Saying new development must fund the services it requires, the Missoula City Council on Monday agreed to increase impact fees by roughly 10%, though three conservatives opposed the measure, saying crime rates and fires were less in newer neighborhoods, therefore reducing the need for additional services.

The fees represent one-time payments placed upon new development. They’re used to fund capital improvements when growth takes place. They provide a mechanism to fund new infrastructure without raising taxes on other residents living elsewhere in the city.

By Martin Kidston