Local government review on June primary ballot

On the June primary ballot, Whitefish voters are being asked to decide if they want a government review to examine the city government.  

The local government review is constitutionally required every 10 years as in Article XI, Section 9 of the 1972 Montana Constitution. 

Whitefish City Council decided to put the question before voters on whether they’d like a review. Election Day is June 4.

This is an opportunity for citizens to review their city's power and form of government and to make recommendations for improvements in their structure of government, according to the city of Whitefish. Cities that choose to participate will elect study commissioners to evaluate the local government's structure and propose recommendations for improvements. 

If a majority of voters say no, the process ends. 

If a majority of voters say yes, a five-member commission will be elected in November to examine and submit recommendations to the public. 

The commission would begin work in 2025 and in 2026 the voters accept or reject the commission's recommendations.

The cost of the study commission would not exceed $21,445, according to the city.
Topics not included in the scope of the local government review, include removing or disciplining staff members or individuals serving in elected office; adding, changing, or removing services, programs, policies, or ordinances; changing the election process; or fees, assessments, taxes, or other service funding mechanisms
To learn more about the local government review process, visit: https://www.montana.edu/extension/localgov/mtvoterreview/index.html

For questions, contact Michelle Howke, Whitefish City Clerk at 406-863-2402 or email mhowke@cityofwhitefish.org.