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- Paid Subscription And Signing Into The Website
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- Zoning Commission Meeting
1 25 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana Tuesday, March 25th, 2025 at 7:00 P.M. ZONING COMMISSION Regular Meeting Agenda 1. Call To Order 2. Review and Approval of Minutes a. March 11th, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes b. March 18th, 2025 Public Hearing – Zoning for Brundage Garage Minor Subdivision c. March 18th, 2025 Public Hearing – Title 17.104 d. March 18th, 2025 Special Meeting Minutes 3. Director of Operations Report 4. Applications for Zoning Compliance Certificates for Review: 2025-009 126/132 Harrington Ave CHH Investments/Benson L&L Townhouse 5. Discuss/Recommend Findings of Fact on Zoning for Brundage Garage Minor Subdivision 6. Discuss/Recommend Changes to Title 17.104 7. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the Zoning Commission. 8. Adjournment PLEASE NOTE : A Zoom link is available. Join the meeting with Zoom ID: 770-316-6528, allowing permission for mic and camera (if using a computer go to https://zoom.us/j/7703166528 ) and use Passcode 4245 . z oning Commission Members: Justin Rooley (Chair), Mike Watson, Russ Schwandt, Anneliese Ripley
- Bulldogs Shine At Yellowjackets/Battlin’ Bears Open With PRs And Event Wins
University of Montana Western Press Release BILLINGS, Mont. – The Montana Western track and field team was back in action this weekend at the Yellowjackets/Battlin' Bears Open, where several Bulldogs notched personal records and strong finishes. Gracie Yakos set a new PR in the 100m hurdles, clocking in at 17.53. Erick Piazzola also had a strong performance, recording PRs in both the 100m (12.46) and the 200m (25.04). In the women's 1500m, Olivia Steadman placed second with a time of 5:16.66. Justene Santi followed with a time of 5:56.29, while Olivia Canney crossed the line at 6:16.67, and Kylee Wyatt finished in 7:10.37. On the men's side, Bridger Wheeler completed the 1500m in 5:06.90. Steadman continued her strong day in the 800m, securing another second-place finish with a time of 2:36.80. Canney followed with a time of 2:57.05. In the men's 800m, Brody Henry took first place with a time of 2:03.96, while teammate Drake Delude finished second at 2:08.85. Wheeler rounded out the event with a time of 2:23.79. Santi also competed in the 400m hurdles, finishing with a time of 1:25.24. In the women's 5000m, Ruby Smith completed the race in 21:29.39. The men's 5000m saw Harrison Silverio claim victory in his first outdoor meet, finishing with a time of 16:22.46. Teammates Noah Rovente (18:01.52) and Kreg Butler (18:14.64) each set new PRs. In relay action, the team of Delude, Piazzola, Wheeler, and Henry competed in the 4x400m, clocking a time of 3:58.65. The Bulldogs also found success in the field events. Three PRs were recorded in the women's discus— Braden Kopp placed sixth with a throw of 28.98m, Sarah Clark threw 23.66m, and Ellie Stutsman recorded a mark of 20.16m. On the men's side, Layne Cooney won the discus event with a season-best throw of 41.65m. Carson Bain finished seventh at 35.27m, followed by Tad Tackes (33.10m), Landon Darsow (PR - 32.75m), and Justin Maier (PR - 28.64m). Stutsman also competed in the shot put, recording a throw of 9.32m. Cooney built on his first-place finish in the discus with a runner-up performance in the shot put, setting a PR at 13.85m. Darsow and Bain each threw 11.32m, while DJ Jackson recorded a PR at 10.70m. Maier (9.98m) and Tackes (9.63m) rounded out the event. In the jumps, Wade Dahood made his season debut in the outdoor long jump, finishing sixth in a crowded field with a PR of 5.96m. History was made in the javelin event as Sarah Clark became the first Bulldog to compete in over 20 years, finishing seventh with a throw of 30.02m. Up Next – The Bulldogs return to action as they head to Missoula for the Al Manuel Invite this coming Friday and Saturday.
- Dillon Elementary School District Seeks Voter Approval For $200,000 Technology Levy
DILLON, MT – The Dillon Elementary School District #10 is seeking voter approval for a $200,000 technology levy aimed at maintaining and updating critical educational technology. The proposed levy includes a $150,000 increase to the district's current $50,000 annual technology fund, which is essential for supporting student and staff safety, purchasing learning software, updating communication tools, and maintaining instructional devices. If approved, the levy would result in a slight increase in property taxes—approximately $8.01 per year for a home valued at $100,000, $24.02 for a $300,000 home , and $48.03 for a $600,000 home . This funding would be set for 10 years , providing stable support for necessary educational technology needs. Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, the district has faced a surge in technology-related expenses, including the demand for more devices, enhanced security, and additional software licenses. Despite these growing needs, the district has not requested additional funding for technology since 2002. The new levy aims to help the district keep pace with technological advancements that have become essential for modern education. Superintendent Randy Shipman emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility in managing resources. "We are committed to ensuring that every dollar spent is used effectively to enhance our students' educational experiences. This levy is a necessary step to provide our students with the tools they need to succeed," said Shipman. "We realize taxes are high, but our technology needs are around $325,000 per year, and we’ve had a $50,000 levy since 2002. Given the current challenges with funding, we are requesting only a portion of the necessary amount and not the full cost of our technology needs. We will cover the remainder through the general fund." Currently, Dillon Elementary School District spends 14.7% less per pupil compared to the Montana state average. In the 2022-2023 school year, the district spent $11,388 per student , while the state average was $13,346 . For the 2023-2024 school year, approximately 23% of the district's revenue came from local property taxes, significantly lower than the state average of 28.32% . Principal Greg Fitzgerald highlighted the role of technology in enhancing student engagement. "Technology has transformed the way we teach and learn. Investing in technology is investing in our students' futures," Fitzgerald noted. "While we have made improvements, there’s still a continual need to maintain and enhance our resources." Chad Herman , the Technology Director, underscored the rising need for cybersecurity, stating, "Protecting student and staff data from cyber threats is crucial. This ongoing expense underscores the importance of investing in robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard our community." To provide information about the levy and address community questions, the district has formed a Technology Levy Task Force , which includes Superintendent Shipman, Principal Fitzgerald, Middle School Principal Joel Rogers , District Clerk Kasey Swisher , educators, trustees, and community members. The task force has engaged with various groups throughout the community and will continue to meet to discuss the levy request. Community member Cory Creighton emphasized the importance of investing in education. "Supporting this levy is about investing in our kids' future. Good schools benefit the community as a whole," Creighton stated. Former Montana state legislator Tom Welch expressed his strong support for the technology levy. "This funding will ensure our students and educators have access to top-notch educational tools. I urge everyone to vote YES for the School District #10 technology levy," Welch added. The School District #10 Board of Trustees has approved the technology levy request during their September 2024 meeting. Community members are urged to participate in the upcoming vote on May 6th to ensure that students have access to essential educational resources. For more information on the levy, visit www.dillonschools.org/page/2025-technology-levy or attend the final Elementary Technology Levy Information Meeting on April 10th at 7:00 PM in the District Conference Room at 22 North Cottom Drive .
- Beaverhead County Varsity Beavers Dominates East Helena Vigilantes, 12-1
DILLON, MT – The Beaverhead County Varsity Beavers had an impressive showing on Friday, defeating the East Helena Varsity Vigilantes 12-1 in a commanding performance. The Beavers took control of the game early in the top of the second inning. After Jase Alvarez singled to score one run and an error allowed another run to cross the plate, Sawyer Tackett added a single that brought in two more runs, establishing a strong lead. Continuing their offensive momentum, the Beavers added four more runs in the top of the third inning. Cohen Hartman hit a solo home run to left field, followed by Kanin Englehardt doubling to score two runs. Tackett capped off the inning with a triple, bringing in another run. On the mound, Tackett earned the win for the Beavers, delivering an outstanding performance over four innings. He allowed only two hits and no runs, while striking out one and walking one. In contrast, Killian Snarr took the loss for the Vigilantes, pitching three innings and allowing eight runs (four earned) on six hits, while striking out four and walking two. Englehardt made an appearance in relief for the Beavers. Both Alvarez and Tackett collected two hits for Beaverhead County, with Englehardt and Tackett driving in three runs each. Marcus Lagunas led the team with three walks, contributing to the Beavers’ patience at the plate as they accumulated a total of seven walks during the game. Additionally, Trenton Moreni and Tackett each stole multiple bases, contributing to the team’s impressive tally of five stolen bases. For East Helena, Kai Richey and Kash Walker each managed to collect one hit in the contest. The Beaverhead County Varsity Beavers will welcome the Belgrade Varsity Panthers for their next game on Tuesday, aiming to continue their successful run.
- Dillon Beavers Softball Team Shines In Season Opener
EAST HELENA, MT – The Dillon Beavers showcased exciting performances in their game today against East Helena, taking a 19 to 2 win. Highlights from the Game: Tyler Gibson made a notable impact early on, hitting a deep 3-run home run in the first inning, defying strong winds that challenged both teams. He finished the game with a solid 1-for-1 at the plate, contributing 2 runs and 3 RBIs in just 2 plate appearances. Adyson Creighton had an impressive outing as well, going 3-for-4 with a highlighted triple, scoring 2 runs, and securing 2 RBIs. Creighton also started on the mound, delivering a stellar performance in 3.0 innings pitched. She allowed no hits or runs while striking out an impressive 6 batters. In relief, Tymber Barnes followed with 2.0 innings, giving up only 1 hit and achieving 3 strikeouts. The Beavers were able to utilize their deep bench for this first game of the season, providing valuable experience for players and insights for areas of improvement. With a break ahead, the team looks forward to their next matchup on April 3 against Butte Central , followed by their first home game on April 11 versus Frenchtown .
- Montana MaxPreps Name Carter Curnow And Kyler Engellant Players Of The Year
DILLON, MT – Two standout Dillon Beavers have been honored as the Montana MaxPreps Players of the Year: seniors Carter Curnow and Kyler Engellant. The talented duo played pivotal roles in leading the Dillon Beavers to their second consecutive Class A State Championship. Their impressive performances throughout the season garnered them this well-deserved recognition. Engellant averaged an outstanding 19.7 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game, showcasing his all-around skills. Curnow also had a stellar season, averaging 15.6 points, 6 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 2.3 steals per game. In the state championship game against Lockwood, Curnow delivered a remarkable performance with 20 points and five rebounds, while Engellant contributed 17 points and eleven rebounds, helping secure the victory for the Beavers. Looking ahead, Engellant has committed to continuing his basketball career at Montana Western, while Curnow has signed on to play football at Montana State. Both athletes have bright futures ahead, and their contributions have certainly made a lasting impact on the Dillon Beavers' successful season.
- Montana Western Announces Leadership Change In Women’s Basketball Program
University of Montana Western Press Release DILLON, MT – Montana Western Athletics announced a leadership change in the women's basketball program today. "I want to sincerely thank Coach Cooper for her hard work and dedication to the Bulldog women's basketball program over the past three years—first as an assistant and for the last two as head coach. She will always be a Bulldog and a National Champion, forever recognized for her contributions as part of the 2019 championship team. After a thorough evaluation of the program's current state and future direction, I have made the difficult decision that a change in leadership is necessary at this time. We appreciate Coach Cooper's commitment to our student-athletes and the program, and we wish her the best in her future endeavors." A national search will begin immediately for the next head coach of Montana Western Women's basketball.
- Special Meeting Of The City Council
125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers March 24, 2025 12:05 P.M. SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE A . DISCUSS/RECOMMEND ACCEPTANCE AND/OR REJECTION OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL THAT WAS HELD ON MARCH 14, 2025 B. PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS OF SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC INTEREST NOT ON THE AGENDA AND WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE CITY C. ADJOURNMENT PLEASE NOTE: The City of Dillon understands that citizens have the right under the Montana Constitution to observe and participate in local governmental affairs by personally attending all public meetings of the Dillon City Council and other City boards and committees. This meeting is open to the public as normal. Join the meeting with Zoom ID: 770-316-6528, allowing permission for microphone and camera (if using a computer go to https://zoom.us/j/7703166528 ) and use Passcode 4245. Please mute your microphone until you desire to comment. Any problems or questions, call City Hall at 683-4245.
- AD-HOC Committee Meeting
125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana AD-HOC COMMITTEE MEETING Zoning Regulations Review Committee March 25th, 2025 2:00 PM Barrett Hospital Conference Room 600 Mt Highway 91S, Dillon, MT 59725 ~ AGENDA ~ 1. Call Meeting to Order 2. Discuss/Review Title 17 3. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on The Agenda And Within The Jurisdiction of The City 4. Adjournment Please note that discussion may be based on review of other municipalities’ ordinances. These municipalities may include Havre, Whitefish, Hamilton, Livingston, Miles City and Anaconda. Their ordinances may be found online with corresponding links at http://www.dillonmt.org/ad-hoc-committee Committee Members: Tim Stoker Marcus Drew Taylor Rose Mary Anne Nicholas Riley Probst Russ Schwandt, Ex Officio
- BCHS Students Place In Southwest Montana Academic Tournament
From Mrs. Gentry Good evening- here is a quick update on our day at the Southwest Montana Academic tournament. Thank you to Tami for driving us safely! We really appreciate all our bus drivers for your dedication, which allows us to participate in great opportunities like we had today! Team C of: Darrell Lewis, Evelyn Tolman, Lilla Guiberson, and Greer Morstein, competed 1 player short but with a lot of heart. They faced the Sweetgrass team that went on to take 3rd. They are gaining confidence to 'trust their gut' and buzz in when they think they have the correct answer. The B team of: Daria Adkins, Clara Nittinger, Aven Pfleiger, Amelia Warren, and Abbi Eason found themselves to be very strong in similar areas and that made for advantages on certain questions, but disadvantages on others. They had a mixture of wins and losses, but were classy through it all. Our A team of: Izzy Regan, Brekken Venn, Hunter Wigen, Athan Graham, and Ean Field were a force to reckoned with and came out with a championship for the 2nd year in a row! Others teams, coaches, parents and scorers were quite impressed with their display of knowledge! BCHS will have our name engraved on the travelling trophy for the 4th time since 2021!! In the written competition (a 100 question Multiple Choice test) our students performed with the following results: Hunter Wigen - tied for top score out of all 141 students who took the test and 1st for juniors taking the test! Izzy Regan - tied for 2nd top score overall and took 2nd out of the juniors that took the test! Daria Adkins- top 16th score overall and 6th for all sophomores! Ean Field - top 10th score overall and 1st place for all Freshman who took the test! Abbi Eason- top 17th score overall and 4th place for all Freshman! Greer Morstein- top 18th score overall and 5th place for all Freshman! Also, in the top 20 scores for all grade levels were: Clara Nittinger, Brekken Venn and Lilla Guiberson! As always, I was very proud of our students and how well they represented BCHS in performance, sportsmanship and character! Thank you for your investments in these awesome young people! Janet Gentry P.S. Special thanks to Brekken and Abbi for helping me haul heavy items around all day, and for all the kids for being so thoughtful and kind to their coach who had some sore ribs due to the fact that she's better at math than snowmobiling! We really do have the best kids!!!!
- Montana Youth Challenge Academy To Host Airlift Event On March 20th
The Montana Youth Challenge Academy, in partnership with the Montana National Guard 1-189th (General Support Aviation Battalion) and the University of Montana Western, will be hosting the Legislative Airlift the evening of Thursday, March 20, 2025. The event provides members of state leadership the opportunity to experience the impact of MYCA on communities across Montana. The event also serves as a training activity for the National Guard, providing valuable and required training hours. Please be aware that military helicopters will be landing and taking off from UMW’s old football practice field, located on the south side of campus, the day of the event. To ensure public safety, please stay clear of this area on March 20th. For more information, please contact the Montana Youth Challenge Academy at 406-960-4424.
- Montana Western And Bank Of Commerce Performing Arts Series Present “Jasper In Deadland”
The University of Montana Western’s Theatre Program and the Bank of Commerce Performing Arts Series are excited to present “Jasper in Deadland” from April 16 to May 2. Jasper is lost in the living world. When you’re failing classes, kicked off the swim team, and your family is on the skids, life can feel like it’s going to hell. Yet, in all the disappointment, Jasper has her best friend, Agnes. In one night of teenage passion, Jasper and Agnes consummate a years-long friendship. But in the morning Agnes is gone, telling Jasper to meet her at their cliff. When she arrives there’s no sign of her best friend, only a swirling vortex to another world in the water below. Jasper dives into Deadland. “Jasper in Deadland” features a thrilling pop-rock score by Ryan Scott Oliver, a compelling book by Hunter Foster, and electrifying orchestrations by Solomon Hoffman. The production is directed by Stephen Alan Seder, assistant directed by Christina Scruggs, choreographed by Megan Chilson, and features elaborate and stunning design work by Adryan Miller-Gorder and Kendall Skoog. Performances will take place in UMW’s Beier Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from April 16 to May 2. To purchase tickets, please visit the BOC Performing Arts Series Box Office webpage ( www.umwestern.edu/bank-of-commerce-performing-arts-series/box-office/ ). Tickets are $16 for general admission, $12 for seniors (65+), youth (18 & under), and military, $10 for UMW faculty/staff, and free for UMW students with a student ID. This show has been assigned a PG-13 rating for its mature themes and strong language. JASPER IN DEADLAND is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals ( www.concordtheatricals.com ). For more information on the BOC series, visit www.umwestern.edu/bank-of-commerce-performing-arts-series/ .
- Ordinances & Facilities Committee Meeting
125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana ORDINANCES & FACILITIES COMMITTEE MEETING ~ Agenda ~ March 20th, 2025 4:00 PM 1. Call Meeting to Order 2. Review Title 10, Chapter 10.80 3. Review/Recommend Electronic Participation 4. Discuss Allowing Hen Turkeys in City Limits 5. Public Comment On Items Of Significant Public Interest Not On The Agenda And Within The Jurisdiction Of The City 6. Adjourn Committee Members: Bill Shafer, Chair Joleen Schultz Mary Jo O’Rourke
- Montana Technological University Invites K-12 Educators To Petroleum Resources Workshop
Joe Yakawich (Environmental Engineering, ’87), a 30-year U.S. military veteran, began his career after commissioning as an officer through Montana Tech’s Army ROTC program. While commanding the University of Montana’s Army ROTC program, he noticed that a significant number of students were struggling to find direction and purpose in their education. “Interviewing students as they entered their senior year, every year it was 80% of the students who did not know what they wanted to do when they graduated, and I thought that's a tragedy,” Yakawich said. Now, as an engineering teacher at Sentinel High School in Missoula, he’s doing something to make sure students realize their potential. “I kind of went on the warpath,” Yakawich said. “My goal is that before a senior from this school crosses the graduation stage, they're exposed to 60 different engineering fields to help inform their decision-making.” Yakawich is introducing a new, more in-depth module this year on petroleum engineering, after attending the free Montana Petroleum Resources Workshop led by Montana Tech’s Petroleum Engineering Department faculty. The program is sponsored by Hess Corporation, and allows K-12 teachers and high school counselors to learn about the petroleum industry and its impact on their local community. Participating teachers receive 31 License Renewal Units or two graduate college credits from Montana State University-Billings. “It’s a weeklong course for Montana K-12 school teachers,” Petroleum Engineering Department Head Todd Hoffman said. “It’s mostly math and science teachers, but anyone can come. We teach them about the oil and gas industry, and provide hands-on lessons and fun experiments they can take back to their classroom.” The program includes presentations about the petroleum industry, including leasing land, regulations, exploration, geology, drilling and production basics. In addition, topics on the future energy supply, sustainability, and climate change are discussed. Potential solutions to climate change, such as CO2 sequestration, are also covered. Besides the classroom content, the program includes three field trips to oilfield operations to see how petroleum is produced and refined. The highlight of the course is the hands-on activities and experiments demonstrating different aspects of the oil and gas industry. Yakawich called the experience enlightening. In addition to learning about how petroleum was extracted, the different products that are produced, and the engineering utilized in the production and refining processes, the field experiences gave excellent illustrations to what the industry is actually like. “I'm super glad I did this workshop,” Yakawich said. “Really learning about this industry is something that can't be done just sitting in a classroom. Part of it can, but there really isn’t any substitute for getting out into the field, physically seeing some of these production fields — most of which look like pristine farmland— talking to some of the folks that are running them, and realizing where they are in our community. You know, Montana's a big oil and gas producer, but I didn’t know that.” Yakawich says the experience could be valuable to other teachers. “You’re not going to be able to teach kids this stuff if you don't actually experience something like this,” Yakawich said. Ultimately, Yakawich wants students to understand where energy comes from, what direction the industry is going in, and about the career potential in the industry. “Energy is the foundation of our quality of life,” Yakawich said. “We need to have a robust portfolio of energy resources that is ultimately all renewable, but we are not there yet. In the meantime, the reality is, it's going to be many years before we develop an affordable and reliable renewable resource that's going to keep us warm in this below-zero weather that we live in for a chunk of the year. We need these fossil fuels to provide that high energy heat that we need, not only to be comfortable, but to, you know, to work and live. It’s important for everyone, especially young students,to understand that.” In the end, Yakawich believes he’s now better able to teach his students. “It's important for this generation of students to understand since they're the ones, in five to 10 years that are hopefully going to be out there continuing to find, extract, and refine these resources for the world,” Yakawich said. “I believe that as educators, it is our duty to prepare these students to be both realistic and critical thinkers in regards to our energy needs. If we don't do it, we're going to end up with a generation neither curious nor interested in any of this engineering, and that's just going to exacerbate the problem.” This year’s Petroleum Resources Workshop will be held in Billings June 9-13. For questions about the Workshop or registration, contact Lana Petersen at 406-782-2342 or ljpet@hotmail.com . The program brochure can be found here.
- Montana Western Announces Dr. Jane Helm Maddock Service Award Winners
The University of Montana Western is proud to announce that John and Phyllis Erb, Barb Malesich, and Shane Puyear have been selected as recipients of the 2025 Dr. Jane Helm Maddock Service Award for their remarkable contributions to UMW and the Dillon community. They will be honored during an awards dinner and ceremony on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in the Lewis and Clark Room of Mathews Hall at the University of Montana Western. The Dr. Jane Helm Maddock Service Award honors Dr. Jane Helm Maddock, who served as a professor of English at UMW for 18 years. Upon her retirement, she was named Professor Emeritus of English by the Montana University System Board of Regents. During her tenure at UMW, she established both the Helm Honors Scholarship and the Helm Memorial Scholarship in memory of her parents. The service award named in her honor recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to both the university and the Dillon community. Montana Western will also recognize five outstanding students for their service and civic engagement: Kaylee Fritz – Montana Athletes in Service Award Emmett Jeschke – George M. Dennison Civic Engagement Award Raina Mortensen, Abigail McClaflin, and Katherine Bills – Dr. Jane Helm Maddock Student Service Award The awards dinner and recognition ceremony will begin with a social at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:00 p.m., on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in the Lewis and Clark Room of Mathews Hall at the University of Montana Western. Tickets for the Dr. Jane Helm Maddock Service Awards Dinner can be purchased by contacting Kelly Allen at the UMW Foundation Office at 406-683-7306 by April 3, 2025. Tickets are priced at $30 per person. John and Phyllis Erb John and Phyllis Erb have made a significant impact on the Dillon community and the University of Montana Western. Their generosity and dedication to service have touched the lives of students, families, and community members in ways that will last for years to come. The Erbs were instrumental in the success of the $16 million Experience One Campaign, the largest fundraising effort in Montana Western’s history. Their support played a key role in bringing the Sports & Activities Complex to fruition. Without their generous gift of land, an on-campus stadium would not have become a reality. Additionally, John and Phyllis have been steady supporters of UMW students through academic scholarships and program support. Beyond the university, the Erbs have made a lasting impact as longtime ranchers in Beaverhead County. They have supported local public spaces, funded recreational opportunities for families, and worked to improve the overall quality of life in the community. Their contributions reflect their deep care and commitment to Dillon and its residents. Their ongoing dedication to service and their generous spirit make them exceptional recipients of the Dr. Jane Helm Maddock Service Award. John and Phyllis truly embody the kindness, generosity, and community spirit that this award honors. Barb Malesich Barb Malesich grew up on a farm and ranch along the Smith River as the youngest of five children. She developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for agriculture through her 10 years as a 4-H member. After graduating from Cascade High School in 1972, she attended Montana State University for two years before working at the American Simmental Association headquarters in Bozeman. While at MSU, she met her husband, Ed, and they married in 1977. Barb returned to the family ranch, where she has been ever since, helping with daily operations and preparing meals for the crew during branding and calving seasons. In addition to her work on the ranch, Barb dedicated 20 years to the Dillon elementary school hot lunch program, serving as head baker before retiring in 2011. A dedicated community member, she has served as a 4-H leader and helped organize Range Days. She also spent years teaching Sunday school. Barb is an active member and past president of Chapter AD PEO, a philanthropic educational organization that supports women’s education worldwide. Her chapter provides scholarships to University of Montana Western students in need, and Barb has served on the fundraising committee for many years. She also plays a key role in the First Presbyterian Pastoral Care Team, visiting residents at the BeeHive assisted living facility and offering church services and communion. Additionally, she regularly visits elderly and homebound church members, bringing them comfort and companionship. For the past nine years, Barb has helped organize and set up the Montana Western Rodeo Team’s silent auction, a major fundraising event that supports student-athletes. She looks forward to continuing her involvement again this year. Barb and Ed have two children, Kolby and Kapri, and five grandchildren. She treasures time spent with her family, whether playing cards, camping, or traveling. She and Ed also enjoy camping and traveling the world. Barb’s dedication to her community, education, and agriculture is truly inspiring, and her impact continues to be felt by many. Shane Puyear Born and raised in Dillon, Montana, Shane Puyear is a proud graduate of the University of Montana Western and a dedicated member of the community. His banking career began 25 years ago in Tualatin, Oregon, and over the years, he explored various professional opportunities in multiple states before ultimately returning to his hometown. Fourteen years ago, Shane joined Stockman Bank in Dillon, where he continues to serve and support local businesses and residents. Beyond his professional career, Shane is deeply committed to public service and community involvement. He currently serves as the Vice Commander for Beaverhead Search and Rescue, playing a critical role in emergency response efforts. Additionally, he is the Vice President of the Board of Directors for Barrett Hospital & Healthcare and a dedicated member of the Barrett Hospital Foundation. His past service also includes time as a board member for the Southwestern Montana Family YMCA. Shane is a proud supporter of Montana Western ranging from athletics to academic programs. Through his employer, he started supporting the Montana Western Education Hall of Fame event many years ago because he has seen the impact of teachers first hand. Shane and his wife, Lacie, have built a strong foundation in the Dillon community, raising their two sons, Parker and Paxton. Parker is currently a sophomore at Carroll College, while Paxton is a sophomore at Beaverhead County High School. Shane’s leadership, commitment to service, and dedication to his hometown exemplify the spirit of the Dr. Jane Helm Maddock Service Award. His contributions continue to make a lasting impact on Montana Western and the greater Dillon community.
- City Council Meeting
125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers March 19th, 2025 6:45 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING on the Subdivision of a Parcel of Land in SE1/SE1/4 of Section 13 and the NE1/4NE1/4 of Section 24, T7S, R9W, P.M.M. 7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE A. PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS ON THE AGENDA B. MINUTES 1. Approve Minutes of March 5th, 2025 Regular Meeting 2. Approve Minutes of March 14th, 2025 Special Meeting C. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS D. MAYOR’S REPORT 1. Approve Manion Engineering Contract E. REPORTS OF OFFICERS AND BOARDS OF THE CITY 1. Planning Board - Bill Shafer, Raymond Graham 2. Zoning Commission - Russ Schwandt, Anneliese Ripley a. Accept February 25th, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes 1. Set Public Hearing Date for CUP-001 3. Board of Adjustments - Diane Armstrong, Joleen Schultz 4. Director of Operations – Kristina Abbey 5. Police Department – Police Chief Jeremy Alvarez a. Accept Report for February 2025 6. Fire Department -- Fire Chief BJ Klose a. Accept February, 2025 Activity Report b. Approve City Clerk Report for Fire Hall for February, 2025 c. Approve Budget vs. Expenditures Report for Fire Hall for February, 2025 7. City Court – Judge Bill Knox a. Accept Court Report for February, 2025 8. Treasurer – Karen Kipp 9. Library Board - Diane Armstrong, Council Member; (Vacant), Library Director 10. Tree Board – Mary Jo O’Rourke, Council Member F. REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1. Ordinances & Facilities – Bill Shafer, Chair; Joleen Schultz, Mary Jo O’Rourke 2. Finance Committee – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Diane Armstrong, Mary Jo O’Rourke 3. Public Services – Diane Armstrong, Chair; Bill Shafer, Don Deem 4. Open Spaces – Raymond Graham, Chair; Anneliese Ripley, Joleen Schultz 5. Public Works – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Anneliese Ripley, Raymond Graham a. Approve the Minutes of March 12, 2025 Regular Meeting 1. Approve Resolution of Intent #1479 – Vacate Certain Streets of West Side Addition 2. Approve Resolution of Intent #1480 – Accept Franklin Street of West Side Addition G. PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS OF SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC INTEREST NOT ON THE AGENDA AND WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE CITY H. ADJOURNMENT PLEASE NOTE: The City of Dillon understands that citizens have the right under the Montana Constitution to observe and participate in local governmental affairs by personally attending all public meetings of the Dillon City Council and other City boards and committees. This meeting is open to the public as normal. Join the meeting with Zoom ID: 770-316-6528, allowing permission for microphone and camera (if using a computer go to https://zoom.us/j/7703166528 ) and use Passcode 4245. Please mute your microphone until you desire to comment. Any problems or questions, call City Hall at 683-4245.