Development News for Belgrade, Montana

Public Forum Addresses Sidewalk Weeds and Downtown Roundabout Concerns

During the public forum, resident Vivian Kraus inquired about the responsibility for maintaining weeds on sidewalks and roadsides in the area of Cruiser from Westwood Drive down to 13th Street. City Manager Cardwell explained that the adjacent property owner is generally responsible for maintaining sidewalks and the space between the sidewalk and curb. He offered to follow up with Ms. Kraus to ensure the specific area was understood. Ryan McDonald, representing petitioners concerned about the downtown roundabout, requested that the roundabout be a community-based decision and a commission topic, with educated recommendations and a chance for community input and voting. He highlighted that over 1,200 signatures have been collected opposing the current roundabout plan. City Manager Cardwell addressed the roundabout concerns, noting that discussions have spanned over two and a half years and involved more than two meetings. He clarified that the city has limited control over the state-owned highway intersection and is working in partnership with the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT). He encouraged citizens to communicate concerns to the state Highway Commission and MDT.

Belgrade to Dissolve City-County Planning Board, Returns Extraterritorial Jurisdiction to Gallatin County

The Belgrade City Council discussed and approved Resolution 2026-9, formally withdrawing the city from the Belgrade-Gallatin County City-County Planning Board and transitioning extraterritorial planning jurisdiction back to Gallatin County, effective June 30th, 2026. This action follows a 50-year participation in the joint planning board and administration of the surrounding Belgrade Planning Area (ETJ). The move is primarily driven by the Montana Land Use Planning Act (MLUPA), which makes it difficult for the city to administer planning outside its municipal boundaries through that process. City staff noted that most other cities in Montana have opted out of such joint planning boards. The transition aims to provide clearer direction, policies, and zoning within Belgrade's municipal boundaries, simplifying processes for developers and residents seeking city services. This is expected to be the last remaining city-county planning board in the state, with only Lewistown potentially still having one. The city will need to adopt an interim zoning ordinance and make changes to its zoning code to reflect the shift in planning authority. The resolution was moved by Council Member Simon and seconded by Council Member Bell.

Water Quality Board Member Expresses Concern Over Aquifer Impact from Growth; Senior Center Meetings Rescheduled

Council Member Minakuchi shared insights from her participation on the water quality board, noting growing concerns about wells and septic systems due to community expansion. She highlighted the challenge of securing sufficient funds to study and manage the impact on the aquifer, especially with limited staff. The increasing difficulty in drilling new wells and septic systems, along with some established wells going dry, is a significant concern. She emphasized the need for funding to address these issues, particularly as water has become a pressing concern in Belgrade. Council Member Bell updated that senior center meetings are off schedule on the calendar and the next meeting will be in July.

Belgrade Approves Preliminary Plat for Yukon Commercial Minor Subdivision

The Belgrade City Council granted preliminary plat approval for the Yukon Commercial Minor Subdivision. The project involves subdividing a 21.36-acre property into three commercial/industrial lots and one stormwater lot. The property is zoned Flex Employment, which permits light industrial, tech office, research and development, and commercial uses. The proposed land uses are consistent with zoning regulations and compatible with surrounding Flex Employment and Commercial Corridor districts. Existing commercial facilities are on the southern end of the property. Requirements for a public hearing and environmental assessment were waived as it is a first minor subdivision. Adjoining property owners were notified. The parkland dedication requirement also does not apply to this type of subdivision. Easements, including an avigation easement with the Gallatin Airport Authority, will be required. Sidewalks are present along East Frank Road and Yukon Lane. Proposed water and sanitary sewer facilities need approval from the Director of Public Works and the State DEQ. The subdivision will not impact critical wildlife habitat, public health and safety concerns are addressed by existing fire hydrants, and airport concerns are covered by the avigation easement. A weed management plan was approved, and a memorandum of understanding with the County Weed Control District is required before final plat approval. The subdivision will have no impact on agriculture. The planning board recommended preliminary plat approval on May 27th, 2026. Staff recommended approval with standard conditions, including easements, infrastructure improvements, weed control, city covenants, and road standards. The motion to approve was moved by Council Member Menakuchi and seconded by Council Member Bell, passing unanimously.