Montana’s unemployment rate was 3.2% in August, lower than the national average of 4.2%, marking 38 consecutive months of the state’s unemployment rate at or below 3.4%. In August total employment rose by 532 jobs, and 1,046 more entered the labor force.
Through the state’s property tax rebate program, people who paid property taxes in Montana during the fiscal year of 2023 can now get a one-time payment for up to $675. Applications must be sent in by October 1st. People who resided in their main homes for at least seven months in 2023 will get the stimulus check.
The University of Montana has launched the first Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program in state history. They will work in hospital clinic care facilities and other community shelters, and with patients with cognitive physical developmental or psychosocial disabilities.
Billings KOA Holiday Campground has officially received the Certified Autism Center designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. KOA is committed to making the campground more accessible and welcoming to autistic and sensory sensitive guests.
The bridge spanning the Yellowstone River at the park gateway community of Gardiner was completed in August 1930. The Gardiner Bridge has now been nominated for the National Register of Historic Places.
Columbia Falls will undergo a comprehensive housing study to draft a new master plan. The study will look at the housing market, survey employers, study the impacts of vacation rentals and second homes, as well as a host of other factors affecting housing.
