2021 City Ballot Information

The Livingston City Commission has voted to ask residents to vote on two different ballot resolutions appearing on the November 2, 2021 ballot.

SELF-GOVERNING, CHARTER FORM OF GOVERNMENT

• Montana Constitution requires a local government will undertake a review to study each local government, once every ten years.
• Previous study commission also recommended the local government change to a self-governing Charter form of government.
• No changes to restrictions on City Powers
• City Commission remains the legislative policy-making body of the City.
• City Manager remains the chief executive/administrative officer.
• City Commission has more authority to take action on matters not defined specifically in state statute.
• Charter goes in to effect July 1, 2022.
• During transition period, no current City employee will lose employment solely because of adoption of the charter.
• Read the Resolution and recommended Charter here

Community General Obligation Bond for construction of  Separated Grade Rail Crossings

• Discussion regarding the need for an additional railroad crossing began in March of 1977, click here for brief history of this project.
• in 2018 the City Commission delayed putting issue on ballot, wanting more public comment and community meetings and outcome of Growth Policy.
• in 2019 the City conducted several public meetings to gauge public interest and desires
• In 2020 in person community meetings continued and the City conducted a Facebook Live event. City learned Granted Forgiveness of the US DOT million dollar grant
• In 2021 the updated Growth Policy was passed, in July of 2021 the City Commission it is necessary and desirable to submit to the voters of the City the question of the issuance of the bond to fund the Railroad Crossing project, no to exceed $20 Million dollars for a term of 20 years.
• Bond counsel advised project location does not have to be determined to issue bonds
• Project will cover engineering, water/street/sewer improvements, right of way acquisitions and construction
• Rates are still low, good time to borrow.
• Read the Resolution here