Development News for Great Falls, Montana

Historic Preservation Advisory Commission Welcomes Two New Members

The City Commission reappointed Channing Hartelius and appointed Vernon Peterson to the Historic Preservation Advisory Commission for three-year terms through April 30, 2029. Hartelius was eligible for a second term, having been appointed in May 2023. Mr. Ken Robinson, who had served two full terms, was not eligible for reappointment. Mr. Vernon Peterson submitted an application in response to advertising for citizen interest. The HPAC discussed the terms and applications on May 13th, 2026, and their consensus was that both individuals would be a good fit for the Commission. Commissioner McKinley moved to approve the reappointments and appointments, and the motion was seconded and carried.

City Commission Confirms Carl Donovan's Appointment to Transit Board Amidst Election Concerns

The City Commission confirmed the appointment of Carl Donovan to the Great Falls Transit District Board. This appointment was made by the county commission because no candidates filed for the two open elected positions by the deadline. Donovan, a long-time board member since 2001, was unable to file due to medical issues but had applied to the county. The appointment fills one of the two open positions for a term from June 1, 2026, through May 31, 2030. There was some commission discussion regarding appointing someone to an elected position, with one commissioner preferring to follow bylaws and form a special committee to appoint someone. However, the motion to confirm Donovan's appointment carried with a 4-1 vote.

Major Developments Announced: Janeke Campus, Military Investments, and New University Programs Poised to Transform Great Falls

City Manager Greg Dolan reported on significant recent developments in Great Falls, including a groundbreaking for a new gate at Malmstrom Air Force Base, signifying a precursor to the Sentinel ICBM upgrade with a projected investment of $1.2 billion over 10 years. The Montana Air National Guard plans to invest another $300 million into its facilities. Toro University is establishing a new law school and nursing program. Most notably, the announcement that Janeke (Jana Key) will build a major manufacturing campus in Great Falls is highlighted as a game-changer that will reshape the city. Dolan emphasized that Janeke chose Great Falls not just for business reasons, but for the community's spirit, work ethic, and partnerships. He projected significant ripple effects including new jobs, construction, families, housing demand, and infrastructure needs. Dolan expressed gratitude to the state, the Great Falls Development Alliance, community partners, and city staff for their efforts in securing this development and thanked the Janke family for their investment.

Housing Authority Board Sees Reappointments for Spence and Bruno

The City Commission reappointed Doug Spence to the Great Falls Housing Authority Board of Commissioners for a five-year term through June 30, 2031, and reappointed Kenneth Bruno for a two-year term through June 30, 2028. Spence was seeking a second five-year term, having been initially appointed in May 2020 and reappointed in June 2021. Bruno was seeking reappointment after serving a partial term since November 4th, 2025. Jewel James, also appointed on November 4th, 2025, was not interested in an additional term. No additional applications were received despite advertising. The board met on May 21, 2026, and recommended these reappointments. Commissioner Wilson moved to approve the reappointments, which was seconded and carried.