Search Results

DILLON — The Dillon Public Library is serving up some fun for local teens as it launches the first Teen Tuesday event of its 2026 Summer Reading Program. Teens ages 13 to 18 are invited to join library staff on Tuesday at 6 p.m. at the pickleball courts located at 1573 Overland Road for an evening of learning and playing one of the nation's fastest-growing sports. Participants will have the opportunity to learn the basics of pickleball, play games, and enjoy snacks, including pickle-flavored chips, pickle Popsicles, and bottled water. A parent or guardian waiver will be required for participation. In addition to the activities, one lucky teen will win a pickleball set. The library is also reminding teens to mark their calendars for one of the program's most anticipated annual events. The Annual Bannack Hide-and-Seek for teens is scheduled for June 16. Library officials encourage families to stop by the Dillon Public Library to pick up a 2026 Summer Reading Program brochure, which includes a complete schedule of events and activities planned throughout the summer. For additional information about the Summer Reading Program or Teen Tuesday events, contact the Dillon Public Library at 406-683-4544.

DILLON — The City of Dillon is currently accepting applications for two important leadership positions: Mayor and Director of Operations. The openings come as the city works to fill the vacancy in the Mayor's Office following the resignation of Mayor Mike Klakken and continues its search for a Director of Operations to oversee several key city departments. Applications Being Accepted for Mayor Appointment The Dillon City Council is seeking qualified residents interested in being appointed to serve as Mayor until a successor is elected and qualified during the 2027 general election. According to the city, the council plans to appoint a mayor during its July 1, 2026, City Council meeting. Applications must be submitted by June 26, 2026, at noon. Under Montana law, applicants must: Be at least 21 years old. Be a registered voter in Montana. Have been a Montana resident for at least three years. Have been a resident of the City of Dillon for at least two years preceding the appointment. Meet all other legal qualifications for office. Interested candidates are asked to submit: A letter of interest explaining why they want to serve as mayor and their qualifications. A resume or professional summary outlining education, experience, and community involvement. Any additional supporting materials they wish the City Council to consider. Applications may be submitted in person, by mail, or by email to the Dillon City Clerk's Office at 125 N. Idaho Street. Director of Operations Position Open The City of Dillon is also accepting applications for the position of Director of Operations. The Director of Operations supervises, directs, and plans the daily activities of the city's water and sewer, street and alley, cemetery, bus service, animal control, and parks departments. The position also includes enforcement of city codes and ordinances. Minimum qualifications include: A valid Montana driver's license. A bachelor's degree in public administration, business administration, political science, business management, or a related field from an accredited college or university; or Five years of experience as a municipal administrator; or A combination of education and experience that meets the requirements. Applicants for the Director of Operations position are asked to submit a city application, resume, and cover letter to the City Clerk's Office at 125 N. Idaho Street. The mayoral application deadline is June 26, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. The City Council is expected to make the appointment during its July 1 meeting. For additional information regarding the mayoral appointment process, contact City Clerk Kami Hoerning at 406-683-4245.

DILLON — Firefighters are responding to the Dubois Fire, a small wildfire burning in the East Pioneer Mountains northwest of Dillon. According to Thursday morning's wildfire update, the fire is located between Bond Lake and Deerhead Lake below Torrey Mountain and is currently estimated at less than one acre in size. Fire crews planned to conduct a helicopter reconnaissance flight Thursday morning while working to establish access to the fire area, which is inaccessible by vehicle. The fire is burning in steep, rocky terrain containing heavy concentrations of standing dead trees, commonly known as snags, along with downed lodgepole pine. Officials report that fire behavior has remained limited, with creeping and smoldering activity observed. Residents and travelers may notice smoke from several locations throughout the region. Smoke is expected to be visible from Interstate 15 between Divide and Dillon, as well as from eastern valleys stretching from Twin Bridges to Sheridan. Fire managers continue to monitor the situation and will provide additional updates as more information becomes available.

DILLON — Artists from across Southwest Montana are being invited to share their creativity and support a meaningful cause through the 2026 Gallery of Hope fundraiser benefiting the Women's Resource Center (WRC). Presented in partnership with Resolute Roots Realty and Vessey Properties, the Gallery of Hope celebrates the healing power of art while raising awareness and support for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. This year's theme, "Inspiring Healing," encourages artists to create works that reflect hope, resilience, recovery, and personal growth. Original artwork submissions will be accepted through July 13, 2026. Artists of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to participate, with entries welcomed in a variety of mediums including painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, fiber arts, and other forms of creative expression. Each artist may submit up to three original works. Selected artwork will be displayed throughout the Ruby Valley and Madison Valley from July 20 through August 19, leading up to the Gallery of Hope event on August 22 in Ennis. Artists who choose to donate their work will have their pieces featured in the event's silent auction, with proceeds directly benefiting the Women's Resource Center and the individuals and families it serves throughout Southwest Montana. Since 1977, the Women's Resource Center has provided free and confidential services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Services include crisis intervention, advocacy, outreach and education, and emergency shelter for survivors and their families. Submission guidelines and entry forms are available at tinyurl.com/WRCGalleryofHope. For additional information about artwork submissions or event details, contact Resolute Roots Realty at 406-842-5973 or visit the Resolute Roots Realty or Women's Resource Center Facebook pages. Organizers encourage community members and artists alike to participate in creating an evening centered on hope, healing, and connection through the power of art.

DILLON — The Dillon Public Library is preparing to launch its 2026 Summer Reading Program with a kickoff event on Thursday, June 4, from 10 a.m. to noon at the library. This year's theme, "Unearth A Story," encourages readers of all ages to explore books, discover new interests, and participate in a variety of educational and entertaining programs throughout June and July. To accommodate the kickoff event, the library will be closed until 1 p.m. on June 4. In addition, the library's parking lot will be closed every Thursday morning through June and July until 1 p.m. to help ensure the safety of participants attending outdoor programs. Library officials also announced that all Thursday programs will be held at the Dillon Public Library this year rather than at the Beaverhead County Museum's Depot Theatre. The Summer Reading Program schedule includes: Teen Tuesdays (Ages 13-18) June and July 6 p.m. Locations vary Wednesday Matinees and Presentations 3 p.m. Beaverhead County Museum Depot Theatre Special Note: On June 17, Raptors will present two shows at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Thursday Programs 10 a.m. to noon Dillon Public Library The Summer Reading Program is open to participants of all ages and offers opportunities for children, teens, and adults to stay engaged in reading and learning throughout the summer. For more information about the program or upcoming events, contact the Dillon Public Library at 683-4544.

DILLON — The Montana Youth Challenge Academy (MYCA) and the Montana National Guard are mourning the loss of a cadet who passed away on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. According to a statement released by academy officials, the student was enrolled as a cadet at the Montana Youth Challenge Academy in Dillon. Authorities have confirmed that an investigation is ongoing, and no additional details have been released at this time. Brig. Gen. Trent Gibson, Adjutant General of Montana, expressed condolences to the cadet's family and the academy community. “As a father, my heart breaks for this young person's family and all who loved them,” Gibson said. “After 26 years with the Montana Youth Challenge Academy, including serving as the former director, I know firsthand how much the staff care for every cadet who walks through the door. This is a close community bound together by a shared commitment to helping young people. This loss is felt throughout the academy and across the Montana National Guard family.” MYCA Director Melissa Robbins said the academy's immediate focus is supporting those affected by the loss. “Right now, we are focused on caring for the cadets, staff, and families in every way possible,” Robbins said. “Our hearts are with the cadet’s family, friends, and fellow peers. We are grateful for the kindness and outpouring of support from our local community.” Officials are asking the public to respect the privacy of the cadet's family, fellow cadets, and academy staff during this difficult time. The Montana Youth Challenge Academy, located in Dillon, provides education, leadership development, and life skills training to at-risk youth from across Montana. No further information has been released as the investigation continues.

DILLON — Beaverhead County voters headed to the polls Tuesday for Montana's 2026 Primary Election, casting 2,332 accepted ballots to help determine party nominees for federal, state, and county offices. According to unofficial election results released by Beaverhead County, 3,995 ballots were issued and 2,332 were accepted, resulting in a turnout of approximately 58 percent. One of the most closely watched local races was the Republican primary for Beaverhead County Commissioner District #1. Mark Boka secured a decisive victory with 1,321 votes, defeating Austin Hoerning, who received 565 votes, and Crystal McKinney, who received 396 votes. In the Republican primary for U.S. Senate, Kurt Alme carried Beaverhead County with 1,549 votes. Lee Calhoun received 314 votes, while Charles Walking Child finished with 293 votes. The Republican race for Montana's First Congressional District saw Aaron Flint lead the field locally with 962 votes. Christi Jacobsen received 708 votes, Al "Doc" Olszewski received 413 votes, and Ray Curtis received 139 votes. Republican voters also selected Shannon Maness in the race for State Representative District 70, where Maness received 1,896 votes. Several county offices appeared on the Republican ballot without opposition. Stacey Reynolds received 2,045 votes for County Clerk and Recorder, David W. Wendt received 1,968 votes for Sheriff/Coroner, Sky Steven Jones received 1,948 votes for County Attorney, Dana Basile received 1,873 votes for County Superintendent of Schools, Mike English received 1,927 votes for Public Administrator, and Cathy Hucke received 2,054 votes for County Treasurer/Assessor. On the Democratic side, Reilly Neill led the U.S. Senate race in Beaverhead County with 231 votes, narrowly edging Alani Bankhead, who received 204 votes. Ryan Busse topped the Democratic field for Montana's First Congressional District with 199 votes, followed closely by Sam Forstag with 194 votes. Democrat Kobi Craddock received 493 votes in the race for State Representative District 70. In nonpartisan judicial races, Dan Wilson received 1,458 votes to Amy Eddy's 1,074 votes for Montana Supreme Court Justice No. 4. Randi Braddock received 2,406 votes in the race for Justice of the Peace. The results remain unofficial pending final canvassing and certification by election officials.

The Beaverhead Trails Coalition (BTC) is inviting the community to lace up their running shoes and celebrate National Trails Day on Saturday, June 6, with the annual Pronghorn Pursuit at the High Trails in Dillon. The event offers something for everyone, from competitive runners to families looking for a fun morning outdoors. Participants can choose from a challenging 15K, a 5K run/walk, or an approximately one-mile family-friendly loop designed for children and those who simply want to explore the trail system. In addition to the races, Concierge OT will be on hand with a rock-painting activity for kids. Participants can also keep an eye out for several Beaverhead Chamber of Commerce Treasures hidden along the trails. The treasures include blown-glass cowboy hats created by University of Montana Western students. All participants will be treated to donuts following the event. Registration is available online through RunSignUp, at Patagonia from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, June 5, or on race morning prior to the start of each event. Race Information 15K Cost: $55 Start Time: 8:00 a.m. 5K Cost: $45 Start Time: 8:45 a.m. 5K (Kids 10 and Under) Cost: $25 Start Time: 8:45 a.m. 1-Mile Family Loop Cost: $5 Start Time: 9:00 a.m. Organizers encourage community members of all ages and abilities to come out, enjoy the trails, and celebrate the outdoor recreation opportunities available in Beaverhead County.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers Wednesday, June 3 rd , 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 Minutes of May 20, 2026 Regular Meeting C. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS AND OTHER ACTION ITEMS 1. Update on 5 Year MT Tourism Development Grant (aka: Pilot Program) 2. WWC Professional Services Contract of August 11, 2023 for Information Purposes D. MAYORS REPORT 1. Accept Michael Klakken’s Letter of Resignation 2. Accept Kristina Abbey’s Letter of Resignation 3. Appoint Jim Mayne to the Zoning Board 4. Nexus CPA Group Audit Information Letter 5. Discuss/Approve Resolution #1507 Declaring an Infrastructure Deficient Area E. REPORTS OF OFFICERS AND BOARDS OF THE CITY 1. City Attorney – Walter Congdon 2. Planning Board - Raymond Graham, Tara Stevens 3. Zoning Commission – Joleen Schultz, Mike Brumbaugh 4. Board of Adjustments – Mary Jo O’Rourke, Don Deem 5. Director of Operations – Kristina Abbey 6. Police Department –Police Chief Joel Stewart a. Accept Incident Report of April 2026 7. Fire Department – Fire Chief Jay Epperson 8. City Court – Judge Bill Knox 9. Library Board –Russ Schwandt, Council Member; Kim Denny, Library Director 10. Tree Board - Jeremy Crawford, Council Member 11. Treasurer – Karen Kipp F. REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1. Ordinances & Facilities – Joleen Schultz, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Don Deem a. First Reading of Ordinance #492 Title 2 Administration & Personnel b. Change Sub-committee Members 2. Finance Committee – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Jeremy Crawford a. Approve the Minutes of May 28 th , 2026 Meeting i. Approve Fund Summary for Claims for May 2026 ii. Approve Claims by Vendor Report for May 2026 iii. Approve Mayor’s Report to the Finance Committee for May 2026 iv. Approve Budget vs. Actual Report for May 2026 v. Discuss/Approve Amending 2025-2026 Budget to Reverse Transfers From SIDs to Fund 4011 vi. Discuss/Approve Amortization Schedule for Cubs Field Loan From Water R&D for $64,000 at 4% annually for 5 years 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 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.

First responders were called to the scene of a two-vehicle crash Monday afternoon on Highway 91 North near Frying Pan Road. According to information from the scene, a white Ford pickup was leaving the storage units and attempting to enter the highway when it failed to yield to an oncoming Subaru traveling on Highway 91 North. The two vehicles collided, causing major damage to both. Emergency crews responded and assessed those involved. One person was transported by ambulance for medical treatment. The extent of their injuries has not been released. Both vehicles sustained significant damage and were towed from the scene. Traffic in the area was impacted while first responders worked to assist those involved, investigate the crash, and clear the roadway. The incident remains under investigation.

For the first time in program history, the Beaverhead County Beavers reached the State Class A-B Championship Game, giving the program its first-ever opportunity to compete for a State A-B baseball title. While the Beavers' championship dreams came up just short Saturday, the team capped off a historic season with a runner-up finish after falling 7-2 to the Bigfork Vikings in the State Class A-B Championship game. Despite outhitting Bigfork six hits to five, Beaverhead County was unable to overcome a big third inning by the Vikings. The Beavers struck first in the bottom of the second inning when Levi Stonebraker singled to drive in a run and give Beaverhead County an early 1-0 lead. Bigfork answered in the top of the third. Hayden Mayer delivered a three-run double to put the Vikings in front before Mason Lewis added an RBI single to extend the lead to 4-1. The Beavers continued to battle throughout the game but could not generate enough offense against Mayer, who earned the complete-game victory. The Bigfork pitcher allowed six hits and two runs, only one of them earned, over seven innings while striking out one and walking one. Cohen Hartman took the loss for Beaverhead County. The starter struck out five and allowed three runs on one hit over two and two-thirds innings. Garrett Tackett provided strong relief work, striking out eight batters over four and one-third innings while allowing four runs, only one of them earned. Stonebraker paced the Beavers offensively, going 2-for-3 with an RBI. Beaverhead County also put pressure on the Vikings on the bases, stealing four bases during the contest. For Bigfork, Mayer drove in four runs while going 2-for-4 at the plate. Mayer and Mason Lewis each collected two hits to lead the Vikings' offense. Although the season ended one game shy of a state championship, the Beavers accomplished something no Beaverhead County baseball team had done before—reaching the State Class A-B Finals and earning the program's first chance to play for a state title. The championship game appearance capped a remarkable season for Beaverhead County, which finished with a 19-1-1 record and established a new benchmark for the program. The Beavers not only qualified for their first state tournament but advanced all the way to the championship game, creating a season that will be remembered as one of the most successful in school history. While the final result was not the one the Beavers hoped for, their run to the State Class A-B Championship Game marked a milestone achievement for Beaverhead County baseball and set the stage for future success.

DILLON — Beaverhead County Commissioners have approved a resolution temporarily closing portions of the Clerk and Recorder's Office during the 2026 Federal Primary Election to accommodate election operations and ballot security. According to Resolution 2026-13, the back two research rooms within the Beaverhead County Clerk and Recorder/Election Office will be closed to the public on June 2, 2026, the day of the Federal Primary Election. The resolution states that while the primary election is not a state holiday and the Clerk and Recorder's Office must remain open for regular business, election staff require additional space to securely process ballots and ensure their protection throughout Election Day. County officials noted that election staff must continue processing ballots while maintaining security measures, prompting the temporary closure of the research rooms. The additional space will allow election workers to handle ballots and election materials in a secure environment. The resolution was approved by the Beaverhead County Board of Commissioners and signed on April 13, 2026. Chairman C. Thomas Rice and Commissioner John H. Jackson signed the document, which was attested by Beaverhead County Clerk and Recorder Stacey Reynolds. County officials emphasized that the closure applies only to the back two research rooms and is intended to support election operations during the June 2 primary election.

The Beaverhead County Beavers are headed to the State Class A Championship game after a thrilling 5-4 walk-off victory over Columbia Falls on Friday. With the game tied at 4-4 in the bottom of the seventh inning, Gage Curnow delivered the biggest hit of the season so far, lining a single to center field to score the winning run and send the Beavers into Saturday's championship game. Columbia Falls struck first in the top of the fourth inning. Jory Hill and Jaxson Cadwell each delivered RBI singles, while Lincoln Fisher added a sacrifice fly as the Wildcats built a 3-0 lead. The Beavers battled back throughout the game and finally tied things up in the bottom of the sixth inning. Garrett Tackett drove in a run with a single, and Sawyer Tackett followed with an RBI groundout to even the score. The Wildcats briefly regained the lead in the top of the seventh when Jett Pitts singled home a run to put Columbia Falls ahead 4-3. But Beaverhead County had one more rally left. In the bottom of the seventh, Levi Stonebraker drew a walk that forced in the tying run. Moments later, Curnow stepped to the plate and delivered the game-winning hit to center field, bringing home the winning run and setting off a celebration for the Beavers. Stonebraker earned the victory on the mound, allowing just one hit and no runs over one inning of relief while striking out one. Sawyer Tackett started the game for Beaverhead County, allowing three runs on one hit while striking out three over three innings. Will Hansen also contributed a scoreless inning out of the bullpen. Curnow led the Beavers offensively, going 2-for-3 at the plate and driving in the game-winning run. Trenton Moreni, Garrett Tackett, Sawyer Tackett, and Curnow each recorded an RBI. Beaverhead County showed patience at the plate, drawing six walks, with Cohen Hartman and Stonebraker collecting two apiece. The Beavers also turned a key double play defensively. For Columbia Falls, Jory Hill paced the offense with two hits in three at-bats. With the victory, Beaverhead County continues its historic season and will play for the State Class A Championship on Saturday at 11 AM. The Beavers enter the title game looking to cap off one of the most successful seasons in program history with a state championship.

The Dillon Volunteer Fire Department was called out Thursday evening to a fire on Sweetwater Road. According to information from the scene, the fire was burning within a haystack inside a feedlot. Firefighters from the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department, along with crews from the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), responded to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to surrounding areas. Crews spent several hours dousing the burning hay with water while working to eliminate flames and hot spots deep within the stack. Approximately 40 hay bales were involved in the fire. Hay fires can be particularly difficult to extinguish as heat can remain trapped within the bales long after visible flames have been knocked down. Firefighters worked through the evening to ensure the fire was fully contained and extinguished. According to fire officials, the cause of the fire was determined to be hot equipment combined with high temperatures, low humidity, and windy conditions. The fire was declared out and the scene was released back to the property owner at approximately 11:30 p.m. Thursday night. No injuries were reported, and firefighters successfully confined the fire to the haystack area.

The Dillon Public Library has announced details for its 2026 Summer Reading Program, which kicks off Thursday, June 4, with this year’s theme, “Unearth A Story.” The library will be closed until 1 p.m. on June 4 while staff hosts the Summer Reading Program kickoff event from 10 a.m. to noon at the library. Library officials also announced that the parking lot will be closed every Thursday morning through June and July until 1 p.m. to help keep participants safe during outdoor programs. This year, all Thursday programs will take place at the Dillon Public Library instead of the Beaverhead County Museum’s Depot Theatre grounds. Programs planned throughout the summer include Teen Tuesdays for ages 13-18 during June and July at 6 p.m. with locations varying each week. Wednesday matinees and presentations will be held at 3 p.m. at the Museum’s Depot Theatre. One special event scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, will feature Raptors with two presentations planned at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Thursday programs will continue weekly from 10 a.m. to noon at the Dillon Public Library. The Summer Reading Program is open to all ages. For additional information, contact the Dillon Public Library at 683-4544.

The Beaverhead County Beavers battled back from an early deficit Thursday to earn a 5-3 victory over the Whitefish Bulldogs. Whitefish struck first in the opening inning after Finn Ryan singled to drive in a run. The Bulldogs extended their lead in the third when Carter Godsey launched a home run to left field and Ryan added another RBI single to make it 3-0. The Beavers answered in the bottom of the fourth inning when Levi Stonebraker blasted a two-run homer to left field, cutting the deficit to one run. Beaverhead County tied the game in the fifth after Cohen Hartman doubled to center field to bring home the tying run. The Beavers took control in the sixth inning when a Whitefish error allowed the go-ahead run to score. Garrett Tackett then added an insurance run with a sacrifice fly to give Beaverhead County a 5-3 lead. Logan Fox earned the win on the mound for the Beavers, allowing five hits and three runs, two earned, over 6 1/3 innings while striking out five and walking four. Levi Stonebraker came in to collect the save. Stonebraker led Beaverhead County offensively with two RBIs while going 2-for-3 at the plate. Hartman also collected two hits for the Beavers, who turned one double play defensively. Finn Ryan paced Whitefish with two RBIs while going 2-for-3. The Bulldogs also turned one double play in the contest.

The University of Montana Western is proud to announce that 515 students have been named to the Dean’s List for the 2026 spring semester. To earn this distinction, students must be enrolled full-time (a minimum of 12 semester credits) and achieve a grade point average of 3.33 or higher. An asterisk (*) next to a name indicates that a student has received Dean’s List high honors. The listing below is divided into In-state and Out-of-State/International students, alphabetically by city and state. Dean’s List: Spring Semester 2026 For more information, please contact the UMW Registrar’s Office: reg_office@umwestern.edu.