Another Big Project Proposed for Flathead Lake

A major waterfront development in Bigfork Bay is on hold as local officials look more closely at its environmental impact.

According to a report by the Flathead Beacon, Polson-based developer Michael Maddy has proposed a ninety-seven-slip marina featuring floating docks, a public swimming area, and a boardwalk where the Swan River meets Flathead Lake.

However, the project faces jurisdictional and environmental scrutiny. The Flathead Conservation District recently tabled the permit application, citing a need for critical geotechnical data and a hydrologic report.

Resource Conservationist Samantha Tappenbeck told the Beacon that the area's unique river currents and lake backflows make it a highly complex project.

     Developers have until July sixth to submit the required studies before a special meeting is scheduled for public comment.

Income tax key to Montana operations

A new report highlights how much Montana relies on individual income taxes to fund state operations, peaking at a record high during the pandemic.

According to the Legislative Fiscal Division's Chart of the Week, individual income taxes have accounted for an increasing share of the state's general fund over the last two decades, rising from 45% in fiscal year 2006 to a peak of 64% in 2022. During the height of the pandemic, income tax revenues grew substantially, jumping from 1.4 billion dollars in 2020 to 2.4 billion dollars in 2022. Fiscal analysts note that collections have since dipped slightly, due in part to tax rate cuts passed by the state legislature. In fiscal year 2025, the state collected 2.3 billion dollars, which represented 58% of Montana's total general revenues.

Dennis Bragg photo

Governor's mansion donation approved

Montana officials are already looking ahead to the next legislative session after a gift to the state's executive housing.

On Monday, the Montana Land Board officially accepted the donation of the historic, five-million-dollar Hauser Mansion in Helena from Governor Greg Gianforte and First Lady Susan Gianforte.

      The twenty-nine-room Victorian estate will serve as the future official residence for Montana governors.

According to a report by the Daily Montanan, the state must now secure ongoing funding from future legislatures to maintain the massive property, which already requires an estimated two million dollars in immediate upgrades. Meanwhile, a decision on what to do with the current vacant governor’s residence on Carson Street—which needs $4.5 million in repairs—is expected within the next four weeks.