07/09/2026
There is so much exciting progress happening in Great Falls right now, but with growth also comes difficult decisions for your elected officials.
One of those decisions is the Little Shell Tribe’s request for annexation to help provide much-needed housing. I know there are neighbors who have concerns, and I respect their right to share them. Your City Commission is committed to listening carefully to all public comment.
At the same time, we have a legal and ethical responsibility to make decisions based on the law, the facts, and the standards established in our ordinances, not on personal opinions, assumptions, prejudice, or discrimination. Fair housing laws exist to ensure that all applicants are treated equally, and our duty is to apply those laws consistently to every development proposal that comes before us.
I’ve received several phone calls asking me to deny this project. I respect those viewpoints, but so far, I have not been presented with legal or factual reasons that would justify denying the application under the standards we are required to follow. Personal disagreement alone is not a lawful basis for denial.
I encourage everyone who wishes to participate in this process to do so respectfully and to focus on facts, evidence, infrastructure impacts, traffic, public safety, and other relevant planning considerations. Thoughtful public input helps us make better decisions, and every voice deserves to be heard.
Great Falls has always been strongest when we uphold the rule of law, treat people fairly, and work together to address the challenges that come with growth.