City Club Missoula

The Evolving Structure and Science of Wildfire Management and What it Means to Our Community.

Affordable housing, wages and a balanced approach between conservation and economic development stood among the top issues broached by Missoula’s institutional leaders at the annual state of the community address on Monday.

Missoula City Mayor John Engen, Missoula County Commission Chair David Strohmaier and University of Montana President Seth Bodnar examine how the city, county and university contribute culturally and economically within Missoula’s diverse ecosystem.

The district is trying to keep the proceeds of the bonds going to local companies as much as possible, Thane said. Of the first 31 different professional firms hired for bond projects (including architects, contractors and the like), 26 had an office in Missoula.

MCPS Superintendent Mark Thane, Business Manager Pat McHugh, and Elise Guest will walk us through how the bond dollars are being spent, how state and federal budget cuts will impact MCPS’s budget, and in turn, the potential impact of those cuts on local property tax bills.

The City Club forum includes a chance for participants to ask the presenter questions and, in response to an audience member’s question, Bodnar offered comments on the surprises he found at UM.

In his presentation to City Club, Bodnar will provide insights on his brief time thus far in the presidency, the thematic priorities shaping his vision for the University of Montana, and how a UM education prepares students for success in a complex and changing world.

Interesting discussion with the new University of Montana President Seth Bodnar

"City Club offers a venue for our citizens to learn about and discuss issues that affect our city and state. Our monthly forums give community members the opportunity to become educated on a variety of issues and further engage in the growth and well-being of our community." Heidi Starrett, Vice Chair, City Club Missoula

Adopted in 2011, the plan has helped the city move from the old way of doing business to something that now resembles a coordinated, citywide approach.