Townsend City Council Reviews Park Proposal, Fire Agreement, And Rail Plans
Author: Rachael Brug, Staff Reporter
Townsend City Council Reviews Park Proposal, Fire Agreement, and Rail Plans
Rachael Brug
MT43 News Staff Reporter
The Townsend City Council met on September 17, with Mayor Vickie Rauser calling the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Council members present included Angie Wintrow, JB Howick, Vivian Boaz, Nate Brown, and Doug Sitton.
During public comment, Jan Hubber proposed naming a city park after a local volunteer and requested to be added to an October agenda for further discussion. The Council agreed to consider possible locations for this recognition.
Sheri Heavrin, representing Townsend Schools, requested a street closure for the Homecoming Parade on October 3 from 10:30 to 11:00 a.m., and permission for students to paint paw prints on streets near the school. Both requests were unanimously approved.
Mayor Rauser updated the council on correspondence, including leadership changes at MMIA and a letter from the Department of Transportation regarding the 2025 statewide improvement program.
The council approved this year’s tax levy at 68.42 mills, with 5.35 carry-forward mills available for next year. Mayor Rauser explained that the city did not need to levy for PERS and Comp Insurance Funds this year due to changes in requirements.
A lengthy discussion was held on updating the Fire Mutual Aid Agreement between the City and Rural Fire departments. City Fire Chief Shawn Simon and council members discussed equipment needs, cost-sharing, and the history of cooperation between the two departments. The council agreed to review existing agreements and draft a new one for legal review.
Council member JB Howick provided an update on the Big Sky Rail project, noting a potential timeline for passenger rail service between 2032 and 2034. He emphasized the benefits of rail for Townsend and encouraged the city to remain proactive in attracting a station.
Other business included pending ordinances, updates on city parks, and a reminder about the upcoming Trails Committee meeting. The next city council meeting is scheduled for October 7.
