FFRG MT’s mission is to guide a community-driven vision of responsible growth in the Flathead Valley, where safety, resource quality, and community character are paramount.
Responsible Growth:
We promote policies and initiatives that support development in alignment with public safety, local culture, and community needs. Responsible growth should enhance, rather than detract from, our region’s unique character.
Community Engagement & Partnerships:
We actively collaborate with community members, governmental bodies, local businesses, and organizations to facilitate informed dialogue, foster collaboration, and empower residents in decision-making processes.
Education & Advocacy:
We educate and inform the public about the benefits of responsible growth. We advocate for policies that align with our core values and mission.
Sustainability:
We advocate for sustainable land use, transportation, and resource management practices.
A coalition of homeowners has filed a lawsuit that challenges the constitutionality of four laws passed by this year’s legislature; SB382, SB245, SB323, and SB528.
The suit takes particular issue with SB 382, the Montana Land Use Planning Act, stating that its changes to the public review process “is in violation of both the letter and the spirit of Montana’s public participation constitutional requirement and must be declared unconstitutional.”
Whitefish Growth Policy Update
First Drafts, MLUPA, Get Involved
Shape the Future of Whitefish, Montana
Your involvement in the Whitefish Growth Policy is crucial to the future of our community, and we are excited to collaborate with you! The city has released the first draft sections of Vision Whitefish 2045 for review and comment. You can review the outline and the drafts here.
Understanding the New Montana Land Use Planning Act (MLUPA)
The recent legislative session introduced the Montana Land Use Planning Act (MLUPA), which changes how public engagement in land use and development happens. Instead of focusing on site-specific developments, the MLUPA emphasizes public participation during the planning and adoption of city land use plans and codes. Once these plans and regulations are in place, many site-specific projects will be reviewed administratively, limiting public input to impacts not previously considered.
Why Your Voice Matters Now
This shift makes it essential for community members to participate in the City’s planning processes, like the Vision Whitefish Growth Policy Update. Your input during these stages ensures that community voices shape the city’s land use policies and regulations.
Get Involved Today
Once the new processes are finalized, public hearings on new developments will no longer take place. The City Administrator will make development decisions based on the completed Growth Policy and its zoning regulations, with limited opportunities for appeal. Therefore, now is the critical time to share your voice and influence the future of Whitefish.
So if we want any input on the future of our town, NOW IS THE TIME TO SHARE OUR VOICE!
Stay Informed and Spread the Word
Sign up for the Vision Whitefish newsletters and updates. Encourage your friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors to join as well. If you missed the Growth Policy kick-off meeting presented by long-term planner Alan Tiefenbach, you can view it by clicking here.
Let’s work together to shape a bright future for Whitefish!
We cannot stress
this enough:
the Whitefish Growth Policy is an extremely big deal, and your participation is paramount and much appreciated.
Read the Latest
Recent News Stories & Op-Eds
Whether you’re passionate about land use policies, smart growth strategies, or fostering a thriving local economy, our blog offers a wealth of perspectives and insights to explore. From expert opinions and policy analyses to personal stories of community activism and stewardship, there’s something here for everyone interested in responsible growth.
Shaping the Future: A Recap of Vision Whitefish 2045
Written by FFRG Executive Director Alyssum Ahler, March 12, 2024 Vision Whitefish 2045 Greetings,...
Montana Housing Laws Update: Unpacking Recent Developments
Written by FFRG Executive Director Alyssum Ahler, January 23, 2024 Legislative Changes: SB 382 -...
How Will the City Use Public Input Into Drafting the Growth Policy?
It would be helpful for the public to know how specifically the city and planning team will...