Stories for August 2018

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Thursday, August 30

Power of the Pedal event returns Sept. 7
August 30, 2018 8:10 a.m.

Power of the Pedal event returns Sept. 7

After 400 donated bikes helped power Guatemalan villages last year, Maya Pedal is again returning to Whitefish for the second annual Power the Pedal event.

Wednesday, August 29

August 29, 2018 3:16 p.m.

Stage II fire restrictions to end

Fire restrictions across northwest Montana are being rescinded effective on Friday.

Spirit of Whitefish
August 29, 2018 2:12 p.m.

Spirit of Whitefish

Doug Reed admits he really can’t turn down volunteer requests to give back to Whitefish.

August 29, 2018 2:30 a.m.

Legals August 29, 2018

No. 2444 WHITEFISH CITY COUNCIL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The regular meeting of the Whitefish City Council will be held on Monday, September 17, 2018 at 7:10 pm in the Whitefish City Council Chambers at 418 E Second Street. During the meeting, the City Council will hold a public hearing on the following items: A request by Homeword to rezone property from WB-1 (Limited Commercial District) to WR-4 (High Density Multi-Family Residential District). The property is currently undeveloped and was the former site of a mobile home neighborhood. The property is located at 530 Edgewood Place and can be legally described as north half of Lot 4, Lots 5 & 6, Block 9, Whitefish Townsite Company 5 Acre Tracts First Addition in Section 25, Townsite 31 North Range 22 West P.M.M., Flathead County (WZC 18-05) Compton-Ring A request by the Whitefish Hotel Group, LLC for a Conditional Zone Change to WB-3/WR-4/SC to permit a parking lot for a hotel/motel on a WR-4 (High Density Residential District) lot. The property is located at 224 Kalispell Avenue and can be legally described as Lot B, Block 46 of the Amended Plat of Lots 1-18 Whitefish Original Townsite in S36 T31N R22W P.M.M., Flathead County (WZC 18-04) Taylor Documents pertaining to these agenda items are available for review at the Whitefish Planning & Building Department, 418 E Second Street, during regular business hours. The full application packets along with public comments and staff report will be available on the City's webpage: www.cityofwhitefish.org under City Council five days prior to the public hearing date noted above. Inquiries are welcomed. Interested parties are invited to attend the meeting and make known their views and concerns. Comments in writing may be forwarded to the Whitefish Planning & Building Department at the above address prior to the hearing or via email: dtaylor@cityofwhitefish.org. For questions or further information regarding these proposals, phone 406-863-2410. WHITEFISH CITY COUNCIL John Muhlfeld, Mayor August 29, 2018 MNAXLP __________________________

Tuesday, August 28

August 28, 2018 3:51 p.m.

Fair results

Whitefish Theatre Co. celebrates anniversary of  bringing theatre, music, dance to stage
August 28, 2018 3:49 p.m.

Whitefish Theatre Co. celebrates anniversary of bringing theatre, music, dance to stage

More than four decades ago a group of theater enthusiasts set out a simple goal to stage a play in Whitefish.

August 28, 2018 3:48 p.m.

Short-term rentals removed from secondary business zoning district

City Council last week adopted a change to effectively prohibit residential short-term rentals in the secondary business district.

August 28, 2018 3:48 p.m.

Nearly $4M in resort tax collected in FY 2018

Whitefish collected nearly $4 million in resort tax during fiscal year 2018.

August 28, 2018 3:47 p.m.

Great show

If you missed the casual, intimate, thoroughly entertaining event at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center last Saturday, you really did miss it! Mike Eldred and David Pickeral are up to new and exciting adventures at the PAC as witnessed by the first of what I hope are many “On the Stage” productions, where, literally, everyone is on the stage. As always Mike was in top form and his dulcet tones were accompanied by two Nashville greats — Jeffrey Steinberg on piano and John Mock on guitar. What fun! Don’t miss the next one!

August 28, 2018 3:47 p.m.

Hospital Healing Garden

North Valley Hospital has broken ground on the Healing Garden, a project funded in part by the North Valley Hospital Foundation, in the field north of the North Valley Hospital parking lot.

August 28, 2018 3:47 p.m.

City encourages open public debate

In a recent article published in the Daily Inter Lake (Aug. 20, 2018, “More Changes Proposed for U.S. 93 South Plan”), Mayre Flowers of CommUnity Consulting (former executive director of Citizens for a Better Flathead) accused the Whitefish City Council of failing to encourage public participation and went so far as to indicate that the city violated the public’s right to participate given last minute changes to a pending land use application that would have amended the city’s growth policy. On behalf of the city, I am compelled to respond to these accusations given our standing commitment to providing an open and transparent decision-making process for all matters that come before our Council.

August 28, 2018 3:46 p.m.

Auditions set for 'Lion King Jr'

ATP Kids, the educational outreach program offered by the Alpine Theatre Project, is holding auditions for its fall session on Wednesday, Sept. 5.

August 28, 2018 3:46 p.m.

Whitefish dog owners now required to get county license

Whitefish dog owners now are required to license their dogs through the county.

August 28, 2018 3:46 p.m.

Firebrand withdraws request for parking lot

Two years have passed since the opening of the Firebrand Hotel, and in that time it has established its place in the community. You may recall that an upscale boutique hotel had been contemplated for downtown Whitefish for the past 25 years. Multiple large, out-of-state developers evaluated the project to no avail. We are proud that we were able to create this desired addition, enhance our town’s economy, and add jobs to the community. The Firebrand has been well received by our guests and community leaders. On June 1 the Firebrand Hotel and the Averill family applied for a permit to create additional parking on the land adjoining the Firebrand’s current parking lot, the reactions to which have spurred my writing of this letter.

August 28, 2018 3:46 p.m.

City approves mixed-use building on O'Brien Ave.

Whitefish City Council last week gave its approval for a mixed-use building to be constructed on O’Brien Avenue.

August 28, 2018 3:45 p.m.

WMR parking auction benefits food bank

A parking space auction by Whitefish Mountain Resort has raised $8,619 in donations for the North Valley Food Bank.

August 28, 2018 3:45 p.m.

No headline

Whitefish City Council meets Tuesday, Sept. 4 at 7:10 p.m. at City Hall at 418 E. Second St. The following agenda items will be discussed, subject to change:

WTC celebrates anniversary with season launch party
August 28, 2018 3:44 p.m.

WTC celebrates anniversary with season launch party

The Whitefish Theatre Company is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a sensational line-up for the 2018-2019 season.

WTC brings old favorites to stage for anniversary season
August 28, 2018 3:43 p.m.

WTC brings old favorites to stage for anniversary season

In celebration of their 40th anniversary, the Whitefish Theatre Company has announced its 2018-2019 season line-up.

August 28, 2018 3:43 p.m.

City increases tax bill on average home less than $5 per month

Whitefish City Council on Aug. 20 approved a $44.2 million budget for fiscal year 2019.

New book shares community's history with Whitefish Lake
August 28, 2018 1:42 p.m.

New book shares community's history with Whitefish Lake

The story of Whitefish Lake is best told by the community.

August 28, 2018 1:41 p.m.

WTC holds auditions for 'Every Brilliant Thing' Sept. 6

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is holding auditions for “Every Brilliant Thing” on Thursday, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

August 28, 2018 1:41 p.m.

Flathead Rapids soccer program offers variety of opportunities

For one local nonprofit, the Great Fish Challenge has been a key factor into bringing soccer to hundreds of community members.

Sharan Baracker
August 28, 2018 1:28 p.m.

Sharan Baracker

Sharan Baracker crossed the finish line into eternity on Monday, Aug. 20 at the age of 73. A true hero of the faith, she was always willing to believe God for a miracle, and always willing to acknowledge that He is sovereign. She ran her race well, with dignity and perseverance and hope in spite of decades of pain and adversity.

Lady Dog golfers take top honors at home
August 28, 2018 1:19 p.m.

Lady Dog golfers take top honors at home

The Whitefish girls golf team got the win at home during last week’s Whitefish Invitational at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.

August 28, 2018 1:19 p.m.

Back to School Bash chance to learn about activities

The Whitefish Education Foundation is hosting a Back to School Bash next month.

August 28, 2018 1:19 p.m.

Future improvements planned for golf course

Improved short game

August 28, 2018 1:04 p.m.

Lady Dogs win 10 in Tip Off tourney

The Lady Bulldogs got a solid start to their season with a 10-2 record at the Western A Volleyball Tip Off Tournament in Browning.

August 28, 2018 1 p.m.

Broncs buck Dogs in season-opener

A second-half surge by the Hamilton Broncs spoiled the season opener for the Bulldogs on Friday.

Monday, August 27

Muldown parents asked to drop off students in front of school building
August 27, 2018 3:46 p.m.

Muldown parents asked to drop off students in front of school building

The Whitefish School District is asking parents who drop off or pick up students at Muldown Elementary School to help fight traffic congestion with new drop off and pick up areas. The school year begins Wednesday, Aug. 29.

Thursday, August 23

August 23, 2018 4:22 p.m.

Thanks to medical professionals

A special thank you to the EMS, fire crew and North Valley Hospital for our great work in my time of need. Your excellent care and support was and is greatly appreciated.

August 23, 2018 4:21 p.m.

Food Bank needs help, despite missing deadline for Great Fish Challenge

People have asked me why the North Valley Food Bank is not in the Great Fish Challenge in 2018 and so I write to share some information and to ask for a bit of help in fundraising for the food bank. The short answer is that we love the Whitefish Community Foundation and we missed the deadline this year due to my personal loss.

August 23, 2018 4:21 p.m.

Loss of trees at prominent intersection heartbreaking

Not a tree left standing. That was predictable, never the less it is a visual shock and heartbreaking. The beautiful grove that greeted travelers at the entrance to Whitefish, the busy corner of Montana 40 and Highway 93, is gone forever. Gone in the blink of an eye, overnight it seems; the five acre forest that formed a welcoming salute on the way into town was cleared to the bare ground.

August 23, 2018 4:21 p.m.

Whitefish city budget reflects prudent spending

The Whitefish City Council has approved the Fiscal Year 2019 (FY19) Budget, running from July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2019. You can view the adopted budget on the city’s web page at http://www.cityofwhitefish.org/.

Master musicians take stage at annual gathering
August 23, 2018 9:51 a.m.

Master musicians take stage at annual gathering

Organizers of the Crown Guitar Festival promise five nights of music at this year’s venue, opening with the Edgar Winter Band, segueing to jazz legends Pat Martino and Lee Ritenour and ending in a grand finale featuring Jim Messina and the Good Road Band, Rusty Young and more.

August 23, 2018 9:40 a.m.

Free music party kicks off Guitar Festival

A free music party will kick off the Crown Guitar Workshop and Festival on Saturday, Aug. 25, at two venues in Bigfork.

Wednesday, August 22

August 22, 2018 2:53 p.m.

Community briefs Aug. 22

August 22, 2018 2:50 p.m.

No headline

A weekly look at past Whitefish Pilot articles, compiled by Daniel McKay.

August 22, 2018 1:45 p.m.

Writers earn scholarships to conference

Two young writers have been given scholarships to the upcoming Flathead River Writers Conference.

Board recommends zone change for potential housing project
August 22, 2018 1:43 p.m.

Board recommends zone change for potential housing project

Whitefish Planning Board last week gave a positive recommendation for a rezone that could pave the way for an affordable housing project on Edgewood Place.

Results from Northwest Montana Fair
August 22, 2018 1:42 p.m.

Results from Northwest Montana Fair

The 2018 Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo wrapped up over the weekend.

City listens for leaks in water system during survey
August 22, 2018 1:42 p.m.

City listens for leaks in water system during survey

Whitefish has been listening for leaks in the water pipes under the city.

August 22, 2018 1:41 p.m.

Holes-in-one

Two folks recently shot holes-in-one at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.

Family launches fundraiser to benefit kind-hearted friend
August 22, 2018 1:37 p.m.

Family launches fundraiser to benefit kind-hearted friend

Those close to Josh Burt know him as a smiling, caring and helpful young man.

Tuesday, August 21

Glacier Skate Academy names new director
August 21, 2018 3:39 p.m.

Glacier Skate Academy names new director

Sean Wirtz and Kristin Cowan, a world-class pairs figure skating duo, are expected to begin coaching skaters in Whitefish this fall.

August 21, 2018 3:39 p.m.

Hall of Fame

Whitefish High School will hold the 2018 Hall of Fame Inductions during the Sept. 7 football game against Butte Central at Memorial Field.

Council shoots down future land use plan
August 21, 2018 3:39 p.m.

Council shoots down future land use plan

Whitefish City Council in a split vote on Monday rejected a land use plan for 70 acres fronting U.S. Highway 93 South.

City begins look at parking in preparation for full plan
August 21, 2018 3:38 p.m.

City begins look at parking in preparation for full plan

Does Whitefish have enough parking spaces to meet the needs of the town? Are those parking spaces easy for visitors to find?

August 21, 2018 3:38 p.m.

Whitefish officials picked for state committee

A Whitefish school administrator and law enforcement official have been named to a statewide emergency response committee.

August 21, 2018 3:38 p.m.

School board approves budget reflecting increased enrollment

The Whitefish School Board last week passed a $21.7 million budget for fiscal year 2019.

August 21, 2018 3:37 p.m.

Students return to class next week

Whitefish students will head back to the classroom on Wednesday, Aug. 29 for the 2018-19 school year.

August 21, 2018 3:37 p.m.

WMR hosts round of bike race

The Whitefish Bike Park this weekend is hosting a leg of the Pacific Northwest Cup Downhill Race.

Fall sports kickoff
August 21, 2018 3:37 p.m.

Fall sports kickoff

As students get ready to return to class, fall sports at Whitefish High School are also underway.

August 21, 2018 3:14 p.m.

No party after inflatable pool popped

Thursday, Aug. 9

Jackie Byrd
August 21, 2018 3:13 p.m.

Jackie Byrd

Mr. Jackie Byrd, 77, of Cherokee County, Georgia, passed away on July 15, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. Jack was born in McLain, Mississippi, on July 12, 1941.

Whitefish Trail Hootenanny celebration Friday
August 21, 2018 1:40 p.m.

Whitefish Trail Hootenanny celebration Friday

Whitefish Legacy Partners is celebrating the Whitefish Trail during the annual Whitefish Trail Hootenanny on Friday, Aug. 24 in Depot Park in downtown Whitefish. The event is from 5-9 p.m.

August 21, 2018 1:40 p.m.

Spirit of Whitefish

The Rotary Club will hold its Spirit of Whitefish celebration on Thursday, Sept. 6 at 6 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center.

August 21, 2018 1:40 p.m.

Snow and Ice Fest

Five local nonprofits who share a passion for winter recreation are collaborating to host a Snow and Ice Fest event at Mountain Trails Park in Whitefish on Thursday, Aug. 23.

August 21, 2018 1:39 p.m.

Member/Guest tourney this week

Member/Guest Tournament

Twins grab title at Northwest regional tourney
August 21, 2018 1:39 p.m.

Twins grab title at Northwest regional tourney

After a 13-0 thrashing of the Cody (Wyoming) Cubs, the Twins are Northwest Class A Regional American Legion baseball champions.

August 21, 2018 8:27 a.m.

Small fire near Big Mountain contained

Fire crews on Saturday responded to a small wildfire burning near the back side of Big Mountain.

Monday, August 20

Giselle (Jessie) Harring
August 20, 2018 2:38 p.m.

Giselle (Jessie) Harring

Giselle (Jessie) Harring passed away April 15, 2018. Her family will host her Celebration of Life on Sept. 22 at the family home, right where it always was, starting at 11:30 a.m. with reflections on Jessie’s life and an opportunity for anyone to speak about their relationship with Jessie. As Jessie wanted, we will close with a toast to Jessie with champagne and chocolate, Jessie’s favorites, then have a typical Harring summer picnic and potluck. Don and Charles will be serving hamburgers and hot dogs to go with the potluck dishes.

August 20, 2018 2:23 p.m.

Small wildfire burns near Big Mountain

A small lightning-caused fire is burning near the back side of Big Mountain.

Rodeo artist brings passions to Whitefish
August 20, 2018 12:16 p.m.

Rodeo artist brings passions to Whitefish

Wherever Bradley Chance Hays’ rodeo career leads him, his art follows.

Wednesday, August 15

Whitefish Lake Swim
August 15, 2018 3:31 p.m.

Whitefish Lake Swim

The Whitefish Lake Swim was held Aug. 11 off of City Beach.

August 15, 2018 2:30 a.m.

Legals August 15, 2018

No. 2441 CITY OF WHITEFISH NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON BUDGET AND PROPERTY TAXES AND ASSESSMENTS The Whitefish City Council has completed the City's preliminary budget for fiscal year 2019, its final, proposed budget for fiscal year 2019, the appropriations, tax levy and assessments, and possible budget amendments for fiscal year 2018, which have been placed on file and are open to inspection in the City Clerk's office located at 418 E. 2nd Street. At the regular meeting of the Whitefish City Council to be held on Monday, August 20, 2018, at 7:10 p.m. in the Whitefish City Council Chambers, 418 E. 2nd Street, the City Council will hold a public hearing for the purposes of receiving public input and approving a final budget, making appropriations, fixing the tax levy and assessments, and approving possible budget amendments for fiscal year 2018 for the following: possible amendments to the annual budget for fiscal year 2018; approve a final budget for fiscal year 2019; levy and assess property taxes, including the Permissive Medical Levy; levy and assess Street Maintenance District No. 1 within the City; levy and assess Special Improvement Lighting Districts No. 1 and No. 4 within the City; levy and assess Parkland and Greenway Maintenance District No. 1 within the City; levy and assess Stormwater Improvement and Maintenance District No. 1 within the City; levy and assess Special Improvement District No. 166 (JP Road); levy and assess Special Improvement District No. 167 (Downtown Parking Structure); and levy and assess for weed control, collection of utility service charges, and/or removal of snow, ice and other impediments. The City of Whitefish intends to budget an increase in revenue from property taxation by 5.77% or $172,365, because of the anticipated increase in taxable value from new property and levying three additional mills. The City of Whitefish also intends to increase various maintenance assessments. All concerned persons are invited to attend the public hearing on all of the above matters as described above. A decision on approving the budget, taxes, assessments, and fiscal year 2018 budget amendments will be made after considering comments at this public hearing. Individuals, any taxpayer or resident may appear or submit written testimony at the hearings and be heard for or against any part of the proposed fiscal year 2018 budget amendments, final budget for fiscal year 2019, appropriations, tax levy and assessments. Written comments may be delivered or mailed to Michelle Howke, City Clerk, 418 E. 2nd Street, PO Box 158, Whitefish, MT 59937, or emailed to mhowke@cityofwhitefish.org. Additional information regarding the proposed amendments, the final budget, property tax revenue, and assessments may be obtained by contacting Dana Smith, Assistant City Manager/Finance Director, 406-863-2405, or visiting the City's website, www.cityofwhitefish.org. August 8, 15, 2018 MNAXLP __________________________

Tuesday, August 14

August 14, 2018 3:44 p.m.

Twins battle for regional title

The Twins finally met their match Monday night, falling to the Bitterroot Red Sox 4-2 in the American Legion Northwest Class A Regional Baseball Tournament.

August 14, 2018 3:43 p.m.

Montana Mid-Am tourney comes to Whitefish this week

Board of Directors

Larry Vernon Trusty
August 14, 2018 3:43 p.m.

Larry Vernon Trusty

It is with great sadness, our family announces the peaceful passing of Larry Vernon Trusty on Aug. 2, 2018 at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He lost his battle with cancer.

Bobbie Stocking
August 14, 2018 3:43 p.m.

Bobbie Stocking

Bobbie Stocking, 98, of Whitefish, Montana was born in Steelman, Saskatchewan, Canada on Jan. 11, 1920 and went to meet her Lord and Savior on Aug. 10, 2018.

Cheryl (Norby) Grefsrud
August 14, 2018 3:43 p.m.

Cheryl (Norby) Grefsrud

On Tuesday, July 31, 2018 Cheryl Grefsrud, grandmother, mother, daughter and sister, passed away at the age of 57.

August 14, 2018 3:42 p.m.

No headline

Whitefish City Council meets Aug. 20 at 7:10 p.m. at City Hall at 418 E. Second St. The following agenda items will be discussed, subject to change:

Interns tell story of their summer in the Bob Marshall
August 14, 2018 3:41 p.m.

Interns tell story of their summer in the Bob Marshall

Pulling weeds in an alpine meadow during the day and sleeping under the stars at night — that’s the life of an intern working for the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation.

August 14, 2018 3:40 p.m.

No headline

Thursday, Aug. 2

Rezone requested for affordable housing project
August 14, 2018 3:37 p.m.

Rezone requested for affordable housing project

A request to rezone property proposed to be developed for affordable housing is set to go before the Whitefish Planning Board on Thursday, Aug. 16.

August 14, 2018 3:37 p.m.

City looks to change zoning regarding short-term rentals

City Council on Monday is set to decide on a zoning text amendment that would prohibit residential short-term rentals in the secondary business district.

August 14, 2018 3:36 p.m.

Council approves change in planning tool for Lakes lot

City Council denied pleas from neighbors to make changes to a decades-old plan that calls for potential commercial development of a lot in The Lakes neighborhood.

August 14, 2018 3:35 p.m.

Council renews lease on building; makes donation to playground

Whitefish City Council, on Aug. 6:

Parking rules for snow plowing to change this fall
August 14, 2018 3:35 p.m.

Parking rules for snow plowing to change this fall

The city of Whitefish is implementing a new road maintenance schedule that will require vehicles to park on alternative sides of the street depending on the date.

Volunteers perform cross-country charity
August 14, 2018 3:35 p.m.

Volunteers perform cross-country charity

For Caroline Smiegal and Caroline Yeager, summer vacation has been pretty intense.

Land plan for south entrance finally set for vote
August 14, 2018 3:35 p.m.

Land plan for south entrance finally set for vote

Whitefish City Council is expected on Monday to make a decision on a land use plan that will likely shape the future development of one of the remaining larger open swaths of property in the city.

August 14, 2018 11:25 a.m.

Stage II fire restrictions begin

All areas in the Northwest Zone Fire Management Area are set to enter Stage II fire restrictions on Thursday, Aug. 16.

Monday, August 13

August 13, 2018 3:55 p.m.

Health department advises monitoring air quality conditions

The Flathead City-County Health Department is encouraging residents to regularly monitor air quality conditions and restrict outdoor activity accordingly as a number of wildfire in the area are impacting air quality.

Glacier Park says structures lost in Howe Ridge Fire
August 13, 2018 12:30 p.m.

Glacier Park says structures lost in Howe Ridge Fire

Structures at the north end of Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park were damaged or lost in the Howe Ridge Fire Sunday night, park officials said, but they have yet to release the number or type of structures.

Friday, August 10

August 10, 2018 3:56 p.m.

NVH health care providers set to rally in support of tobacco tax

Health care providers from North Valley Hospital are participating in a week of action in support of a state ballot measure to raise taxes on all tobacco products by $2.

Country star Josh Turner headlines Northwest Montana Fair concert
August 10, 2018 10:06 a.m.

Country star Josh Turner headlines Northwest Montana Fair concert

Country superstar Josh Turner will bring his deep vocals to the stage as the headliner for the 2018 North West Montana Fair and Rodeo on Wednesday, Aug. 15. The fair and rodeo is scheduled for Aug. 15-19 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds with a theme of “Discover!” Concertgoers can save $3 off day-of ticket prices by purchasing admission early online at www.nwmtfair.com.

Wednesday, August 8

Frances Hatler
August 8, 2018 11:29 a.m.

Frances Hatler

Frances Hatler, 93, long-time resident of Havre, died July 29, 2018, at Oak Ridge Assisted Living Facility in Hastings, Minnesota.

August 8, 2018 11:28 a.m.

Fire danger moved to “extreme”

The fire danger has been increased to “extreme” for most of northwest Montana.

August 8, 2018 2:30 a.m.

Legals August 8, 2018

No. 2441 CITY OF WHITEFISH NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON BUDGET AND PROPERTY TAXES AND ASSESSMENTS The Whitefish City Council has completed the City's preliminary budget for fiscal year 2019, its final, proposed budget for fiscal year 2019, the appropriations, tax levy and assessments, and possible budget amendments for fiscal year 2018, which have been placed on file and are open to inspection in the City Clerk's office located at 418 E. 2nd Street. At the regular meeting of the Whitefish City Council to be held on Monday, August 20, 2018, at 7:10 p.m. in the Whitefish City Council Chambers, 418 E. 2nd Street, the City Council will hold a public hearing for the purposes of receiving public input and approving a final budget, making appropriations, fixing the tax levy and assessments, and approving possible budget amendments for fiscal year 2018 for the following: possible amendments to the annual budget for fiscal year 2018; approve a final budget for fiscal year 2019; levy and assess property taxes, including the Permissive Medical Levy; levy and assess Street Maintenance District No. 1 within the City; levy and assess Special Improvement Lighting Districts No. 1 and No. 4 within the City; levy and assess Parkland and Greenway Maintenance District No. 1 within the City; levy and assess Stormwater Improvement and Maintenance District No. 1 within the City; levy and assess Special Improvement District No. 166 (JP Road); levy and assess Special Improvement District No. 167 (Downtown Parking Structure); and levy and assess for weed control, collection of utility service charges, and/or removal of snow, ice and other impediments. The City of Whitefish intends to budget an increase in revenue from property taxation by 5.77% or $172,365, because of the anticipated increase in taxable value from new property and levying three additional mills. The City of Whitefish also intends to increase various maintenance assessments. All concerned persons are invited to attend the public hearing on all of the above matters as described above. A decision on approving the budget, taxes, assessments, and fiscal year 2018 budget amendments will be made after considering comments at this public hearing. Individuals, any taxpayer or resident may appear or submit written testimony at the hearings and be heard for or against any part of the proposed fiscal year 2018 budget amendments, final budget for fiscal year 2019, appropriations, tax levy and assessments. Written comments may be delivered or mailed to Michelle Howke, City Clerk, 418 E. 2nd Street, PO Box 158, Whitefish, MT 59937, or emailed to mhowke@cityofwhitefish.org. Additional information regarding the proposed amendments, the final budget, property tax revenue, and assessments may be obtained by contacting Dana Smith, Assistant City Manager/Finance Director, 406-863-2405, or visiting the City's website, www.cityofwhitefish.org. August 8, 15, 2018 MNAXLP __________________________

Tuesday, August 7

August 7, 2018 2:57 p.m.

Pair of dumpster-diving bears reported downtown

Thursday, July 26

August 7, 2018 2:57 p.m.

Report says Montana friendly to entrepreneurs

Montana is one of the better places to be an entrepreneur, a new report reveals.

August 7, 2018 2:57 p.m.

Subdivision requested for 142 acres west of town

A request for a 12-lot commercial and residential subdivision on Lupfer Road west of Whitefish is set to go before the Flathead County Planning Board on Aug. 8.

August 7, 2018 2:57 p.m.

Open rehearsals, musician talks part of camp

North Valley Music School in Whitefish holds Camp Festival Amadeus concurrently with the festival at Whitefish Middle School.

Council OKs goals list
August 7, 2018 2:56 p.m.

Council OKs goals list

Whitefish City Council Monday approved its goals list for what it hopes to accomplish in the next few years.

August 7, 2018 2:56 p.m.

WHS Fall sports

Fall sports start this week at Whitefish High School.

Cellist applies lifetime of passion to music
August 7, 2018 2:56 p.m.

Cellist applies lifetime of passion to music

There was never a question that Inbal Segev was meant to have a cello in her hand.

Huckleberry Days bring food, art and fun to Whitefish
August 7, 2018 2:55 p.m.

Huckleberry Days bring food, art and fun to Whitefish

Bringing more than 100 outstanding art, craft and food vendors together for a full weekend of fun in downtown Whitefish this weekend is the annual Huckleberry Days Arts Festival.

Show offers chance to watch artists create
August 7, 2018 2:54 p.m.

Show offers chance to watch artists create

Heart of the West, Nancy Cawdrey Gallery and Cypress Yard will host the Heart of the West Art Show: Gatherers’ Edition Aug. 10-11 in Whitefish.

Land Trust event celebrates open spaces
August 7, 2018 2:54 p.m.

Land Trust event celebrates open spaces

The Flathead Land Trust is hosting The Land Affair on Thursday, Aug. 16 at Cypress Yard in Whitefish as a benefit to celebrate and protect open spaces and wild places throughout northwest Montana. The event begins at 5:30 p.m.

August 7, 2018 2:52 p.m.

Out of the Darkness Walk raises suicide awareness

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in this country, and, sadly, again has made Montana No. 1 for the number of suicides completed in 2017. It touches millions of lives — people of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds — but the research is clear: suicide is preventable, and the more people who stand up for suicide prevention and mental health, the more lives we can save.

August 7, 2018 2:52 p.m.

Tester a champion for women

When election season rolls around, it’s hard to know who to trust and what to believe. But Planned Parenthood Action Fund’s endorsement of Sen. Jon Tester is an endorsement that cuts through all the political double speak and says it like it is: Jon Tester champions Montana women.

August 7, 2018 2:52 p.m.

Owners to blame for dog issues

I find myself baffled by something lately — a child is bitten, hospitalized, has to have rabies shots after being bitten by a dog at the Whitefish Farmers Market a few weeks ago — yet there are still dogs being allowed inside. What is very wrong with this picture? Before anyone goes crazy on me ... imagine it being your child or grandchild. Ask anyone who knows me, I am one of the biggest dog lovers you’ll meet so this is not an attack on the dogs, but it just might be an attack on the owners though.

August 7, 2018 2:52 p.m.

Dogs don't belong at Farmers Market

I love my dog. She is well behaved, soft, cuddly and kids adore her. Would I EVER bring her to any Farmers Market? No. Why would I subject her to the chaos that would be at her level? This is asking for trouble and causes stress for the dogs and children. I know that two children have been bitten by “perfect” dogs at our Whitefish Farmers Market this summer. One child needed to undergo the rabies shot sequence due to the inability to locate the dog and owner. The county sanitarian has asked numerous times to ban dogs at the Farmers Market. What more needs to happen to finally bring on the ban on man’s best friend? If City Council can’t take care of this or the volunteers that organize the event haven’t the ability to see the writing on the wall ... perhaps the brilliant owners do. Please do the right thing and leave your pup at home in the cool shade of their own yard.

Cheryl Grefsrud
August 7, 2018 2:51 p.m.

Cheryl Grefsrud

Cheryl Grefsrud, 57, of Whitefish died July 31, 2018 at her home.

Karen O. Ediger
August 7, 2018 2:51 p.m.

Karen O. Ediger

Karen O. Ediger, 75, of Whitefish died Aug. 3, 2018.

Billie Jean Eisinger
August 7, 2018 2:50 p.m.

Billie Jean Eisinger

Billie Jean Eisinger, 61, of Whitefish passed away July 22, 2018.

Bestwick finishes top of leader board in Big Mountain Run
August 7, 2018 2:50 p.m.

Bestwick finishes top of leader board in Big Mountain Run

Ninety-four runners competed in the 36th Annual Big Mountain Run on Saturday.

August 7, 2018 2:50 p.m.

Schulz, Mance repeat titles at WLGC Club Championship

Club Championship

Twins hold off Sox for state championship
August 7, 2018 2:50 p.m.

Twins hold off Sox for state championship

After fighting off a late surge from the Bitterroot Red Sox, the Glacier Twins are state champions.

Friday, August 3

No headline
August 3, 2018 11:59 a.m.

No headline

There will be a candlelight vigil tonight for the Whitefish woman who was found dead in Kalispell Wednesday.

Wednesday, August 1

August 1, 2018 2:30 a.m.

Legals August 1, 2018

No. 2440 WHITEFISH PLANNING BOARD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The regular meeting of the Whitefish Planning Board will be held on Thursday, August 16, 2018 at 6:00 pm in the Whitefish City Council Chambers at 418 E Second Street. During the meeting, the Board will hold a public hearing on the items listed below. Upon receipt of the recommendation from the Planning Board, the Whitefish City Council will hold a subsequent public hearing on September 4, 2018. City Council meetings start at 7:10 pm at 418 E Second Street in the Whitefish City Council Chambers on the second floor. A request by Homeword to rezone property from WB-1 (Limited Commercial District) to WR-4 (High Density Multi-Family Residential District). The property is currently undeveloped and was the former site of a mobile home neighborhood. The property is located at 530 Edgewood Place and can be legally described as north half of Lot 4, Lots 5 & 6, Block 9, Whitefish Townsite Company 5 Acre Tracts First Addition in Section 25, Townsite 31 North Range 22 West P.M.M., Flathead County (WZC 18-05) Compton-Ring A request by Carolina Homes for a preliminary plat in order to develop a 9-lot subdivision. The property is currently undeveloped and is zoned WR-2 (Two-Family Residential District). The property is unaddressed along Whitefish Avenue and can be legally described as Tract 1 in S1 T30N R22W P.M.M., Flathead County. (WPP 18-07) Minnich A request by the City of Whitefish to rezone one parcel annexed into City limits from County R-1 (Suburban Residential) to WSR (Suburban Residential District). The property is located at 2030 Highway 93 West and can be legally described as Tract 1CACA in S35 T31N R22W P.M.M., Flathead County. (WZC 18-06) Minnich A request by the City of Whitefish to rezone three parcels annexed into City limits from County R-4 (Two-Family Residential) to WR-2 (Two-Family Residential District). The parcels are currently unaddressed, along State Park Road and Salmon Run, and can be legally described as Lots 2, 3, and 5 in Pattons Sub Amd L1-4, L6-8 & L14-26 BLK 2 in S26 T31N R22W P.M.M., Flathead County. (WZC 18-07) Minnich Documents pertaining to these agenda items are available for review at the Whitefish Planning & Building Department, 418 E Second Street, during regular business hours. The full application packets along with public comments and staff report will be available on the City's webpage: www.cityofwhitefish.org under Planning Board six days prior to the Planning Board public hearing date noted above. Inquiries are welcomed. Interested parties are invited to attend the meeting and make known their views and concerns. Comments in writing may be forwarded to the Whitefish Planning & Building Department at the above address prior to the hearing or via email: dtaylor@cityofwhitefish.org. For questions or further information regarding these proposals, phone 406-863-2410. WHITEFISH PLANNING BOARD Steve Qunell, Chair August 1, 2018 MNAXLP __________________________