Governor Gianforte Requests Presidential Major Disaster Declaration
Governor Greg Gianforte has asked President Donald Trump to issue a presidential major disaster declaration for Lincoln and Sanders counties and the Blackfeet Nation due to flooding in northwestern Montana. The governor’s request, submitted Tuesday, outlines the known impacts of the disaster on affected Montana communities.
Montana Food Banks to Receive Massive Donation
In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is providing food to multiple locations across the United States, including one in the Gallatin Valley. A truck scheduled to arrive Friday will deliver 40,000 pounds of food on 44 pallets. The food will be distributed locally, including to food banks in Big Timber, Gardiner, and Livingston.
Montana DOC Details Prison Water Crisis Response, Technology Overhaul at Budget Hearing
Montana Department of Corrections officials say infrastructure failures, technology upgrades, and new rehabilitation efforts are reshaping operations following a major water system failure at Montana State Prison. According to agency analysts, biennial budgeting and past infrastructure bills are giving the department greater flexibility as it invests in projects such as a new offender management system and additional low-custody housing.
Strong Winds in the Forecast Statewide
Nearly all of Montana is under an official high wind warning, meaning the National Weather Service expects wind speeds of 58 miles per hour or greater. While warning status may vary by region, forecasters expect strong winds to move west to east through late this evening. In northwest Montana, where Libby is dealing with ongoing flooding, a cold front is expected to mix with moisture from an atmospheric river, producing rain and snow along with strong winds.
Montana Has Seen the 12th Most Norovirus Outbreaks Per Capita Over the Past Decade
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Outbreak Reporting System, Montana has recorded the 12th highest number of norovirus outbreaks per capita over the past decade. The risk of infection from the so-called “winter vomiting bug” often increases during the holiday season, when people gather indoors and share food—conditions especially favorable for the spread of norovirus.
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Officials have finalized the sale of a 53,000-acre conservation easement in northwest Montana from Green Diamond Resource Company to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. The agreement prevents intensive development of the land and ensures continued public access for hunting and other outdoor recreation.
The Montana Public Service Commission reached an agreement Tuesday with the Helena Valley North Star subdivision aimed at resolving years of resident complaints about water service. Under the agreement, the PSC will not enforce a fine as long as North Star complies with six key requirements.
Gallatin County has long faced rising youth mental health needs with limited resources to address them. Lighthouse Ranch, a nonprofit organization, provides teens and families with mental health services, residential care, and crisis support. To expand its services and meet growing demand, the organization hopes to raise $8.5 million to open a full-service campus for local families.
Construction is underway on the new Eagle Seeker Clinic at the Eagle Seeker Community Center in Billings. The clinic is part of a $33 million expansion project by the Native American Development Corporation and will allow for expanded medical services at the site, located at 1125 Broadwater Avenue.
Employees at Montana Resources in Butte spent their only day off this week filling Christmas baskets for community members in need, continuing a tradition that began in 1989. This year, workers are packing 325 food baskets for families across the Mining City.
