Busy Time of Year!

Happy December, Missoula County! It’s going to be a busy month ahead. Here are a few things on our calendar that you may be interested in.

Tuesday, December 8 at 6 p.m.: Commissioners will consider the Agricultural Review from our Community and Planning staff as they work through Growth Policy updates. The Commission will meet in City Council Chambers. This meeting is open to the public. More info: http://bit.ly/1ltjAU0

Thursday, December 10 at 1:30 p.m.: Parks and Trails Award presentation ceremony. Please join the Commissioners and County Parks, Trails and Open Lands staff as they present the 2015 Parks Stewardship Award. This is open to the public.

Wednesday, December 16 at 1:30 p.m.: The Commissioners' Public Meeting. Meetings are held in Conference Room B14 within the County Administration Building, located at 199 West Pine Street. Topics for action consideration include family transfers, upcoming events and proclamations. Meetings are also telecast by MCAT. 

The Commissioners will hold their routine Administrative Meetings:

• Dec. 8-10 at 10 a.m. in Conference Room 206 - located at 199 West Pine Street.
• Dec. 15-17 at 10 a.m. in Conference Room 206 - located at 199 West Pine Street.
• Dec. 22 at 10 a.m. in Conference Room 206 - located at 199 West Pine Street.
• Dec. 29 at 10 a.m. in Conference Room 206 - located at 199 West Pine Street.

All Administrative meetings are open to the public. 

Commissioners' Office will be closed on Thursday, Dec. 24 and Friday, Dec. 25 in observation of the Christmas holiday.

Tax Bills Available Online Saturday, Oct. 31, 2015

Missoula County tax bills will be mailed the first week of November to all area residents. Tax bills will also be available online Saturday, Oct. 31, 2015. Instructions to access these bills are below. Taxes are due Dec. 10, 2015.

Montana law requires that taxes are due within 30 days after the tax notice is postmarked. Tax payments will be accepted as early as Oct. 31.

Taxes can be paid:

• By mail: 200 West Broadway, Missoula MT, 59803.
• Online payment: https://csa.co.missoula.mt.us/itax/.
• In-person: Missoula County Courthouse Annex.
• Courthouse drop box: located within the west parking lot of the Courthouse.

To access tax bills online:

•  Visit: https://csa.co.missoula.mt.us/itax/.
• Searches can be completed by last name or tax ID.
• After the query has run, click “Show Current Tax Bill” within the middle of the screen.
• Electronic versions of the bill can be saved or printed from this window.

Dispelling Election Myths

“When I update my address at the post office, DMV, or any other government office, my voter registration is updated too.”

• MYTH: Even though your information is updated via one government agency, it does not mean that information is updated in sister agencies. Changes in a voter’s information require a signature, meaning your information can not be updated in other agencies without that signature. Only one government office partners with ours to register you and that is the Driver’s License Center. There, voters can register to vote as they update or receive a new driver’s license. In the end, if you’ve moved, changed your name, or opened up a new PO Box, add filling out a new voter registration card to the list of things to update.

“If you vote, you will be summoned to serve as a juror.”

• MYTH: Voter registration was formerly the only source to summon jurors. However, over time, due to huge shifts in voter registrations, vehicle registration was added to the juror pull. This helped reduce the number of new registrations and cancellations before and after elections and keep voter registration numbers steady. Election Administrators rely on accurate voter registration numbers to run a successful election (for example, they need to know how many ballots to print!). As long as you own a car and/or are registered to vote, you will be called for jury duty!

“Election voting machines are rigged because they’re programmed overseas.”

• MYTH: False, false, and false! Election reform kicked off after the Election of 2000 (remember the hanging chad?). Before 2000, systems and practices were not uniform across counties or states. But after this controversy, Congress passed the Help America Vote Act in 2002 to reform voting systems and practices. Today, there is intense scrutiny on voting equipment and it can take years for a voting machine to be approved. For instance, any new technology has to go through rigorous testing at the federal level, which can take years as they test equipment for everything (heat, cold, elevation, humidity, fire, you name it!). After the federal certification process, voting equipment must be certified at a state level. This can take several months of rigorous testing. Any software or hardware associated with the voting machines goes through all the same processes. Missoula County works with a vendor from Omaha, Nebraska named Election Systems & Software. ES&S covers 75 percent of the United States and is in good standing with the Election Assistance Commission. Any programming, or technical assistance is all done domestically. In fact, our technician who services and maintains all of our equipment is from Butte! All of our machines are tested several times before an election to confirm their accuracy. The greatest testament to the accuracy of our voting machines is that the results have always been upheld when recount (ballots counted by hand) have been done over the years.

“If you don’t vote all the races on the ballot, it won’t count.”

• MYTH: As a voter, you have the right to vote every race on the ballot, a few, or none. If you skip a race, it will not invalidate your ballot. When a voter opts out of a race, that blank race is counted as an “under vote” and the remaining voted races will be counted. A vote does not count if you make too many selections in a race. When too many selections are made, that is called an “over vote.” But again, the remaining races will be counted if done so correctly. Voters also do not have to vote on every issue within the same ballot. Only those voted upon will be counted. Those left blank will in no way invalidate your ballot. 

“Absentee ballots are not secret.”

• MYTH: An absentee ballot packet includes: Instructions, a ballot, a blue secrecy envelope, and a signature envelope. The blue secrecy envelope protects the voter’s ballot from viewing as it goes through the receiving process. For an absentee ballot to be accepted, the signature on the outer signature envelope must be verified and accepted in the voter database. The ballot packet is placed with other accepted ballot packets to be reconciled. Once it has been determined that the number of physical ballots match the number that have been recorded in the system, the separation process begins. It is at this stage that the blue secrecy envelope is removed from the signature envelope and is grouped with other blue secrecy envelopes in preparation for counting. Up to this point, the ballot has not been removed from the secrecy envelope, which prevents anyone working in this process to see how someone has voted. Sometimes voters fear that someone will see how they voted, so they remove their name and address from the signature envelope. If our office receives a ballot packet without any identifying information, which prevents us from assigning voter credit to that person, we cannot accept that ballot. 

“Ex-Convicts cannot vote.”

• MYTH: This is a rule that varies state by state, and Montana is a state that allows ex-cons to vote. If you are serving in a penal institution, meaning a judge has sentenced you and time is being served, you lose your right to vote. However, once you leave that penal institution, your right to vote is reinstated. A half-way-house or probation is not a penal institution, so even in these circumstances you can vote. 

“If you live overseas, you cannot vote.”

• MYTH: Totally false! If you are a member of the military, whether domestic or overseas, or if you’re a U.S. citizen residing overseas, you still maintain a right to vote. Voters living overseas are protected by the Uniform & Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) which requires that UOCAVA voters be mailed a ballot 45 days before a federal election, have access to electronic ballots, and have the option to return their mail ballot electronically. Missoula has roughly 600 UOCAVA voters and they have a strong voting presence! UOCAVA is a federal program and a voter may register for this status by completing a Federal Post Card Application. It is through this application that the voter affirms their voting status and can list their voting preference (mail, fax, paper). Having options to vote can ensure the voter receives a ballot and its return to our office. Other country’s mailing systems are questionable and lengthy, therefore by emailing or faxing a ballot adds security and confidence to voting overseas. 

Late Registration Voting Process

Not all states have the option to register to vote after the 30-day deadline before an election. In fact, only ten states and the District of Columbia have a form of late registration in place Montana is one of those ten states!

Thirty-days before an election, there is a deadline to register to vote which is known as “close of voter registration.” In some states, if you miss this deadline, you could potentially miss your opportunity to participate in that election. In Montana, voters are fortunate to have Late and Same Day Voter Registration. The 29^th  day before an election kicks of late registration. Within that 29 day window, voters are able to register to vote, update their information and receive an absentee ballot. An absentee ballot essentially means you’re absent from the polls. Since 1999, Montana voters do not have to list a reason for requesting an absentee ballot. Prior to that, an absentee ballot was only issued if you were out of town or ill and could not make it to your polling place.

Voters who have moved within Missoula County or Montana, changed their last name, are a new registrant, or any other changes in voter information are eligible for late registration. The voter simply provides either a driver’s license number or the last four digits of their social security number for verification. The voter’s information is then entered into the voter database and their information is affirmed by them signing a voter registration card, swearing that all of the provided information is true and correct. The final step is the voter receives voting instructions and a ballot. Late registrants may only deposit their ballot at designated election offices, such as the Missoula County Courthouse or Elections Center, located at the Western Montana Fairgrounds. 

On Election Day, late registration transitions into same day voter registration. The same processes in late registration applies with same day registration. The one difference is that some voters are required to vote a provisional ballot. Voters who move within Missoula County, or from another county must vote provisional to ensure only one vote is counted. This is a safeguard in case a voter cast a ballot in their old precinct, which is rarely found. Provisional ballots are counted the Monday following the election. This provides sufficient time to check the precinct register or previous county of that voter to ensure another ballot was not counted. A voter who is new to the voter database casts a regular ballot on Election Day.

Finally, the 29 days before an election, the Election Office sees very little wait times or lines. However, on Election Day, lines do happen with same day voter registration. The registration process on Election Day can take 10 minutes to 20 minutes, depending on that voter’s situation. Take this time and multiply it by the number of voters who appear, and lines are inevitable. In 2012, the Elections Office experienced 3.5 hour wait times for same day registration. We have changed our processes and procedures to combat wait times. This was proven in November of 2014 with only 30 minute wait times but the possibility of lines still remains. The highest voter turnout for an election is during presidential years. The Missoula County Elections Office is projecting anywhere from 2,000 to 2,500 voters to appear for same day registration in November of 2016. We urge voters to take advantage of the 29 days before an election and not wait until Election Day. We don’t want lines as much as the voter wants to wait in one. As the modified, old saying goes: “vote early and in every election!”

The Life of Your Ballot

1. Type of Election, Filing and Deadlines

• The date the election is held determines the type of ballot to be generated. School, Municipal, Special Election, Federal Primary, Federal General are the types of elections held in Missoula County. 
• The “close of candidate filing” varies from 75 days to 85 days before Election Day, depending on the type of election. In addition, ballot issues must satisfy the petition process or be passed by a governing body 70-75 days prior, depending on the election.
• These deadlines allow the Elections Office to have final language to put on the ballot. This information is entered in a portal for the ballot vendor can create a proof. 

2. Proofing 

• The proofing process can take several days as text on the ballot is cross-checked against the original paperwork. The Elections Office looks at the way the candidate wants their name to appear on the ballot and any resolution or petition paperwork for a ballot issue. 
• For a small election the proofing process can take a day or two. For a federal election, it can take more than a week. For example, in the 2014 June Primary, the Elections Office proofed 75 ballot styles due to both Republican and Democrat ballots. The voter may choose which party ballot they intend to vote, but they cannot vote both.

3. Finalizing

• While the Elections Office proofs ballots, they are simultaneously finalizing printing numbers. Law requires that the Elections Office print a ballot for every active voter. To ensure we do not run out of ballots during an election, we also print a ballot for every inactive voter, plus extra for replacement ballots and new registrants. Missoula County currently has nearly 74,000 voters.

4. Printing

• Once the ballot is finalized and the Election Office has determined how many ballots to print, the ballot goes to a local printer for printing. The printing process can take several days, especially if there is print on the backside of the ballot. It takes a day for the front side to dry before printing on the back.  The printing process is very meticulous and an Elections staff member is present through the whole process. 
• After printing, ballots are delivered to the Elections Center where they can be stored with high security measures. Ballots are then divided into ballots for polling places and ballots being mailed to absentee voters. 

5. Mailing

• Absentee ballots must be mailed 25 days prior to the election. Ballot preparation can start 40 days before the mailing date to ensure our office can successfully mail within the 25 day time-frame. 
• For a large election, the Election Office uses 30 to 40 staff members to prepare ballot packets for mailing. 
• Once ballots are mailed, voters can track their ballot through the process by visiting the Secretary of State My Voter Page. Voters can confirm their mailing address and see the current status of their ballot for federal elections. 

6. Testing

• At least two times before an election, ballots are tested in each voting machine used on Election Day. This ensures accuracy and proper tabulation of the ballot. 

7. Verifying & Accepting

• As absentee ballots are returned in the mail or in person before (and on) Election Day, the signature portion on the absentee packet is verified. The signature on the envelope must match the signature on the voter’s file. An election worker verifies each signature manually.
• Accepted ballots are then reconciled to ensure the physical count matches what has been recorded in the database. 

8. Counting 

• Ballots are not counted before Election Day. Ballots for a federal election can be opened the Monday before a Primary or General to ensure the ballot is flattened, which helps the ballot go through the tabulation machine more efficiently. This also provides the Elections Office a head start on tabulation on Election Day so that we have a large percentage of votes recorded by the close of polls. 
• Ballots cast at a polling place are tabulated through the precinct counting machine, also known as the M100. Each precinct’s results are added to the absentee results for an overall total. This is done after 8 p.m. on election night. 
• After all the ballots are counted, they are stored by their ballot type in boxes. Once sealed, they can only be reopened with a court order, unless a recount or post-election audit is conducted. 

9. Post-Election Audit

• A post-election audit is when the Secretary of State assigns a handful of precincts to be counted by hand. This ensures the hand count number can verify and validate the voting machine results. Post-election audits are only conducted for Federal Primary and General elections.

10. Storage

• After an election, a ballot is stored for two years for a federal election and one year for a local election in our warehouse. After its retention time, the Elections Office submits a request to state and county agencies to destroy the ballot. Once all of the agencies have signed off on a destruction form, the ballots are then taken to the landfill for their final resting place. 

Phyllis Sauter, Missoula County Election Deputy Extraordinaire

Phyllis Sauter is no stranger to Missoula County Elections. Even before she became an Election Deputy 15 years ago, Phyllis was a long-standing Election Judge. Her love of politics and history first drew Phyllis to elections and she has been a strong advocate of the democratic process her entire life.

“I’ve always thought that if people don’t take advantage of voting and don’t show their preferences by voting that we as a country could lose our privileges,” Phyllis said. “I got involved in the early 1990s because I care about our process and don’t want that to happen.”

Although Phyllis’ day-to-day work varies between helping customers and working in the Elections Office warehouse, she is one of the main contributors in the ballot preparation process. She helps to oversee the ballot printing process, distributes ballots to voters, verifies and works through petitions and sets up the equipment for poll elections.

Phyllis Sauter prepping ballots for the November election. 

“I do many different things throughout the election process,” Phyllis said. “What can be the most difficult at times is entering in voter registration information. There can be hundreds of entries, especially before an election, and reading everything on a card can be hard.”

But for Phyllis, all the hard work and stress pays off on Election Day when she sees all the citizens turning out to vote.

“It’s good to know you’re a part of this process and that people are taking advantage of it,” she said.

When Phyllis is not working at the Elections Office she enjoys spending time with her husband of 35 years, Dennis.  She has two sons, Ron and Duane , and a daughter, Kelly. Her two grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, one great-grandchild and five great-grandchildren keep her busy. She also likes reading anything written by James Patterson. 

Missoula Shelter Ordinance

Missoula City-County Animal Control wants to remind residents that as the colder fall weather approaches, pets who live outside must have proper shelter. The ordinance is provided below for reference. If you have questions or concerns, please contact Animal Control at (406) 541-7387 or stop by their facility, located at 6700 Butler Creek Road.

“Shelter/Dog House” means a structure that is moisture proof and windproof of suitable size to accommodate the dog and allow retention of body heat.  It shall be made of durable material with a solid, moisture proof floor or a floor raised at least two inches from the ground. Between November 1 and March 31 the structure must have a windbreak at the entrance.  The structure shall be provided with a sufficient quantity of suitable bedding material consisting of hay, straw, shavings, blankets, or the equivalent, to provide insulation and protection against the cold and dampness and promote retention of body heat."

Sampson wants a warm home this fall and winter. 

Meet Animal Control's Nikki Wood & Sonney White

Missoula City-County Animal Control Shelter Attendant Nikki Wood (left) and Officer Sonney White (right).

The Missoula Animal Control organizational structure can be narrowed into three distinct functions: Shelter Attendants, Officers and Volunteers. Shelter Attendants are those who work at the front desk, help the public obtain dog licenses, answer questions about animals, dispatch officers, plan events and organize outreach efforts. They also, and very importantly, form relationships with the animals at the shelter by learning behaviors and assessing their physical, emotional and medical needs. Officers, on the other hand, are out in the field to investigate cases of neglect and abuse. They are more of Animal Control’s law enforcement agency. Both, however, have the same goal in mind; to either reunite lost animals with their home or to find them a new loving family.

Nikki Wood is one of Animal Control’s Shelter Attendants who has worked with animals throughout her 15 year career. Nikki has a degree in Professional Zoo Keeping and worked at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo in Fresno, California in the mammals division. There she cared for all types of animals, ranging from lemurs, sea lions, wolves, tigers, bears to ant eaters. Nikki loved her time and experiences in California, but  having grown up in Helena,  decided to leave the zoo and come back to Montana to be near her family and friends a few years ago.  Shortly after returning to the Missoula area, Nikki applied for her position with Animal Control and has been happily serving our community ever since.

Having worked with animals for so many years, Nikki has a true passion for her profession.

Nikki Wood and Lebowski. 

“We genuinely care about the animals here. Everything we do is for them, whether it’s fundraising or working with those who have very poor social skills to help them find homes,” Nikki said.

There are many things Nikki enjoys about her work, including her coworkers and interacting with the public, but most of all Nikki says the best part of her job is being able to build trust with an animal so that she can then help find the perfect home.  Similarly, it can be challenging when animals are very aggressive and hard to care for. But once that relationship is built, Nikki says, there is nothing more rewarding.

Animal Control Officer, Sonney White, agrees that nothing is more gratifying in his job than when he is able to help an animal find his/her home. Sonney is a recent addition to the Animal Control office, having spent 11 months in his current position. Before working at Animal Control, Sonney served the Granite County Sheriff’s Office for more than 30 years. During this time, Sonney was the Search and Rescue coordinator, a DARE officer and served six years as Undersheriff. Throughout this tenure, Sonney often worked on Animal Control issues, including licensing, abuse cases and locating strays.

“I retired three years ago from the Granite County Sheriff’s Office so that my wife and I could move into our beautiful home in Stevensville,” Sonney said. “I was working part time as a University of Montana campus officer a year ago and saw that this position with Animal Control was available. I knew Jeff [Darrah, Animal Control’s Director] and thought it would be a good opportunity. I like it here very much.”

Sonney White with his Animal Control Officer vehicle. 

In his role, Sonney patrols parks and other County spaces to ensure owners are compliant with city and county ordinances. Sonney also is in the field investigating cases of neglect and abuse.

“It can be a hard job but it’s all worth it when you know you helped someone find a good home,” Sonney said.

Sonney enjoys helping lost animals find their home or helping them find a home by keeping them safe. Sometimes, Sonney says, it can be very challenging for officers to help educate the public as to why they need to license their dogs and why it is important.

“People sometimes don’t realize that by licensing your dog you are helping to keep your animal safe in case they get lost or if we need to monitor rabies,” Sonney said.

Although their roles may vary, Missoula’s Animal Control staff care very much about the work they do for our community.  If you’re interested in learning more about Animal Control, please visit their website.

Commissioner Curtiss' Sept. 11 Remembrance Ceremony Speech

September 11, 2015, Missoula County Courthouse Lawn, Remembrance Ceremony, Jean Curtiss

Good Afternoon

We are joined here today to remember and honor those who died on September 11, 2001.

·         Those in planes

·         Those in the World Trade Towers

·         Those in the Pentagon

·         Those who responded- including firefighters and people on the street

This blue spruce tree was planted by the Missoula County Employee Council on October 11, 2001 in remembrance and honor of the tragedies on September 11^th.  It is a nice memorial.

I have read the poem titled “One” by Sheryl Sawyer at previous remembrances of this tragic day. It is a powerful poem about how the attacks on September 11, 2001 pulled our nation together.  It ends with ‘We are the Power of One. We are United. We are America.’

We must be cautious not to become One and let fear and prejudice shape our perceptions, opinions and actions.  I think we all came to realize we were more vulnerable than we believed. Our feeling of safety in our own land was violated.  It was easy to get sucked up into the ‘you will get your just due’ whoever you are who attacked us. The United States was quick to engage in a ‘war against terrorism’. We felt justified and called upon to do so.   We sent men and women to war, called them patriots, but did not provide for their safety with adequate armoring of vehicles and vests etc. And we surely have not provided adequately for their return.  Organizations and individuals are always out raising money to provide for returning veterans from this war and previous wars. 22 Veterans take their own life every day. We have to continue to work on this issue.  OK, maybe that should be my Veteran’s Day speech.

Today I would like us to step back and focus on where that attitude of justification can take us, unintentionally. There is a danger of painting all people we associate with the Middle East with the same brush as those responsible for the events of that day. – That brush is colored with fear and hate.  

I found a few quotes I would like to share:

‘There was never a good war or a bad peace.’  Ben Franklin

 ‘There can be no greater motive for evil than a sense of justice.’  Bill Ward

‘The act of war is the last option of a democracy.’  Joseph Wilson, New York Times, July-6-2003

 ‘War may sometimes be a necessary evil. But no matter how necessary, it is always an evil, never a good. We will not learn how to live together in peace by killing each other’s children.’ President Jimmy Carter, Nobel lecture, December-10-2002

So let’s not allow what brought us together and made us One destroy what America is about.  Many have become fearful, suspicious, mistrustful, hateful, accusatory, hypocritical of religious freedom (if it is not the same religion as theirs), and confused about freedom vs rights.

As we go forward from this day, let us go with empathy and compassion and seek to understand. Let us look the person who is struggling with addiction and homelessness in the eye. Let us understand that the veteran who cannot hold a job right now and is self-medicating with alcohol has seen Hell and came home to find we don’t provide the supportive services he or she needs to survive.

September 11, 2001 was a tragic day in our history.  But so was:

 April 19, 1995 (Oklahoma City, 168 dead -19 in a day care; 100’s injured);

April 20, 1999 (Columbine High School, 13 dead; 20+ injured);

August 29, 2005 (Hurricane Katrina, 1833 dead, millions homeless);

April 16, 2007 (Virginia Tech, 32 dead, 17 wounded);

July 20, 2012 (Movie Theater in Aurora, CO, 12 dead, 70 injured);

October 29, 2012 (Hurricane Sandy, 149 dead-7 states and 3 countries);

December 14, 2012 (Sandy Hook Elementary, Newtown, CT, 20 kids, 6 adults and his Mom);

May 6, 2015 (on Brooks Street in Missoula, MT 3 dead, 5 children lost one or both parents);

June 17, 2015  (Charleston, So. Carolina in a church prayer meeting, 9 dead) – Just to name a few.

As the world, currently, watches the giant exodus of people from Syria and other countries who have been engaged in war for a long time, there are those who have responded with fear of inviting the refugees into other countries, including ours.  It is less personal to focus on fighting terrorists, who are like the faces on wanted posters than on the little brothers who washed ashore because their boat capsized. I remember hearing once that we have no idea how hard life is in some of these countries until we think about what it must take for a parent to put their child at risk by placing them in that boat knowing they may not make it to the other shore. 

So let’s call this our Tree of Hope and use it to remind us that people all around us are facing a crisis.  It may not be in the news for weeks. It may not be in the news at all but it is still a crisis for them.  So we remember those who lost their lives and those who lost loved ones on September 11^th. But, as you add a ribbon to the tree today, I ask you to also think about honoring someone going through a crisis today.  Maybe you know them, maybe you don’t but let’s honor them, too.

Let us be Powerful. Let us be United. Let us be America. And let us make a difference in people’s lives.

Go and show compassion and spread Hope. I wish you Peace.

Clerk of District Court, Shirley Faust, singing the National Anthem 

Commissioner Jean Curtiss and Senator Tester's Representative Deborah Fransden. 

Staff and members of the public placing remembrance ribbons on the Blue Spruce in front of the Courthouse. 

Dogs Off Leash Ordinance

With the beginning of September comes the beginning of a new academic year. Fall is a wonderful time to go enjoy the cooler weather with your pets. It is also during this time that Missoula Animal Control sees an influx of dogs on campus, which is not a leash free area. Many students have dogs (how can we blame them!) and we would like to remind everyone of the rules.

If you’re taking your dog for a walk on the University of Montana’s campus, remember that they must be on leash, even when hiking Mount Sentinel to the M. While in class, or for any other reason, dogs cannot be tied up and left unattended anywhere on campus.

As a reminder, all dogs within Missoula County must be licensed. Students who may be attending the University from out of state but who own a dog should know that their dog is considered a Missoula resident and must be licensed within Missoula County.

All licenses can be obtained at the Missoula Animal Control facility, located at 6700 Butler Creek Road, or at the Missoula County Motor Vehicle/Treasurer’s Office within the Courthouse.

Ordinance text is copied below. Please don’t hesitate to let our shelter attendants know if you have any questions!

6.07.600  Dogs at large or off leash. 

A.  It is unlawful for the owner, custodian or keeper of a dog to knowingly, purposely or by neglect allow the dog to be at large or off leash unless:

1.     the dog is located in a vehicle with the permission of the vehicle’s owner. 

2.     the dog is actually participating in dog shows or instructional dog obedience training classes. A dog may be temporarily off of a leash for these purposes as long as the dog’s owner or custodian is personally present and able to effectively control the dog at all times. 

3.     Any dog under actual voice restraint in a Designated Voice Restraint Area, subject to the conditions established in 6.07.618, shall not be deemed off leash or at large.

B.  Tying a dog to an object such as a light pole, parking meter, bicycle rack, tree, or other object, etc. while the dog is on public property, or on private property without the permission of the property owner or occupant and leaving the dog unattended is considered to be a dog at large and is a violation of this section.

C.  An animal control officer may return a licensed dog to the custody of its owner in lieu of impoundment; however all at large dogs are subject to immediate impoundment.

(Ord. 3472, 2011)

6.07.605  Leash length.  An owner, keeper, or custodian of a dog must maintain a dog on a leash with no more than 6 feet of the leash’s length being utilized with the following exceptions:

A.  a retractable leash extending a maximum of sixteen (16) feet is allowed in open areas away from streets, alleys, or sidewalks.  

B.  an obedience trained dog shall be allowed to participate in obedience training, field trials, dog shows or competition.

An owner, keeper or custodian violates this section if the length of the leash violates the provisions specified herein.

(Ord. 3472, 2011)

The Western Montana Fair: An Enterprise-Wide Event

As you've seen throughout the month of August, an exceptional amount of work and year-long (if not years-long) planning goes into making the Western Montana Fair a success. Our Fairgrounds Director, Todd Garrett, and his senior staff, including Tracy Mullennix and Pirrie Harris, work with vendors, community groups, nonprofit organizations, contractors, rodeo personnel and countless others to organize the many diverse facets of the Fair. While the event itself may only span one week of the calendar year, it requires continual efforts to ensure that week is enjoyable for all who visit and participate in the Western Montana Fair.

Dedicated Western Montana Fair and Events Center staff are knowledgeable, courteous and put in enumerable hours of work finalizing contracts, setting up the grounds, organization groups and training/coordinating volunteers. They are the face of the Fair. However, there is no way they could possibly do their job without the assistance of other Missoula County departments along the way.

While walking the grounds, you  likely noticed that some buildings have been moved and/or renovated. The grounds were clean and well maintained. The Fair Office was air conditioned. Fences were repaired and buildings were painted. This work didn't happen overnight. Our Facilities Management staff have been working nearly around the clock all year to improve the grounds for public and staff use. They worked to ensure the office was ADA accessible and included an entrance and exit to better accommodate the flow of foot traffic in and out of the building.

They also had decided staff on the grounds throughout Fair week to manage all other miscellaneous tasks: ranging from post-storm set-up of tents, to air conditioning/cooler maintenance, to maintaining working bathroom facilities for public use. They worked with waste disposal vendors to ensure garbage was collected frequently. Staff has continued working at the Fairgrounds post-event to clean all buildings and public areas and to make improvements to the grounds for the many functions that occur each and every week.

In addition to Facilities Management staff, the Missoula City-County Health Department plays a tremendous role in keeping public health and safety the top priority. Environmental Health inspectors work with each and every vendor to ensure food is being prepared, cleaned, stored and served safely. They provide training to vendors and those handling food to share their expertise in food safety. The Health Department continually performs checks throughout the week to sustain high standards. Health staff also share their findings with other Missoula County staff and keep the media informed of their findings and processes.

Because the public's health and safety are our top priorities, the role of the Missoula County Sheriff's Office and the City of Missoula Police are invaluable. Not only do these agencies provide security to the public, staff and the grounds, they keep a watchful eye on conditions. Missoula County was experiencing storms on Monday of the Fair. Along with the Missoula County Office of Emergency Management staff, officials were working together to gauge the constantly shifting conditions to keep those in attendance safe. Emergency evacuation plans were reviewed by all and shared with senior staff had an emergent situation arose. Thankfully, despite some unfavorable weather days and a strong storm, no one - including animals were harmed.

The need to share important updates, such as pending  weather or evacuation protocols, is immediate and crucial during Fair week. Communications channels have to be working properly for staff to best serve the public. Our Technology department added WiFi, additional computers and phone lines. They were also at the ready in case any of these vehicles were not working properly.

The Auditor's Office processes all payroll and payments. The County Attorney's Office reviews contracts. The Commissioners visit the grounds seeking feedback from the public, vendors and staff to identify ways we can always be improving. Communications staff help to answer inquiry and disseminate timely information. Staff volunteer to work the ticket booth or in the parking lot.

It takes a tremendous County-wide effort to put on the Fair. We have an incredible staff, spanning all departments, who pitch in where and how they can to provide a service to their community. We hope you enjoyed the 2015 Western Montana Fair!

Susie Edwards-Miller

Susie Edwards-Miller

Title: Senior Secretary

Years at the Fair: 4 or 5

What will you remember most from the 2015 Western Montana Fair?: I was able to organize the Free Stage and enjoyed that process.

What do you like best about your role at the Fair?: “My kids are in 4H and I really enjoy being able to see them participate.”

Commissioners Impose Stage II Fire Restrictions

Missoula County Commissioners voted today (Aug. 27, 2015)  to impose Stage II Fire Restrictions in Missoula County, effective 12:01 a.m. Friday, Aug. 28, 2015. Stage II Restrictions include all Stage I restrictions, including extending the perpetual prohibition of fireworks from County parks, Forest Service and State lands to private lands within the county, as well as placing additional restrictions within the county.

The following acts are prohibited until further notice: building maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire; smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.

The following acts are prohibited from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m.: operating any internal combustion engine; welding, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame; using an explosive; operating motorized vehicles off designated roads and trails; and all fireworks.

Individuals can be fined up to $5,000 or $10,000 for an organization and imprisoned for up to six months for violating restrictions and closures. Individuals can be held liable for all suppression costs and damages if they are responsible for starting a fire.

Stage II Restrictions have nine exemptions, including exempting those who have written permits and emergency repair of public utilities and railroads.

This move comes on the heels of the Missoula County Fire Protection Association’s determination that fire danger in Missoula County is Extreme. That determination is in consultation with all local fire agencies, land management agencies and local government and is based on information related to weather, fuels, and current and expected conditions.

Stage II Restrictions 

Resolution, Page 1

Resolution, Page 2

Marissa McClintock: Western Montana Fair's Seasonal Senior Secretary

Marissa McClintock

Title: Seasonal Senior Secretary

Years at the Fair: 2

How did you become involved?: “I was looking for summer job after my first year of student teaching. A family friend, Patty Baumgart [Missoula County's HR Director], said she would look to see what was available at the County. This was that opening.”

What will you remember most from the 2015 Western Montana Fair?: “We always pull together and make whatever it is work.”

What do you like best about your role at the Fair?: “The people. Everyone is very nice and brings their own unique talents.”

Tracy Mullenix: The Fairgrounds' Amazing Administrative Aide

Tracy Mullennix

Title: Fair Administrative Aide

Years at the Fair: 1

How did you become involved?: “I have lived in Missoula for 15 years and always came to the Fair with my kids. I was working at the Count Attorney’s office  and saw that this position was available. I have a degree in Parks and Recreation. This job more closely aligns with that and with my passions. My experience in recreational planning has served me very well in this role.”

What will you remember most from the 2015 Western Montana Fair?: “As a staff, we have really grown together and have the ability to laugh and be helpful and provide as much service to the public as possible.”

What do you like best about your role at the Fair? “Teamwork. I am able to put my passions into what I’m working on and have great people around to support all our efforts.”

Tracy Mullennix

Meet Fairgrounds Support Services Manager, Pirrie Harris

Pirrie Harris

Title: Support Services Manager

Years at the Fair: 3

How did you become involved?: “I started here in an occasional laborer position working outside picking up the garbage and maintaining the grounds during the week of the Fair. The next year I was promoted to work in the office and have been in my current role for the past year.”

What will you remember most from the 2015 Western Montana Fair?: “This is the 100^th anniversary of the rodeo. I was able to design the buckles which is something I will never forget.”

What do you like best about your role at the Fair? “I love working with the people I work with. We all work well together and we bring this event together well. I like the opportunity to be able to see how all our efforts pay off once the Fair does kick off.”

Time-Lapse Video: Carnival Set Up and the Storm

We had a large storm Monday evening with wind gusts recorded at hurricane strength. We were also in the process of getting carnival vendors set up for the Fair. Check out this time-lapse video to see just how intense the storm was and just how much work goes into Fair preparations. Aside from one tree, no one, including animals, were injured in the storm!

 

What You Need to Know for the 2015 Fair

Excitement is building for the Western Montana Fair which kicks off on Wednesday, Aug. 12! Whether you’ve been attending for years, or are going for the first time, we want to make sure you have all the information you need to make 2015 the best year yet! Read more to find out about hours, ticketing, prices, events and other important links to check out. Let us know you have any questions. We look forward to seeing you soon!

 When is the Western Montana Fair?

• The Western Montana Fair is scheduled for August 11-16, 2015.

Where is the Fair?

• The fairgrounds are located on the corner of Russell Street and South Avenue in Missoula. Some buildings have moved as part of our renovations. Check out this updated map. 

 What time does the Fair open?

• Gates are open to the public from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• A gate ticket, 4-H/FFA wristband, season pass or ID badge is required for admittance at all hours, including prior to the 11 a.m. opening.

How much is admission?

• Adult (16+): $6.00
• Student (6-15): $3.00
• Ages 5 and Under: Free
• Senior Citizen (55+): $4.00
• Military (with ID): Free
• Family Pass (2 adults, 3 students): $15
• Daily Gate ticketing information can also be found on our website.

Where can I park?

• Check out our map. Parking is available around the outside of the grounds and nearby offered by outside businesses for a cost. Please note, many of these organizations are not affiliated with the fair. Be sure to park only in designated areas. Please be considerate of our neighbors! 

What events will be going on?

•  The Fair is a grand tradition offering the best of an eleven county region in agriculture, education, history, and family entertainment while showcasing new technology and science.  This six day event features 4-H Exhibits and livestock, carnival rides, night shows, free daily entertainment, commercial displays, great food vendors, a Demolition Derby, Professional Bull Riding and the Missoula Stampede PRCA Rodeo.  Come and see Western Montana’s best floriculture event consisting of five distinctly different shows.  Fine Arts, Photography, Home Arts and Culinary displays can be found throughout the fairgrounds.

How many people go to the Fair?

• We typically host more than 60,000 participants.

Who will be performing at the Fair?

• Tyler Barham will be out Friday night Stampede Stage Entertainer. 

Where do I buy event tickets for night shows?

•  Night show event tickets purchased in advance include gate admission.
• Day-of-show purchasers must purchase a gate ticket and purchase their event ticket at the Fair Office after entering.  There will be a Will Call list at each gate; one person from the group may enter to obtain tickets that were purchased in advance from the Fairgrounds Office, then exit and distribute to rest of party.
• Youth – ages 5-15;   Lap children (4 and under) – Free;   Adult – ages 16+.
•  You can buy tickets online here.

When is the rodeo? Does it have an additional cost?

• Tuesday: Missoula Ranch Rodeo - Reserved seating for $10
• Wednesday: Bitterroot Motors Bullorama
• Thursday: Missoula Stampede Ram Rodeo
• Friday: Missoula Stampede Ram Rodeo
• Saturday: Missoula Stampede Ram Rodeo - Reserved seating and general admission Wednesday - Saturday
• $16 adult; $12 youth; $12 open bleacher

Is there an events schedule?

• Yes! You can find the schedule on our website.

 How much do event tickets cost?

• Tuesday Missoula Ranch Rodeo on  Aug. 11 at 7 p.m.
•  Reserved seating: $10
• Wednesday Bitterroot Motors Bullorama on Aug. 12 at 7 p.m.
• Reserved seating and general admission
• $16 adult; $12 youth; $12 open bleacher
•  Thursday Missoula Stampede Ram Rodeo on Aug. 13 at 7 p.m.
• Reserved seating and general admission
• $16 adult; $12 youth; $12 open bleacher
•  Friday Missoula Stampede Ram Rodeo on Aug. 14 at 7 p.m.
• Reserved seating and general admission
•  $16 adult; $12 youth; $12 open bleacher
•  Saturday Missoula Stampede Ram Rodeo on Aug. 15 at 7 p.m.
• Reserved seating and general admission
• $16 adult; $12 youth; $12 open bleacher
• Napa Demolition Derby on Sunday, Aug. 16 at 4:30 p.m.
• All reserved seating
•  $16 adult/youth

 Which days have free admission?

• Wednesday through Saturday from 11am – 1pm gate admission FREE
• Tuesday: Gates open at 5pm – Free Gate Admission. Bring a Canned food donation for the Missoula Food Bank and get Free Gate admission.
• Wednesday: “Seniors’ Day” – Seniors (55+) gate admission Free.
• Thursday: “KPAX Kids’ Day” – Ages 6-17 enter Free until 6 p.m.
• Sunday: “KECI Family Day” – Free gate admission for everyone

How much do carnival rides cost?

• One day and week-long passes are available for advanced sale until Tuesday, Aug. 11 at 3 p.m. at the Fairgrounds Office and Noon’s.
• One Day Pass: $20
• Unlimited rides for one day; you choose which day!
• All Week Pass: $80
•  Unlimited rides all week long!

What are the carnival hours of operation?

• Tuesday, August 11: closed
• Wednesday, August 12: 12pm – close
• Thursday, August 13: 12pm – close
• Friday, August 14: 12pm – close
• Saturday, August 15: 11am – close
• Sunday, August 16: 12pm – close

Who can I call if I have questions?

• Our Fair Office is open from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Call us at (406) 721-3247

How can I stay updated?

• Check out our Facebook page. Also follow Missoula County on Facebook and Twitter for news and information. Share your experiences with us using #MslaCoFair!