Missoula, MT – Concerns surrounding the Grant Creek Crossing development project have sparked debate within the community, as local fire and school officials voice their opposition to the approval of an 86-acre economic development district near North Reserve Street. Despite these concerns, Missoula County Commissioners approved the project, which will be funded through tax increment financing (TIF), a mechanism that diverts property tax revenue from local services to infrastructure improvements.
The development, known as a Targeted Economic Development District (TEDD), will use the tax revenue generated from the area to finance roads, utilities, and other infrastructure, but does not allocate funds for essential services like fire protection or public education. This has raised alarms among local fire officials, who worry that the Missoula Rural Fire District will struggle to meet the increased demand for service without additional revenue.
Chief Paul Finlay of the Missoula Rural Fire District expressed his concerns at a recent public meeting. He highlighted the potential risks posed by the development, stating that it could “reduce our values while increasing our workload,” which would result in an unsustainable situation for the district. Finlay warned that the fire department might not be able to provide adequate service in the area once the development is complete.
In response, Missoula County Commissioners addressed these concerns during their meeting on November 14. They referenced a letter from Missoula Fire Chief Gordy Hughes, who assured them that Fire Station Number 4 would cover the area once developed. Additionally, a new Fire Station 6, planned for construction, would further assist in response efforts. However, fire district officials remain skeptical that these measures will be enough to address the increased demand for fire protection.
The development’s impact on local schools has also been a topic of concern. Dr. Molly Blakely, Superintendent of Hellgate Elementary School, raised concerns about the effect the project will have on the district’s funding. While the commissioners decided to reduce the number of voted levies, which help fund school operations, Blakely noted that the district would still face challenges, particularly with transportation and tuition costs. “Having those permissive levies for tuition and transportation, although it’ll only be, you know, roughly 25%, at least that’s something for the school district,” she explained.
The issue was further discussed at a public meeting held by the citizen-led Reserve Street Public Working Group on November 22. The group, which formed to address the implications of the development, has expressed ongoing concerns about the potential strain on both fire and school services as the project moves forward.
While the county commissioners have approved the development and promised that infrastructure improvements will be made, many community members remain uncertain about the long-term impact on public safety and education. As the project progresses, residents and local officials alike will be closely watching its effect on Missoula’s resources.
