Landowner backs out of Two Rivers growth plan
The largest landowner-driven growth policy amendment in Flathead County's history isn't quite so big today, after Semitool founder Ray Thompson pulled out of the project.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
House highway bill deals another blow to Kalispell bypass
Efforts to build the U.S. 93 bypass west of Kalispell suffered another major blow last week when the House Transportation Committee approved a six-year, $284 billion highway bill that didn't appropriate a dime for the long-awaited project.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Courthouse, jail not only county building needs
Expanding the Flathead County Detention Center and replacing the old courthouse and courthouse annexes with a new office building would satisfy the county's most pressing space needs, but it won't resolve all of the building issues.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
County space race: Meeting needs means tearing down before building up
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Reasonable accommodation: County considers jail expansion
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Growing pains
Flathead County is facing a number of building needs that could affect taxpayers over the next few years.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Community council sought for Evergreen
The Evergreen Business and Property Owners Association is proposing that a community council be formed in Evergreen.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Site provides access to variety of records
Flathead County's GIS Department is putting more information at people's fingertips … a lot more information.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Growth policy consultants interviewed
Flathead County could soon hire a consulting firm to help draft a new growth policy.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
State starts process for Section 36 residential pod
The largest remaining tract of undeveloped residential land inside Kalispell's city limits is up for grabs.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Highway bill rolling despite tight budget
A massive federal highway bill that allocates millions of dollars for Going-to-the-Sun Road and the Kalispell bypass is unlikely to be affected by President Bush's tight budget proposal, a congressional staffer said on Tuesday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 10 MONTHS AGO
Gravel pit bill continues to advance
Deadline for transmittal is Thursday
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Parkland policy leaves developers in the driver's seat
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Bypass cost estimate soars to $93 million
The expected price tag of the Kalispell bypass has more than tripled in the last six months, jumping from $28 million to $93.5 million as a result of design changes, higher traffic projections and more accurate cost estimates.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Judge rules in favor of Wolford mall
Developer Bucky Wolford and his Glacier Mall proposal won the latest in a four-year string of victories on Wednesday, earning a favorable ruling in a planning lawsuit.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Two Rivers group offers easements for roads, bike paths
A recent decision to bump the Two Rivers growth policy amendment back to the Flathead County Planning Board for further review has resulted in several transportation-related improvements.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Legislation would mandate airport zones
A bill that would require Kalispell and other local governments to adopt land-use regulations for large areas around their public airports flew through the Montana Senate on a 49-1 vote on Wednesday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Board hears proposals regarding gravel pits, Bigfork development
The Flathead County Planning Board will hold public hearings on a variety of issues tonight, including a controversial growth policy amendment and zone change in the Bigfork area and a zoning text amendment related to gravel pits.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Bill would encourage development in designated areas
The Montana Senate approved a bill on Monday that would require the state's largest and fastest-growing counties to designate preferred growth areas for future development.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Bill would clarify rules for gravel pits
Whitefish Representative Mike Jopek and the Montana Contractors Association are working together on a bill that would clarify the authority of local governments to impose conditions on new gravel pits.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Industry still drives economy
Despite some claims to the contrary, agriculture, wood products manufacturing and other basic industries remain the driving factors in Montana's economy, a Missoula economist said on Tuesday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Former mayor recalls Kalispell's younger days
It may seem like the Flathead has been changing rapidly over the last few years, but the differences people see today are nothing compared to what Tom Flynn has witnessed during his lifetime.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
No easy pickings
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
No peak in sight for Flathead real estate sales
Up.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Back on solid financial ground, Flathead Electric looks forward to future rate decrease
There was a time there, not too long ago, when employees thought twice before wearing the shirts in public.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Gravel firm regrets action that led to zoning decision
It seems no one is happy with a recent zoning decision that eliminated Flathead County's ability to regulate most new gravel pits.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
County jobless rate stays low
Strong employment in the second half of 2004 helped Flathead County's annual unemployment rate stay at 6 percent or less for the fifth consecutive year.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 11 MONTHS AGO
Valley experiences another remarkable year in development
The pace of development reached epic proportions in Flathead County in 2004, with all-time records being set or approached in a host of fundamental growth categories.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO
Helena Flats subdivision earns unanimous vote
Despite pleas from neighbors to reduce the density, the Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday night unanimously recommended approval of an 82-lot subdivision on Helena Flats Road.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO
Resource policy sent back to committee
Flathead County commissioners postponed the adoption of a proposed Natural Resource Policy on Thursday, preferring to send it back to committee for further refinement.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO
Passenger activity, air traffic climb to new heights at Glacier Park International
Double-digit growth during the spring and fall shoulder seasons helped Glacier Park International Airport set another record for passenger activity in 2004.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 19 YEARS, 12 MONTHS AGO
Surveyors ding commissioners for subdivision decisions
The Flathead County commissioners got an earful last week from several local surveyors who are upset by recent decisions related to major and minor subdivisions.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
Floodplain violation threatens insurance sales
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
Tour outlines proposed uses in Two Rivers area
Five members of the Flathead County Planning Board took advantage of a gorgeous afternoon on Friday to tour the largest landowner-proposed growth policy amendment in the valley's history.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
Lawsuit seeks reversal for four minor subdivisions
A local homeowners group is suing the Flathead County commissioners for approving four Smith Valley minor subdivisions in December after their own county attorney said the projects were illegal.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
Two Rivers amendment review gets under way
The Flathead County Planning Board's efforts to tackle the massive Two Rivers growth policy amendment begin today with an organized tour of the area in question.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
Meeting to discuss reservation water development
The Montana Reserved Water Rights Compact Commission will hold a public meeting in Kalispell this afternoon to discuss the recently proposed draft interim administration agreement with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
'Angel' flies in to plan for air show
Despite heavy snow flurries and the potential for subzero temperatures, one of the U.S. Navy's F/A-18 Blue Angel jets arrived at Glacier Park International Airport on Wednesday,
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
Land donated for sewer plant
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
Cold, or really cold?
Weather models waffle over how bad it will be
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
2004 weather: Predictably unpredictable
Flathead County experienced a number of weather extremes during 2004, including record highs, record lows, massive snowfalls and hurricane-force winds.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
Commissioners consider changes in board responsibilities
The Flathead County commissioners rearranged their board on Monday, naming Gary Hall as chairman for 2005.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
Land plan sent back to planning board
Commissioners give planning board another crack at Two Rivers amendment
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
New commissioner immediately confronts growth issues
Ready or not, incoming County Commissioner Joe Brenneman will have to confront the issue of growth in the Flathead almost immediately on Monday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
A year in the planning mill
Chewed up, ground down, burned out
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
Kalispell bird count takes place on Sunday
The National Audubon Society's Christmas bird count continues in the Flathead on Sunday, with the sixth annual Kalispell count.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
County moving forward with gravel pit decision
The Flathead County Planning Office isn't wasting much time before trying to implement a recent zoning decision related to gravel pits.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
Kansas firm takes over local rail operations
A company that specializes in short-line rail service will take over operations today along 40 miles of railroad in Northwest Montana, including the section between Columbia Falls and Kalispell.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
New call center now employs 200
Less than two months after it opened, TeleTech's new call center in Kalispell has about 200 employees and it continues to take applications for future positions.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
Commissioners support effort to regulate gravel pits
Two Flathead County commissioners say they'll look for ways to retain some say in how gravel pits operate in the valley, despite a formal ruling on Thursday that undermined their authority to regulate the industry.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
County planning director leaving for new position
Flathead County Planning Director Forrest Sanderson submitted his resignation on Monday, effective Jan. 3, saying he wanted to pursue a new opportunity in state lands management.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
County OKs Lakeside marina variance
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS AGO
Ban on regulating gravel pits is upheld
Efforts to resurrect Flathead County's ability to regulate or put conditions on new gravel pits fell one vote short on Thursday, leaving local homeowners and elected officials scrambling for help.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Resource policy recommended for approval
Despite numerous calls for a more thorough public review process, the Flathead County Planning Board recommended approval of a proposed natural resource policy on Wednesday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Mall lawsuit goes to judge for a decision
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Montana's ability to regulate gravel pits is limited
A recent zoning decision that eliminates Flathead County's ability to regulate most new gravel pits leaves residents here at the mercy of an industry-friendly state permitting process, according to a local homeowners group.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Blue Angels return to Kalispell
The Navy's Blue Angels performance flying team will return to the Flathead Valley in July, providing the centerpiece to the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce's Mountain Madness Air Show.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Issue gravels neighbors
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Hall wants long-range planning commission
In an effort to take a comprehensive look at some of the critical growth issues facing Flathead County, Commissioner Gary Hall is proposing a new long-range planning commission.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Smith Valley minor subdivisions receive partial approval
Final plats for three minor subdivisions in Smith Valley were approved Thursday by the Flathead County commissioners, despite concerns that they might violate local subdivision laws.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Commissioners to determine status of related subdivisions
When should a series of adjacent, related minor subdivisions be treated as a major subdivision and go through public review?
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Planning move 'stepping backwards'
Whitefish planning withdrawal offers another blow to coordinated planning
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Mall lawsuit scheduled for hearing
Oral arguments could soon take place in one of the two lawsuits related to the Glacier Mall proposal.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Biological Station director recognized by peers
The world's largest organization of river ecologists recently recognized a local scientist for 30 years of seminal research.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Marina variance on commissioners' agenda today
After several contentious public hearings over the last seven months, a major lakeshore variance for what would be the largest marina on Flathead Lake finally goes to the Flathead County commissioners for a decision Monday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Bad day for dinos, good day for coal? Researchers propose extraterrestrial connection for Montana coal fields
Note: Art is in Future Photos - "Science-coal"
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Naturalist writes book about the Crown of the Continent
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
School trust lands targeted for development
A new management plan released on Friday will likely result in greater development of state school trust lands in Flathead County and Northwest Montana over the next 20 years.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 1 MONTH AGO
Planning board splits vote on marina proposal
A major lakeshore variance for what would be the largest marina on Flathead Lake failed to earn a positive recommendation from the Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Lowe's on track for January opening
The new Lowe's Home Improvement store in Kalispell is on track for an early January opening, but plans for a new, larger Costco store have been pushed back a few months.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Council tackles light pollution, Whitefish Stage sewer issues
The Kalispell City Council could soon be taking steps to address a growing light pollution problem. It's also moving to extend municipal utilities north along Whitefish Stage Road.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Geologist looks for the stories that Flathead Lake sediments can tell
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Petition seeks to create controlled groundwater area in Smith Valley
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Planning a key issue in commissioner race
From shopping malls to major subdivisions, few things in the Flathead seem to attract as much public scrutiny as land-use planning and growth-related issues.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
TeleTech to begin hiring for call center
About 150 jobs are available, says company official
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Two Rivers amendment put on hold
The Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday tabled a major land-use change covering more than 1,800 acres north of Kalispell to give itself more time to consider all the information and comments.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Evergreen sewer issue proves too complex to resolve
After spending the last nine months trying to figure out how to provide utility service to properties located north and east of the Evergreen sewer district, the Kalispell City Council is almost back to square one.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
City studies utility work at airport
The Kalispell City Council will consider a $145,000 proposal next week to run utilities down the west side of the city airport.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Two Rivers amendment comes before planning board
Proposal covers an area almost half the size of Kalispell
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 2 MONTHS AGO
Lawsuit filed over uses of Courthouse East
Kalispell is heading to court over the future of the old Courthouse East building.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Kalispell pool fees may not increase
Council reviews Woodland Water Park revenue shortage
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Sewer issues, pool fees come before council
The Kalispell City Council will reconsider a previous decision related to sewage treatment service north of Evergreen during tonight's regular meeting.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
County copes with deluge of master plan amendments
It has been a remarkable year for Flathead County master plan amendments, with four more applications scheduled to go before the Flathead County Planning Board this month.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Lawsuit questions cluster subdivision requirements
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Elam shows off a large shaggy mane.
Fantastic fall for fungi
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Lakeside marina grounded for a month
Following three hours of testimony, the Board decided to table the issue temporarily.
DAILY INTER-LAKE | UPDATED 20 YEARS, 3 MONTHS AGO
Prev
Next