Bigfork Eagle editorial

Representation

When it comes to growth and planning, is Bigfork's voice being heard at the county level? As an unincorporated village, it is difficult to gauge how much impact our little town has on the Flathead County Commissioner's ideas for the future.

Yes, we have the Bigfork Land Use Advisory Committee, which offers recommendations about planning in our area. And we have the Bigfork Steering Committee, which is attempting to reevaluate the Bigfork Land Use Plan. But why is it that we do not have any representation on the county's Long-Range Planning Commission?

The commission is the brainchild of Commissioner Gary Hall. The focus of the group is to shape the way growth happens in the valley. Members of the commission are appointed by the county commissioners and include city council members, representatives from law enforcement, even an environmentalist or two. Growth is the biggest issue facing communities along the north shore of Flathead Lake. Why, then do we not have one single person sitting on this commission who represents Bigfork's interests?

It has been argued that the commission, at nearly 15 members, is too large. Yet, Ashley Lake has two members, Evergreen has a member and there is even a representative from the LeBrant/Lindsey neighborhood. It has also been mentioned that, as an unincorporated village with two planning groups already in existence, Bigfork does not need any more representation at the county level. Bigfork, Lakeside and Somers need all the representation they can get. Other towns in the county with actual city government and planning boards of their own get representation on the commission. Aren't they well represented at the county level as well? Representatives are being plucked from land use advisory committees and planning boards around the valley. Why not one from BLUAC?

As an integral part of Flathead County, Bigfork is not exempt from the intense growth that is occurring. In fact, developers are frothing at the mouth to get a hold of north shore property. The commission is charged with developing a long-range vision for the county. Bigfork should have a hand in that vision.