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Firefighters from the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest responded late yesterday afternoon to a reported wildfire in the Basin Creek Reservoir area, approximately 11 miles south of Butte and about one mile southeast of the Basin Creek Picnic Area. The fire was initially estimated at one acre but has since grown to approximately three acres. Crews reported the blaze burning actively in heavy slash and creeping toward nearby timbered areas. No snow is present at the site. Firefighters worked until 7:00 p.m. constructing saw line along the southern edge and portions of the northern perimeter of the fire. These containment lines were then used as buffers to conduct small-scale tactical firing operations, helping remove available fuels from the active fire edge and slow its progression. Although the fire is located within the Basin Creek Watershed Project area, the Forest Service confirmed that no slash piles had been burned in the immediate vicinity prior to the incident. An investigation into the cause of the fire will be conducted by Forest Service Law Enforcement. Additional firefighters are scheduled to join the effort today as crews continue working toward full extinguishment.

BUTTE, Mont. - The four-seed Montana Western men's basketball program (20-9, 15-7 FC) was clipped by five-seed Montana Tech (22-7, 15-7 FC) 93-65 Saturday. "Credit to Tech, they came out ready to go," head coach Patrick Jensen said. "I thought their defensive intensity was the difference, it seemed like we were on our heels most of the night. And that's on me to make sure our guys are ready to go." STAT BREAKDOWN UMW shot 38.1 percent (24-63) from the floor, 27.3 percent (6-22) from three, and 73.3 percent (11-15) from the foul line. Western tallied 22 rebounds, three assists, nine steals, and two blocks. The Bulldogs earned 24 points in the paint, 15 points off turnovers, six second-chance points, and 20 bench points. LEADERBOARD Emanuel Steward led the team with 19 points, followed by Kyle Gruhler with 10. Steward also paced the team with seven boards. David Young tallied team-bests in assists (two) and steals (three). Kolter Merritt and Quincy Taylor swatted one block apiece for the Bulldogs. NOTABLES Steward reached double figures for the 27th time on the year. Young tallied his eighth multi-steal game this season. Every Bulldog who saw action scored at least three points. GAME SUMMARY The Orediggers opened the game on an 11-0 before stretching their lead to 23, 49-26, at the halftime whistle. UMW shot 25.8 percent (8-31) from the floor, 33.3 percent (3-9) from three, and 70.0 percent (7-10) from the foul line in the first half. The Bulldogs showed moxie to start the second half and cut the lead to 14. Montana Tech continued its strong perimeter shooting, however, and put the game out of reach of Western. THE OPPOSITION The Orediggers shot 59.6 percent (34-57) from the field, 50.0 percent (12-24) from three, and 76.5 percent (13-17) from the stripe. They tallied 38 rebounds, 14 assists, four steals, and five blocks. Brayden Koch led all players with 29 points. Hayden Diekhans posted game-highs in both rebounds (nine) and assists (four). Rhett Reynolds and Ethan Venema both registered two blocks while four different players tallied one steal each. LOOKING AHEAD Western now awaits word from the NAIA on a possible national tournament bid.

BUTTE, Mont. - The Montana Western women's basketball program (14-13, 12-11 FC) earned a trip to the Frontier Conference semis with a 65-56 victory over Carroll (19-10, 17-5 FC) Saturday. The Bulldogs showcased an incredible defensive effort, holding the three-seed Fighting Saints under 30.0 percent from the floor and under 20.0 percent from beyond the arc. "We talked this week about how we had to win the game that was going to be played," head coach Ryan Sullivan said. "We did a phenomenal job in the second half of staying even-keel, and I think our seniors really spearheaded that. There wasn't doubt that we were going to have a chance to win the game with the way we have been playing recently, so I am supper proud of them to not flinch against a really good basketball team." STAT BREAKDOWN UMW shot 50.0 percent (24-48) from the floor, 33.3 percent (4-12) from beyond the arc, and 56.5 percent (13-23) from the foul line. Western tallied 44 rebounds, seven assists, three steals, and three blocks in the contest. The Bulldogs registered 20 points in the paint, four points off turnovers, two second-chance points, and 26 bench points. LEADERBOARD Bailee Sayler led all players with 22 points, followed by Isabella Lund (16) and Keke Davis (11). Davis earned a double-double with a game-high 11 rebounds while Sayler had nine. Lund and Davis dished out two assists each. Lund, Sayler, and Mila Hawk tallied one steal apiece. Sayler swatted a game-best two blocks. NOTABLES Sayler shot 87.5 percent (7-8) from the floor, 66.7 percent (2-3) from deep, and 85.7 percent (6-7) from the charity stripe. Davis posted her fourth double-double of the season. Bellach drained multiple threes for the third straight game. Lund registered her 16th double-digit scoring effort this season. The Bulldogs pulled down more than 40 rebounds for the ninth time. At least three blocks for the sixth time in the last seven games. Western held its opponent under 30.0 percent from the floor for the fifth time on the campaign. GAME SUMMARY The Bulldogs jumped out to an early five-point lead, but the Saints fought their way back to tie it with just under three minutes to play in the first. Western held a three-point advantage, 14-11, after 10 minutes of action. Carroll took the lead late in the second period, but a buzzer-beating jumper from Davis tied the game at 25 as the teams headed to the locker rooms. UMW shot 43.5 percent (10-23) from the field, 25.0 percent (2-8) from beyond the arc, and 37.5 percent (3-8) from the foul line in the first half. Western locked in after half, building up to an 11-point lead, 45-34, with one quarter remaining. The Saints shot just 13.3 percent (2-15) from the field in the third frame. Carroll fought back within six with five minutes remaining in regulation, but the Bulldogs weathered the storm. Sayler was clutch at the line down the stretch to seal the nine-point win. THE OPPOSITION The Fighting Saints shot 27.7 percent (18-65) from the floor, 15.0 percent (3-20) from distance, and 89.5 percent (17-19) from the foul line. They tallied 31 rebounds, three assists, 10 steals, and one block. Kenzie Allen led the team with 12 points, followed by Meagan Karstetter and Willa Albrecht with 11 apiece. Allen also pulled down a team-best six boards and paced all players with four steals. Jillian Kanduch dished out a team-best two assists while Allen swatted the lone block of the game for Carroll. LOOKING AHEAD The Bulldogs take on two-seed Montana Tech in the conference semis tomorrow. Tipoff is set for 2:30 p.m. MT.

Claire Gay, UMW Sports Information HELENA, Mont. – Montana Western Men's Basketball players Kyle Gruhler and Emanuel Steward received Frontier Conference Men's Basketball All-Conference recognition, the league office announced Thursday. Both players were named to the All-Conference First Team. Gruhler earned seven Frontier Men's Basketball Offensive Player of the Week honors and one NAIA Men's Basketball Offensive Player of the week nod in his senior campaign. He averaged a team-high 20.1 points and added 4.4 rebounds per game. The Vancouver, Wash., native shot 52.7 percent from the floor, 49.0 percent from distance, and 85.3 percent from the foul line. He posted 24 double-digit scoring efforts, including five with more than 30. He also drained at least three three-pointers on 19 occasions. Steward made the most of his lone year with the Bulldogs. He averaged 17.6 points and a team-best 3.9 assists per game. He also picked up one Frontier Men's Basketball Player of the Week selection. The senior out of Portland, Ore., shot 43.8 percent from the field, 32.6 percent from three, and 83.7 percent from the stripe. He dropped double-digit points in all but two contests this season, including 12 with at least 20. He also dished out five or more assists 13 times. LOOKING AHEAD The four-seed Bulldogs open the Frontier Conference Tournament against five-seed Montana Tech. Tipoff is set for 5 p.m. MT this Saturday (2/28).

Claire Gay, UMW Sports Information HELENA, Mont. – Montana Western Women's Basketball players Bailee Sayler and Isabella Lund picked up Frontier Conference Women's Basketball All-Conference honors, the league office announced Thursday. Sayler was named Frontier Sixth Woman of the Year while she and Lund were both tabbed to the All-Conference Second Team. Sayler burst onto the scene in her first year with the Bulldogs and finished the regular season averaging 13.0 points and 4.4 rebounds per game. She shot 43.3 percent from the floor, 40.8 percent from beyond the arc, and a team-best 87.7 percent from the foul line. The sophomore out of Missoula, Mont., posted 17 double-digit scoring efforts, including eight-straight to end the regular season. She drained at least three three-pointers on nine occasions. She also earned one Frontier Women's Basketball Offensive Player of the Week nod. In Lund's senior campaign she averaged 12.0 points and led the team in both assists (4.2) and steals (1.9) per game. She shot 44.1 percent from the floor and 74.8 percent from the charity stripe. The Tumwater, Wash., native scored in double figures 15 times on the season, including four with 20 points or more. She dished out five or more assists in 11 outings. LOOKING AHEAD The Bulldogs open the 2026 Frontier Conference Tournament as the six-seed. They face off against three-seed Carroll Saturday (2/28) at 2:30 p.m. MT.

The Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement (MCNCE) is proud to announce the 2025–26 George M. Dennison Civic Engagement Scholarship recipients, including Montana Western students Lanie Crabb and Vivian Mayers. This scholarship recognizes outstanding college students across Montana who demonstrate exemplary civic leadership and a commitment to fostering positive change in their communities. 2025-26 Scholarship Recipients: Lanie Crabb, University of Montana Western Vivian Mayers, University of Montana Western Josiah Aimsback, Blackfeet Community College Tracie Castro, Great Falls College Sarah Fetterman, Montana State University Steven Henson, MSU Northern Josie Kleman, University of Montana LaFaye Lizotte, MSU Northern Connor Mace, Aaniiih Nakota College Amanda Mazur, University of Montana Grace Mock, MSU Billings Julie Russell, Great Falls College MSU Chayla Russell, Salish Kootenai College Grace Thorson, Dawson Community College Kennedy Venner, Carroll College These inspiring students have provided hundreds of volunteer hours to causes close to their hearts and, in doing so, have significantly impacted their campuses and communities. By leading projects that address issues ranging from food insecurity to homelessness and substance abuse, they have mobilized their peers and brought attention to critical needs. Their dedication reflects the values of George M. Dennison, the late president of the University of Montana and one of the founding presidents of the Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement (then Montana Campus Compact) more than thirty years ago. Dennison championed higher education as a force for civic and community engagement. “Reading these scholarship applications is simultaneously one of the most inspiring and difficult things we do all year,” said Josh Vanek with the Campus Network for Civic Engagement. “It gives me enormous hope that we have truly amazing problem solvers in every community in our state.” Lanie Crabb Lanie serves as the Suicide Prevention and Awareness Coordinator for the PATH Program at Montana Western , planning regular campus events and collaborating with counseling services entirely on a volunteer basis. She also dedicates time to the Rural Fridays Program, supporting rural and homeschooled youth, and has maintained a 15-year family tradition of preparing Quartz Creek Cemetery for Memorial Day. Vivian Mayers Vivian has contributed more than 290 hours across three distinct volunteer roles: teaching preschool religious education at her parish, coaching a youth horseback drill team through Minnesota 4-H, and supporting high school athletes as a volunteer pole vault coach. Her service reflects a broad commitment to youth development spanning faith, athletics, and academics. About the George M. Dennison Civic Engagement Scholarship The George M. Dennison Civic Engagement Scholarship was established to honor President Dennison’s legacy and commitment to student leadership. Each recipient receives a $1,000 scholarship. The award is presented annually to students across Montana who exhibit outstanding contributions to civic life and community while maintaining their academic studies. The scholarship has historically been supported by contributions from the Dennison family, Reach Higher Montana, and private donors. Join Us in Celebrating These Student Leaders We invite the public to congratulate these remarkable individuals as they continue to inspire and lead efforts to create stronger, more inclusive communities. Their achievements testify to the transformative power of civic engagement. Support the Scholarship The George M. Dennison Civic Engagement Scholarship relies on the generosity of donors to continue fostering civic leadership among Montana’s students. Your contribution helps ensure the scholarship continues. Contributions can be made online at supportum.org/give . Please select “Other” in the Designation Choice field and specify “George M. Dennison Civic Engagement Scholarship” in the comments field. The University of Montana Foundation manages these funds and supports students across all affiliated institutions. For more information or questions about the scholarship, please contact MCNCE at  info@mtengage.org .

Claire Gay, UMW Sports Information HELENA, Mont. –  Montana Western women's basketball player Keke Davis picked up Frontier Conference Women's Basketball Offensive Player of the Week honors, the league office announced Monday It marks her second career Erck Hotels/ Frontier Conference Player of the Week nod. Davis had a phenomenal weekend, leading the Bulldogs to wins over Providence (71-67) and (RV) MSU-Northern (73-64). She nearly averaged a double-double, posting 26.0 points, and 9.5 rebounds in the wins over Providence and MSU-Northern. The Missoula, Mont., native shot 71.4 percent (20-28) from the floor and 91.7 percent (11-12) from the foul line on the weekend. She tallied a career-high 29-point, 11-rebound double-double against the Argos Against the Skylights, the senior once again posted a game-high with 23 points and eight rebounds while also adding two steals and an assist. Sayler has recorded 13 double-digit scoring effort this season and six double-figure rebounding games.   LOOKING AHEAD Western opens the conference tournament as the six-seed and will face off against three-seed Carroll in the quarterfinals Saturday. Tipoff is set for 2:30 p.m. MT

DILLON, Mont. — Community members are invited to attend an upcoming presentation focused on raising awareness about sexually groomed and trafficked youth in the Dillon area and how residents can play a role in prevention and intervention. The event, titled “Sexually Groomed/Trafficked Youth in Our Community: How We All Can Take Part in the Solution,”  will be held Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the Dillon Public Library. The presentation is being offered in conjunction with a grant from the Montana Children’s Trust Fund, which supports efforts to bring awareness to child abuse and neglect. Organizers say the goal of the evening is to provide education, encourage conversation, and equip the community with practical tools to better recognize and respond to grooming and exploitation. The public is welcome to attend. A light snack will be provided, and an activity will be available for children attending with parents or guardians. Featured Speakers Natalie Paulbeck will present from both lived experience and professional expertise. With a Master’s degree in Forensic Human Services and more than ten years of experience working with youth in this field, Paulbeck offers a trauma-informed perspective on grooming and trafficking. She will address the realities of coercion and manipulation, as well as systemic gaps that can leave youth vulnerable. Her work centers on accountability, resilience, and practical strategies for prevention and intervention. Organizers say Paulbeck focuses on helping communities understand how grooming operates and how individuals can respond in ways that protect youth without causing further harm. Joining her will be Dillon Chief of Police Joel Stewart, who brings ten years of law enforcement experience serving the local community. Chief Stewart has emphasized strengthening partnerships between law enforcement, advocates, social services, and prosecutors to ensure survivors are met with dignity and coordinated support. Stewart attends Children’s Justice Alliance conferences, participates in a monthly multidisciplinary team focused on child abuse cases, and regularly provides educational sessions for the Montana Youth Challenge Academy. He also serves on the board of the Women’s Resource Center. Community Engagement Encouraged Organizers encourage parents, caregivers, educators, and community members to attend the presentation. The evening is designed not only to raise awareness, but also to provide practical steps individuals can take to help protect youth and support prevention efforts within the community.

HELENA, Mont. –  Montana Western men's basketball player Kyle Gruhler earned his seventh Erck Hotels/ Frontier Conference Men's Basketball Offensive Player of the Week honor of the season, the league office announced Monday. Gruhler's sharp shooting led the Bulldogs to road wins at Providence (85-62) and (RV) MSU-Northern (83-79). The senior averaged 24.5 points, 9.0rebounds, 2.0 assists on the weekend.   He shot 65.5 percent (19-29) from the floor, 60.0 percent (9-15) from beyond the arc. The Vancouver, Wash., native posted 16 points, eight boards, and three assists in the win over the Argos. He drained four threes in the contest. He followed that with a career-high 33-point, 10-rebound double-double against the Lights, knocking down five threes while adding one assists and two steals. Gruhler has posted 15 20-point games this season, including five with 30 or more.

University of Montana Western alumna Brigid Reedy, an interdisciplinary artist whose work bridges poetry, music, horsemanship, and visual art, has announced the release of “Seeds,” her first book of original poetry and artwork. The publication marks the beginning of Reedy’s Montana book tour and is the first written work she has formally published. Reedy graduated from the University of Montana Western in spring 2025 with two bachelor’s degrees, one in English Literature and the other in Natural Horsemanship with an option in instruction. A lifelong performer who began connecting with audiences through music at the age of two, Reedy credits her upbringing, homeschool background, and focus on liberal arts education with shaping an artistic practice that resists boundaries and celebrates interconnected ways of knowing. “Montana Western was first a place where all of my worlds—music, poetry, horsemanship, philosophy, and art—were able to coexist and encouraged to inform one another,” Reedy said. “There were no hard lines between the arena and the classroom. Everything felt connected and deeply rooted in lived experience.” “Seeds” is a broad and eclectic collection of 56 original poems, blending works developed through the oral tradition with newly written pieces that cross multiple forms, styles, and genres. Themes of cycles, regeneration, and cultural continuity flow throughout the collection. The title reflects both a moment of beginning and an homage to tradition, developed in collaboration with Reedy’s father, a singer, songwriter, and poet who helped raise her within the cowboy arts tradition. In addition to her poetry, Reedy also designed the book’s title graphic and created the original pen-and-ink drawings throughout the volume. Inspired by 19th-century seed catalogs and engraved plate illustrations, the floral images draw heavily from traditional leather tooling styles. For the past several years, Reedy has been working closely with master saddle maker George Holt, whom she considers one of the best in the field. She hand-drew each illustration to scale using fine-detail Japanese mangaka pens that echo the detailed work found in traditional leather tooling. Having lived throughout Southwest Montana and the ranching West, Reedy considers herself “of a place” as an artist, an anchoring perspective that grounds her wide-ranging work. Horses serve as a unifying thread across her creative life, connecting movement, culture, craft, and the broader traditions of the American West. A longtime participant in the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada, Reedy has attended the event for more than 20 years and has been a featured performer for many of them, crossing generational lines with some of the most influential voices in cowboy poetry and music. She has also served as a teller-in-residence at the International Storytelling Center and performed at the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, Tennessee. Her performance career includes appearances at Carnegie Hall and the Grand Ole Opry, and she was featured on the album “Roll On Cowboys,” produced by Andy Hedges. Much of the work in “Seeds” was shaped during Reedy’s time at Montana Western, where faculty supported the integration of personal creative work into academic coursework. Several poems began as projects within the English Literature and Natural Horsemanship programs, with faculty mentorship helping refine them into finished pieces. “The English Department was incredibly supportive of my creative and professional work,” Reedy said. “Nothing was done just for a grade. Every project was something that mattered deeply to me and gave me real, applicable skills as an artist.” Reedy credits multiple faculty members for shaping her academic and artistic journey, including Dr. Bethany Blankenship, whose dual enrollment WRIT 101 course initially drew her to Montana Western; Dr. Laura Wright, who helped her explore poetry across literary traditions; and Dr. Brian Elliott, whose courses fostered intellectual risk-taking and respect for diverse perspectives. Instructor of Equine Studies, Olie Else, invited Reedy into the Natural Horsemanship program in recognition of her cultural background and artistic perspective, where she was later nominated by faculty as the program’s Top Student in 2023. Reedy frequently performs as a duo with her brother Johnny Reedy, a current Montana Western student studying English Literature and an interdisciplinary degree with a unique focus he has titled “Culture and Sustainability of the American West,” that incorporates subjects including environmental sustainability, scientific writing, and music. The siblings will also be featured together in an upcoming full episode of “11th & Grant” airing in March on Montana PBS with host Eric Funk. The official launch event for “Seeds” will take place Saturday, February 28, from 5–7 p.m. at Sweetwater Coffee in Dillon. The event will include a reading, artist’s talk, book signing, and a concurrent display of Reedy’s original artwork. Books will be available for purchase provided by The Bookstore. The public is invited, and light refreshments will be served. This event marks the beginning of Reedy’s Montana book tour, with additional locations planned across the state, including a forthcoming stop at the C.M. Russell Museum this spring. In addition to her artistic work, Reedy teaches workshops and lessons in Natural Horsemanship, Western dance, music, and leather tooling. For more information about “Seeds,” upcoming tour dates, or workshops, visit  www.brigidreedy.com  or follow @brigidreedy_official on Instagram.

DILLON, Mont. — February 13, 2026  — The Dillon Volunteer Fire Department held its annual Sweethearts Dinner Friday evening, an event dedicated each year to honoring and appreciating the service and dedication of its volunteer firefighters. The evening brought together firefighters, families, and community members for a night of recognition and celebration. Providing entertainment for the night was Joel Longie, while Josh Waldo served as the guest speaker. Several awards were presented recognizing outstanding service within the department: Rookie of the Year:  Laurel Marie Herbert Firefighter of the Year:  Talon Herbert Officer of the Year:  Chris Murolo A special moment of the evening came as Chief B.J. Klose was recognized for his years of service to the department. Klose is stepping away from his role as Fire Chief as he prepares to take a new position in Idaho. He received a heartfelt tribute in appreciation of his leadership and dedication to the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department. The Sweethearts Dinner remains a longstanding tradition in Dillon, celebrating the volunteers who answer the call to serve and protect the community year-round. P.C. Dillon Volunteer Facebook Page

DILLON, Mont. — February 17, 2026  — Candidate filing for the 2026 Beaverhead County Elections officially opens Tuesday, February 17, 2026, and will close Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The following county positions are up for election: Position Term Length Filing Fee County Commissioner – District #1 6-year term $350.10 County Clerk & Recorder 4-year term $340.10 County Treasurer 4-year term $340.10 Sheriff/Coroner 4-year term $420.12 County Attorney 4-year term $630.50 Justice of the Peace 4-year term $340.10 Public Administrator 4-year term $15.00 Superintendent of Schools 4-year term $340.10 Individuals wishing to file for office must complete a Declaration of Nomination  and submit it along with the appropriate filing fee to the Beaverhead County Election Office no later than 5:00 p.m. on March 4, 2026 . The notice was signed this 17th day of February, 2026, by Stacey Reynolds, Beaverhead County Election Administrator. Residents with questions regarding the filing process are encouraged to contact the Election Office at the Beaverhead County Courthouse.

DILLON, Mont. — February 24, 2026 — Community members are invited to attend an important presentation focused on raising awareness about child abuse and neglect. Natalie Paulbeck and Dillon Chief of Police Joel Stewart will speak at 5:30 p.m. at the Dillon Public Library. The presentation is being held in conjunction with a grant received from the Montana Children's Trust Fund. The grant supports efforts by local authority figures to provide education and resources that bring awareness to the signs, prevention, and impact of child abuse and neglect within the community. The event is open to the public. A light snack will be provided, and an activity will be available for children attending with parents or guardians. Community members are encouraged to attend, learn more about this important issue, and take part in strengthening awareness and prevention efforts in Beaverhead County.

February 14, 2026 — Six young athletes were crowned champions Saturday at the Montana Elks State “Hoop Shoot”® Free Throw Contest, held at Park High School in Livingston. Three girls and three boys, ages 8–13, claimed state titles after earning their way through multiple levels of competition. First, second, and third-place trophies were awarded in each of three age divisions: 8–9, 10–11, and 12–13. The 30 state finalists began their journey in the fall of 2025, competing in local lodge contests hosted by Montana Elks lodges across the state. Winners advanced to district competitions, where they were named District Champions and earned the opportunity to compete at the state level in Livingston. Road to Regionals The six Montana State Champions will now represent the state at the Regional Semi-Finals in Rapid City, South Dakota, on Saturday, March 7, 2026. There, they will compete against champions from North Dakota and South Dakota. Regional winners will advance to the National Finals in Chicago on April 18, 2026. National champions will have their names digitally inscribed at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts. A National Tradition The Elks “Hoop Shoot”®, organized by the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, began in 1946 as a local program in Corvallis, Oregon. Now in its 54th year of national competition, the contest has grown into one of the largest and most respected youth free throw competitions in the country, with more than one million boys and girls expected to participate annually. The program is endorsed by hundreds of school systems nationwide and is funded through the Elks National Foundation, along with support from local lodges and state associations. Travel and lodging expenses for contestants and their parents are covered by the Elks.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 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 the Minutes of February 4 th , 2026 Regular City Council Meeting 2.         Accept the Transcript of February 4 th , 2026 Public Hearing 3.         Approve the Minutes of February 11 th , 2026 Special City Council Meeting   C.        PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS AND OTHER ACTION ITEMS         1.         Accept Resignation of Mayor John McGinley 2.         Appoint Kegan Rhein as Probationary Patrolman 3.         Craig Cornell – Tulley Springs Subdivision Update 4.         Discussion and Decision as to Whether Councilman Graham Should be Removed from Office Due to a Finding by the Election Administrator That He Does Not Reside Within the City Limits 5.         Discuss/Recommend HB 231 & SB 542; Property Tax Changes       6.         Approve Amended Work Order #7 and Update on SID #38 7.         Approve Retaining Engineering Firm WGM Group Inc to Prove Testing of Rife Street and Further Litigation Support in Wendland v. City of Dillon , Cause No. DV-1-2025-14848-BC 8.         Letter from R B Swenson 9.         Update on Whittney Petersen Fence Complaint    D.        REPORTS OF OFFICERS AND BOARDS OF THE CITY 1.         Mayor’s Report 2.         City Attorney – Ed Guza 3.         Planning Board - Raymond Graham, Tara Stevens                         a.         Accept the Minutes of December 16 th , 2025 Regular Meeting 4.         Zoning Commission – Joleen Schultz, Mike Brumbaugh                         a.         Accept the Minutes of January 27 th , 2026 Regular Meeting 5.         Board of Adjustments – Mary Jo O’Rourke, Don Deem            6.         Director of Operations – Kristina Abbey                         a.         Approve the 2026 Transportation Coordination Plan 7.         Police Department –Police Chief Joel Stewart 8.         Fire Department -- Fire Chief BJ Klose 9.         City Court – Judge Bill Knox                         a.         Accept the Court Report for January 2026 10.       Library Board –Russ Schwandt, Council Member; Kim Denny, Library Director 11.       Tree Board -  Jeremy Crawford, Council Member 12.       Treasurer – Karen Kipp                         a.         Update on Audit and Annual Financial Report             E.        REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1.         Ordinances & Facilities – Joleen Schultz, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Don Deem 2.         Finance Committee – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Jeremy Crawford                         a.         Approve the Minutes of the February 12, 2026 Special Finance Meeting 3.         Public Services – Mike Brumbaugh, Chair; Don Deem, Tara Stevens 4.         Open Spaces – Raymond Graham, Chair; Joleen Schultz, Jeremy Crawford 5.         Public Works – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Raymond Graham, Mike Brumbaugh     F.        PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS OF SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC INTEREST NOT ON THE  AGENDA AND WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE CITY   G.        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.