Looking Back: $18 million proposal planned to build, remodel school buildings

A look back at past Pilot articles by Whitney England.

10 years ago, Jan. 18, 2012

A lawsuit had just been filed against Flathead County intended to stop the creation of a new greenbelt zone along U.S. Highway 93 between Kalispell and Whitefish. The suit filed by Citizens of a Better Flathead asked the court to rule on the legitimacy of the greenbelt zoning policy, arguing that the policy was inconsistent with the county growth policy that limits strip commercial development between the towns.

20 years ago, Jan. 17, 2002

Community members were concerned with a proposal that would sell Central School, build a new junior high, and also remodel two other school buildings. A facilities plan had recently been presented to the school board and it offered a range of alternatives for the long-term vision of school facilities. Superintendent Jerry House was backing a plan that would move the middle school to the high school building, construct a new high school, and make renovations to Muldown Elementary at a cost just below $18 million.

30 years ago, Jan. 23, 1992

The Whitefish boys basketball team was rolling. Just how good was the team of 1992? Whitefish was defending state champion and sported a 9-0 undefeated record that season. Whitefish had just blown out Bigfork 104-53 and that served as a tune-up for the big game against Ronan where the Bulldogs then squeaked out a 69-65 win. Whitefish was set to play highly-ranked Kalispell in the upcoming week.

40 years ago, Jan. 21, 1982

County commissioners were discussing a proposed subdivision near Whitefish called Lakeview Estates, and after an hour put off a decision on the matter until the next meeting. The subdivision was to be off Big Mountain Road and had earlier been met with disfavor from the county planning staff. Common concerns with the project included increased costs for services such as schools, roads and law enforcement, as well as concerns over traffic and soil stability in the area.

50 years ago, Jan. 20, 1972

Whitefish City Council was considering using a government program for obtaining fluoridated water. Both members of the medical and dental professions expressed strong interest in the need for fluoride to be added to the city’s water. Council planned to turn the issue over to a health committee to conduct a study before making a final decision.