Townsend City Council Tackles Water Rights, Event Ordinance, and Bids Farewell to Doug Sitton
Author: Rachael Brug, Staff Reporter
Townsend City Council Tackles Water Rights, Event Ordinance, and Bids Farewell to Doug Sitton
Rachael Brug
Staff Reporter
The Townsend City Council’s December meeting was marked by in-depth discussions on local water rights, the adoption of a long-debated event ordinance, and the heartfelt farewell of Council Member Doug Sitton, who attended his final meeting.
Water Rights and Wells: A Complex Challenge
Water issues took center stage as Councilman JB Howick introduced an informational update on the evolving legal landscape surrounding exempt water wells. He referenced a recent report from the Montana League of Cities and Towns, which details ongoing efforts to address the so-called “exempt well loophole” in state water law. Originally created in the 1970s to ease small subdivision development, the loophole has led to a proliferation of wells—raising concerns about impacts on agricultural water availability and sparking legal disputes, including the well-known Horse Creek subdivision case.
Councilman Howick urged the council to consider how potential changes to state law could affect Townsend. He pointed out that if the loophole is closed, undeveloped lots along Highway 12 might be required to connect to the city’s water system, which now extends along that corridor. He recommended that the council address non-contiguous water connections in the city’s next water ordinance review.
Representative Jane Gillette, attending as a guest, acknowledged the complexity and contentiousness of the issue. She described legislative attempts to find a compromise between agricultural interests and developers, noting that a recent bill died in the Senate on a tie vote. Gillette emphasized the importance of water system expansion and highlighted ongoing state funding for such projects. She also discussed the “use it or lose it” principle in Montana water law, explaining that municipalities must demonstrate beneficial use of their water rights or risk losing them.
The council also discussed the city’s current well capacity and the potential need for a fourth well in the future. Because Townsend is located in a closed basin, any new well would likely require water rights mitigation—meaning the city would need to offset any additional water taken from the basin, possibly by working with nearby water sources like Canyon Ferry.
Event Ordinance Adopted After Revisions
Another major item was the adoption of a new event ordinance, which establishes clear guidelines for permitting and public notification of events within city limits. After a public hearing and several rounds of revisions, the council made final tweaks to clarify language around application deadlines, animal control, and the process for announcing event permits. Council members agreed that the city should be responsible for announcing approved event permits at least 45 days before the event, ensuring transparency and adequate notice to residents.
The ordinance was adopted unanimously, with Mayor Vickie Rauser congratulating the council on reaching consensus after extensive deliberation.
Farewell to Council Member Doug Sitton
The evening concluded with a tribute to outgoing Council Member Doug Sitton. Sitton reflected on his years of service, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside fellow council members, city staff, and local organizations like the Rotary and Chamber of Commerce. He spoke candidly about the challenges and rewards of public service, noting the importance of listening, collaboration, and setting aside personal politics for the good of the community.
Council members thanked Sitton for his dedication and leadership, emphasizing the positive impact he has had on Townsend. Sitton assured the council he would remain an active and supportive member of the community.
The meeting adjourned with holiday wishes and a sense of accomplishment as the city prepares for the challenges and opportunities of the coming year.
