Support stormwater project

We need your help!  For over two years the Flathead County Commissioners have put off making a decision whether to move forward with the measures needed to complete the Bigfork Stormwater Project.  In 2013 the County received approval from the Legislature for a grant from the Dept. of Natural Resources and Conservation of $100,000 to help with constructions costs and set up expenses.  This grant will not only lower construction costs but would pay for the administrative costs of setting up the Rural Special Improvement District (RSID) for the Bigfork Stormwater Project.  Without their action, the grant will expire on December 31, 2014.

 Completion of the first phases of the Stormwater Project has shown significant results in reductions of pollutants.  Post construction sample analysis identifies levels of sediment, carbons, nitrogen, phosphorus and heavy metals—all below federal benchmarks.  The system is working!

 We believe the community should have a say in the process.  Turning back the grant may have long lasting consequences for consideration of future grants. The estimated cost to taxpayers would be approximately $35 per year for 20 years.  Taxpayers would have a 90-day period to protest the RSID.

 On Monday, July 21, 2014 at 10:30am, the Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork will ask the Flathead County Commissioners to sign a Resolution of Intent to move forward with the Rural Special Improvement District for the Bigfork Stormwater Project.

 Please show your support by attending this meeting or writing to the Commissioners:

Flathead County Commissioners

800 S. Main

Kalispell, MT 59901

Sue Hanson, Bigfork