The Gallatin County Budget Meeting on June 6, 2025, focused on critical discussions regarding environmental conservation and housing support initiatives. Key presentations highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to address wildlife conservation and the growing housing crisis in the region.

One significant topic was the proposal for a comprehensive wildlife conservation plan. Experts emphasized the importance of uniting engineers, planners, and biologists to develop strategies that enhance local and regional conservation efforts. Proposed measures included relatively low-cost solutions such as adding fencing and enlarging culverts to facilitate safe wildlife crossings, particularly for species like deer and black bears. More extensive projects, such as wildlife overpasses, were also discussed, with officials noting that these initiatives require long-term planning and investment.

Another major focus of the meeting was the request from Family Promise, a local nonprofit organization, for $60,000 in county support to expand its family housing continuum. The executive director, Crystal, reported a staggering increase in demand for their services, with over 391 families supported last year—a 1000% rise since early 2019. She highlighted the urgent need for housing assistance in Gallatin County, where costs are significantly higher than the national average. The average monthly rent exceeds $2,300, while the families served typically earn around $2,400 monthly, leaving them with minimal funds for other essential expenses.

Family Promise aims to prevent homelessness through a trauma-informed approach, providing a full range of services from prevention to stabilization. The organization plans to extend its efforts into rural areas, such as West Yellowstone and Big Sky, where resources are limited but the need is increasing. Crystal emphasized that investing in prevention is not only fiscally responsible but also less traumatic for children, costing significantly less than emergency shelter solutions.

The meeting concluded with a call for questions, indicating a collaborative spirit among the commissioners and community leaders as they consider the implications of these proposals for the future of Gallatin County. The discussions underscored the pressing need for both environmental and social support initiatives in the region.