Broadwater County Commissioners Advance ADU Guidelines, Address Solid Waste And Subdivision Approvals
Author: Rachael Brug, Staff Reporter
Broadwater County Commissioners Advance ADU Guidelines, Address Solid Waste and Subdivision Approvals
Rachael Brug
Staff Reporter
The Broadwater County Commission convened on Wednesday, September 17, tackling a range of issues from regional passenger rail planning to solid waste collections and the ongoing challenge of regulating accessory dwelling units (ADUs).
Passenger Rail Possibilities Could Shape Townsend’s Future—And Its Trail Network
At the September 17 meeting, Commissioner Randolph provided an in-depth update from the recent Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority Conference in Livingston, highlighting both the excitement and complexity surrounding the return of passenger rail service to southern Montana. Randolph presented proposed route maps that could bring Amtrak or other passenger rail providers through Townsend, Helena, or Butte, with the final decision resting on national-level negotiations and federal funding.
A key takeaway from the conference, according to Randolph, was the advice from seasoned rail advocates: communities should focus first on securing a train route before investing energy in station planning or amenities. “There’s no sense worrying about funding for a station if you don’t have a train,” she relayed, echoing the wisdom of speakers from Mississippi who successfully brought passenger rail back to their region. Federal reauthorization, expected by May 2026, will play a decisive role in which Montana towns are included on the new line.
Randolph noted that even if Townsend is not ultimately selected for a station, the economic and tourism benefits of a nearby passenger rail corridor would still be significant. For example, she cited a recent $15 million federal grant to Malta, Montana, for rail improvements, with studies showing that such investments can bring up to five times their value in local economic activity.
Potential Impacts on Local Trails and the Silos Project
The commission also discussed how passenger rail could interface with local recreation infrastructure, particularly the region’s expanding trail network and the Silos recreation area. If Townsend were to secure a passenger rail stop, it would present new opportunities—and challenges—for connecting visitors to key destinations such as the Silos, a popular site for boating, camping, and events.
Randolph suggested that a rail station could necessitate new shuttle or bus services to move visitors between the train stop, downtown Townsend, and the Silos area. This, in turn, could drive investment in multi-use trails and non-motorized pathways, enhancing both resident quality of life and visitor experience. The commission recognized that integrating rail, trail, and recreation planning will be critical for maximizing the benefits of any future passenger service.
The topic also intersected with ongoing local efforts to improve and expand the county’s trail system, coordinated in part by the BCDC Trails Committee. As discussions about the Silos and trail connectivity continue, commissioners agreed that a holistic approach—tying together transportation, recreation, and tourism—will be essential for future growth.
Solid Waste Equity Recovery Program Moves Forward
Public Works Director T.J. Gravely presented a draft letter for the 2022-23 Equity Recovery Program, aimed at collecting $103,000 in unpaid solid waste assessments. Gravely noted, “With the Solid Waste Department being an enterprise fund, every dollar counts.” The letter, which will be signed by the commissioners, gives delinquent property owners until December 31 to pay or arrange a payment plan. The commission praised the community’s response so far, having already recovered $82,000 in overdue assessments. If the remaining funds are not collected, future solid waste fees may need to increase.
Excavator Declared Surplus
The commission unanimously approved a resolution to declare a county-owned E-120B excavator as surplus property. Gravely explained that the equipment has reached the end of its useful life, and proceeds from its sale at auction will help fund its replacement.
Fairview Minor Subdivision Receives Final Approval
Community Development Director Nicole Brown presented the Fairview Minor Subdivision for final plat approval. Brown detailed compliance with all conditions, including DEQ approval, fire protection, weed management, and tax payments. The one-lot subdivision, previously under agricultural exemption, is now cleared for development. The commission approved the final plat without objection.
Ongoing Debate: Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Guidelines
A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to refining the county’s approach to ADU approvals. With state law (SB 532) soon to be codified and increased local interest in ADUs, commissioners and staff discussed the need for a clear, objective process for responding to DEQ requests. Brown explained that the county’s lack of zoning complicates matters, and the goal is to provide landowners and DEQ with a transparent, non-restrictive path for ADU approval.
After extensive discussion, the commission agreed to shift from formal regulations to a simplified “fact sheet” and application form. The new documents will clarify that up to three ADUs may be allowed on a parcel, outline sanitation and solid waste requirements, and ensure landowners acknowledge any private covenants. The commission opted not to require fire district sign-off, but will notify relevant agencies as needed.
Other Business
The commission approved minutes from previous meetings and two sets of claims totaling over $62,000. Commissioners reminded the public that there will be no meeting next week due to the MACO annual conference.
The next meeting is scheduled for October 1, when the revised ADU fact sheet and application will be up for discussion and possible adoption.
