Columbia Falls City Council members voted to approve four separate actions covering sidewalks, state infrastructure grant contracts, emergency medical services funding and wastewater treatment financing.

The council approved a tri-party agreement that allows completion of sidewalk work along West Crossing and Hill Avenue, a contract arrangement with the Montana Department of Transportation and BNSF Railway to permit installation of flashing lights and transfer of right-of-way to the city following construction. Council moved and seconded the item and approved it by voice vote; the motion passed.

Council also authorized entering the state-local infrastructure partnership contract with the Montana Department of Commerce, a program the council said is based on House Bill 355 (2023). City staff described the program as allowing state grants to be matched with local cash at a 75%/25% grant-to-local ratio. The council approved authorization for the city manager to execute the contract by roll call: Councilor Lowery, Councilor Price, Councilor Piven, Councilor Robinson, Councilor King and Mayor Bonner all voted “aye.”

The council approved an annual memorandum of understanding for emergency medical services to participate in Flathead County’s quick response units. The memorandum authorizes the city to receive twice-yearly payments of $1,750 (total $3,500 annually) from the county EMS levy for readiness and response; last year the city received $5,381 in response payments, staff said. The council moved, seconded and approved the MOU.

Finally, the council approved a financing package to modernize the wastewater treatment plant. Staff described use of state and federal funds administered under Clean Water Act programs, together with two loan/bond series: one series at zero percent interest if compliance is maintained and a 2025 series at 2.5% interest for 20 years. The council approved the resolution authorizing those financing steps by voice vote.

The council did not debate substantial changes to any motion during the meeting. City staff will proceed with contract execution and grant/loan finalization as described to the council.