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  • Did They Kill The Kill Floor?

    Dillon, MT — The Dillon City Council convened Wednesday night for its regular monthly meeting, drawing a packed chamber and ongoing tensions that have characterized recent gatherings.   Over the past few weeks, community members—including homeowners and business owners—have voiced concerns and sought resolutions on various issues, particularly regarding livestock slaughter regulations. Last night’s meeting was no different, marked by heated debate over city policies and recent correspondence from the state.   Key among the issues was a letter sent by the Montana Department of Agriculture, instructing Beaverhead Meats to cease all livestock slaughter at their facility at 620 N. Montana Street. The department clarified that their license only permitted slaughter in the field, not at the facility. In response, the city’s director of operations and city attorney issued a letter to Beaverhead Meats, reiterating that keeping livestock at their location was also prohibited.   However, questions arose over the phrasing and recipients of this letter. During a previous special meeting, Councilwoman Orourke and Councilwoman Schultz requested the letter be amended to explicitly state “no slaughtering” and to include the owner, Mike McGinley, his son David, and the building owner—all of whom were not fully addressed in the original correspondence. The existing letter only named David McGinley, prompting further debate.   Adding to the controversy, three council members submitted a request to include an agenda item—to draft and send a cease-and-desist letter to halt animal slaughtering at the facility. The mayor argued that this matter was already addressed and should not be on the agenda. Councilwoman Orourke contended that, according to council rules, the request met the criteria to be included. A vote on the issue ended in a 4-4 tie, leaving the mayor to decide. Recognizing the oversight, the mayor admitted it was likely a mistake and allowed for discussion, emphasizing that Beaverhead Meats’ operations did not directly affect his personal life.   The meeting also covered the approval of minutes from July 2nd and a special session. Councilwoman Orourke expressed dissatisfaction with the minutes’ accuracy, claiming that previous records misrepresented the council’s stance on the kill floor. The council agreed to postpone approval pending corrected transcripts, citing concerns over proper documentation.   Adding to the complexity, discussions turned to the enforcement of city ordinances related to livestock slaughter. The director of operations explained that enforcement is limited without permits or complaints, and she was uninformed about certain issues until a Facebook post brought them to light. She criticized the city council for leaving her in the dark regarding complaints dating back four years. Many council members, however, cited historical laws dating back to 1982 that prohibit animal slaughter within city limits.   Debate also ensued over recent incidents involving animals being kept in trailers overnight to be slaughtered outside city boundaries. The director clarified that any citations for such activities would depend on specific violations. After nearly an hour of discussion, the city attorney announced he would send official cease-and-desist letters via certified mail to the involved parties. Between this letter, the states letter, and the owners stating they are pursuing other options many hope the kill floor in city limits is not going to happen and can be put to rest.   As the meeting concluded, questions about transparency and proper governance remain. The recent proceedings highlight serious procedural flaws, including the omission of agenda items, restrictions on public comment, and potential violations of open meeting laws. The takeaway from last night’s meeting raises additional concerns, particularly regarding adherence to open public meeting laws. Not allowing public comment might have broken these laws, and the mayor needs to pay closer attention to the requests made by the city council, ensuring that items they ask to be placed on the agenda are included. When items are omitted, it prevents meaningful discussion of those topics. Transcripts also need to be better documented and more accurately worded to truly reflect the meetings. Currently, the city hall appears to operate more like a frat house than a professional city government—characterized by a chummy atmosphere, past issues such as growing pot on city property, and a lack of accountability. This is your city, funded by your taxes. Proper governance can only be achieved if the city’s bylaws are followed, the council, the voice of the people—is allowed to discuss topics that are correctly placed on the agenda, and citizens are granted their right to participate. As questions about transparency and accountability continue, the community’s trust and the integrity of local government are at stake.

  • Fishing Restrictions Take Effect Thursday On Several Rivers In Southwest Montana

    HELENA – Hoot-owl restrictions take effect Thursday at 2 p.m. on the following rivers:   Big Hole River on the entire river downstream of Saginaw Bridge on Skinner Meadows Road. This restriction expands the hoot-owl to the entire length of the Big Hole.   East Gallatin River from Penwell Bridge Road to the confluence with the West Gallatin River at Nixon Bridge near Manhattan.  Gallatin River from Amsterdam Road to the confluence with the Missouri River.  Lower Shields River from Brackett Creek Road to the confluence with the Yellowstone River.  Hoot-owl restrictions prohibit fishing from 2 p.m. to midnight each day. These restrictions will stay in effect until conditions improve.      A full angling closure takes effect at 12 a.m. Thursday on the Madison River near West Yellowstone:  Madison River upstream of Hebgen Reservoir. This angling closure replaces an existing hoot-owl angling restriction to align with a similar closure on the Madison River within Yellowstone National Park due to exceptionally high water temperatures and low flows.   To check for other restrictions, click here .     FWP's drought policy provides for angling restrictions when flows drop below critical levels for fish, when water quality is diminished or when maximum daily water temperatures reach at least 73 degrees for three consecutive days. Water temperatures of 77 degrees or more can be lethal to trout.      These restrictions are designed to protect fish that become more susceptible to disease and mortality when water temperatures warm. Restricting angling to only cool morning hours can help reduce catch-and-release mortality.      Catch-and-release anglers can reduce stress on fish by getting them to the net or in hand quickly, keeping them in the water and reviving them prior to releasing them back into the river.       As the summer warms, Montana offers many other angling options with better conditions for fish, including larger lakes or reservoirs, or higher elevation lakes and streams.     Along with monitoring stream temperatures, FWP also monitors stream flows and in some streams holds instream flow water rights. FWP’s water program can issue a call on junior water users, when appropriate, to contribute to stream flows through the late summer and early fall. For more information on FWP water rights, click  here .

  • Montana Fifth Judicial Court Report

    MONTANA FIFTH JUDICAL DISTRICT BEAVERHEAD COUNTY JULY 15, 2025 COURT REPORT NAME CHARGE DISPOSITION Glen Rountree DUI Plea Not Guilty Initial Appearance Driving Violations Bond None posted Status Attorney to be Assigned Robert Sayler Elder Plea None Initial Appearance Exploitation Bond None Posted Status Attorney to be Assigned

  • Beaverhead Ambulances Services Special District Meeting Notice

    BEAVERHEAD AMBULANCE SERVICES SPECIAL DISTRICT AGENDA Friday, July 18, 2025 10:00 AM Beaverhead County Courthouse - Commissioners’ Room A. Call to Order B. a. Review and approve minutes of April 18, 2025, meeting b. Review and approve Treasurer’s Report C. Announcements D. Old Business a. Report on Beaverhead EMS regarding renewing the ambulance district and the process for receiving future tax revenues E. New Business a. Next meeting will be October 17, 2025, at 10:00 in the Beaverhead County courthouse. b. Renewal of the Beaverhead Ambulance Services Special District process. c. Certificates of Election by Acclamation for Mike Mooney and Sue Hansen F. Public comment - Public comment on items of significant public interest not on the Agenda and within the jurisdiction of the Beaverhead Ambulance Services Special District Board.

  • Ordinances & Facilities Meeting Notice

    125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana ORDINANCES & FACILITIES COMMITTEE MEETING ~ Agenda ~ Thursday, July 17th, 2025 5:00 P.M.   1.            Call Meeting to Order 2.            Discuss/Recommend Changes to Title 6.04 Vicious Animals 3.            Discuss/Recommend Rabies Quarantine Process 4.            Public Comment On Items Of Significant Public Interest Not On The Agenda And Within The Jurisdiction Of The City 5.            Adjourn   Committee Members: Bill Shafer, Chair Joleen Schultz Mary Jo O’Rourke

  • City Council Meeting Notice

    125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers Wednesday, July 16th, 2025 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 from July 2, 2025 Regular City Council Meeting 2.         Accept Transcript from July 2, 2025 Public Hearing on the Acceptance of North Street 3.         Approve Minutes from July 9, 2025 Special City Council Meeting   C.        PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS               1.         Department of Livestock’s Response to Beaverhead Meats and Letter from the Director of Operations. 2.         League Conference Registration 3.         Discuss Election   D.        MAYOR’S REPORT 1.         Resolution #1489  Establishing Costs of the Proposed Schedule of Projects, Repairs, and Improvements of Street Maintenance District For FY 2025-2026   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 the May 27 th , 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes             b.         Accept the June 24 th , 2025 Public Hearing Transcript  3.         Board of Adjustments - Diane Armstrong, Joleen Schultz                         a.         Accept May 22 nd , 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes 4.         Director of Operations – Kristina Abbey 5.         Police Department – Police Chief Jeremy Alvarez                         a.         Accept Incident Report for June 2025 6.         Fire Department -- Fire Chief BJ Klose                         a.         Accept June, 2025 Activity Report                         b.         Approve City Clerk Report for Fire Hall for June, 2025                         c.         Approve Budget vs. Expenditures Report for Fire Hall for June, 2025 7.         City Court – Judge Bill Knox                         a.         Accept the Court Report for June 2025 8.         Library Board - Diane Armstrong, Council Member; Kim Denny, Library Director               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                         a.         Approve the Minutes from July 9, 2025 Special Open Spaces Meeting                                                 i.  Approve Installation of Playground Grass in Jaycee Park 5.         Public Works – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Anneliese Ripley, Raymond Graham                         a.         Approve the Minutes from the July 9, 2025 Regular Committee Meeting                         b.         First Reading Ordinance #485 – Public Works   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.

  • Open Spaces Meeting Notice

    125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana  59725 OPEN SPACES COMMITTEE MEETING Wednesday, July 16th, 2025 4:00 P.M.   AGENDA     1.                  Call To Order 2.         Discuss/Recommend Vigilante Park Old Pump House Removal and Cleanup 3.         Discuss/Recommend Changes to Title 11.02.040 4.         Public Comment on Items Of Significant Public Interest Not On The Agenda And Within The Jurisdiction Of The City 5.         Adjournment   Committee Members: Raymond Graham, Chairperson Anneliese Ripley Joleen Schultz

  • Annual Virginia City Car Show (Picture Gallery)

    The Virginia City Car Show has become a beloved tradition, drawing car enthusiasts from across the region. This year’s record turnout is a testament to the growing popularity of the event and the community’s passion for preserving automotive history. With cars coming from all around participants got to participate in the show by helping pick the peoples choice award. People's Choice- 1952 Buick Roadmaster Chevy Division- 1950 Chevrolet Sedan Delivery Ford Division- 1957 Ford Fairlane Dodge Division- 1957 Dodge Truck

  • Dillon Public Library programs 7/15-7/17

    Tuesday July 15, 2025 - 1 p.m. - Magician Kyle Groves will perform his Colorful Magic at the Museum's Depot Theatre on Montana street. The theatre can only hold 119 people so it will be first come, first serve. TEEN Tuesday July 15, 2025 - 6 p.m. Bullseye Bash at Badger Archery - Teens aged 13 to 18 will get a chance to learn some archery skills from the staff of Badger Archery (right across the street from the library on Glendale street). All teens attending will receive a $5.00 Dairy Queen gift card and one teen will win a $25.00 gift card from Badger Archery. Waivers available at the library and must be signed by parent/guardian. Wednesday's FREE movie is MOANA 2 - July 16 th  - 3 p.m. at the Museum's Depot Theatre on Montana street. NO food is allowed in the theatre. Thursday's Theme: Colorful Nature - July 17th - 10 a.m. to Noon at the Museum's Depot Theatre on Montana street. Nao's Farewell party! Open House on July 17 th  -2 p.m. to 4 p.m.-Nao will be returning to Japan after 2 years of bringing Japanese Culture to Dillon and many other places. Please stop by to visit and say good bye to Nao Fukumoto. Then at 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Nao will have Japanese Culture program as her final goodbye to the community. Upcoming: July 19-20 - Librarians will be at Bannack Days July 21 last day to turn your reading times in July 24 Summer Reading Program's FINALE 10 a.m. to Noon August 2 nd  - Computer class at 11:30 September 17 - Women's Financial Literacy at 5:30 p.m.

  • Beaverhead Conservation District Meeting Notice

    MEETING NOTICE Beaverhead Conservation District NRCS Office 420 Barrett St July 17th, 2025, 6:00 pm   The meeting will be in-person, but we can open a conference call line if anyone is interested, please let us know by noon the day of the meeting, if you would like to call into the meeting. If you would like to submit written comment, please do so by noon the day of the meeting to BeaverheadCD@gmail.com or in person at 420 Barrett St. • Public Hearing: Permissive Mill Levy Health Insurance Benefits • Call meeting to order • Approval of June 19th, 2025 minutes • Financial report • Partner Reports: NRCS, SMSP, Extension, Range Committee • Education and Outreach Report • Old 310 business o BCD 2418 Red Rock Springs Ranch, Kidd Creek/Borrow Ditch, Finish Inspection • New 310 Business o BCD 2541 Violation, Boat Ramp, Big Hole River o BCD 2542 Violation, Irrigation Pipe buried in the road, Alder Creek Administrator’s Report o BCD 2543 Southern Montana Telephone, Lime Gulch, Utilities Boring o BCD 2544 Southern Montana Telephone, Farlin Gulch 1, Utilities Boring o BCD 2545 Southern Montana Telephone, Farlin Gulch 2, Utilities Boring o BCD 2546 Southern Montana Telephone, Birch Creek 1, Utilities Boring o BCD 2547 Southern Montana Telephone, Birch Creek 2, Utilities Boring o BCD 2548 Southern Montana Telephone, Meyers Gulch, Utilities Boring o BCD 2549 Southern Montana Telephone, Birch Creek 3, Utilities Boring o BCD 2550 Joe Hartley Water Commissioner, Rattlesnake Creek, cleanout • Beaverhead Watershed Committee Grant Reports • Old Business • New Business o DNRC report- Catey Bauer • Upcoming Events o Next meeting date – August 21st 6pm • Public Comment • Adjournment **Please note the deadline for 310 permits is the 2nd Thursday of the month. Permits will be reviewed at the meeting on the third Thursday. Any work in streams or on streambanks requires a 310 permit per Montana Law. This includes emergency work for flood control, CLEANING OUT HEADGATES THAT ARE FED BY STREAMS, etc. If you have questions, please call 683-3802.

  • Helena Reps Sweep Dillon Cubs In Doubleheader Dominance (Photo Galley)

    July 12  – The Helena Reps proved too much for the Dillon Cubs on Saturday, sweeping the doubleheader with victories of 6-2 and 14-8. The Reps showcased their offensive firepower and strong pitching across both games, while the Cubs struggled to keep pace despite some standout individual performances. Game 1: Helena Reps Take Control Early, Win 6-2 In the first game of the day, the Helena Reps set the tone early, scoring two runs in the top of the first inning. Brady Perlinski singled to right field, and Macrae Mongoven walked, each driving in a run to give the Reps a quick lead. The Reps extended their advantage in the third inning with a series of clutch hits. Matthew Feller doubled, Grant Bahnmiller singled, and Tyler Kaiser doubled, helping Helena build a comfortable lead. Pitching Dominance River Evans was the star on the mound for Helena Reps, earning the win with a stellar performance. Evans allowed eight hits and two runs (one earned) over six innings, striking out eight batters and walking none. His ability to keep the Dillon lineup in check was key to the Reps’ victory. Ben Peacock took the loss for the Dillon Cubs, surrendering six runs on eight hits over six innings while striking out three and walking three. Bright Spots for Dillon Trenton Moreni and Cohen Hartman provided some highlights for the Cubs, each collecting two hits and driving in a run. The duo was particularly effective hitting back-to-back in the lineup, but the Cubs couldn’t generate enough offense to mount a comeback. Helena’s Offensive Leaders Matthew Feller, batting ninth for Helena Reps, was a standout performer, going 3-for-3 and driving in two runs. Brady Perlinski and Grant Bahnmiller also contributed with multiple hits, showcasing the depth of the Reps’ lineup. Game 2: Helena Reps Explode for 14 Runs in High-Scoring Affair The second game saw the Helena Reps continue their offensive onslaught, scoring early and often in a 14-8 victory. Despite a heroic performance from Cohen Hartman, who went 4-for-4 at the plate, the Cubs couldn’t keep up with the Reps’ relentless attack. Helena’s Early Offensive Surge The Reps scored three runs in the first inning, with Brayden Spurzem doubling down the right field line, Deagan Solan singling to center field, and Kash Walker grounding out, each driving in a run. They added five more runs in the second inning, highlighted by Spurzem’s two-run double and RBI singles from Pierce Sublette and Solan. The Reps continued to pile on in the third inning, scoring four more runs on a fielder’s choice by Spurzem and RBI singles from Sublette and Walker. Cohen Hartman’s Heroics Cohen Hartman was a bright spot for the Dillon Cubs, collecting four hits in four at-bats. Hartman tripled in the fourth inning, doubled in the sixth, and singled in both the first and third innings. Jase Alvarez also contributed with three hits in four at-bats, but the Cubs’ offense couldn’t match the Reps’ firepower. Pitching Struggles Cooper Clarke started on the mound for the Dillon Cubs but struggled to contain the Reps’ offense. Clarke surrendered six hits and 10 runs over two innings, walking six batters and striking out one. Aiden Ferguson came on in relief and pitched five innings, allowing seven hits and four runs while striking out one and walking one. For Helena Reps, Jake Willcut started and went the distance, pitching seven innings and giving up 10 hits and eight runs (four earned). Despite the Cubs’ offensive efforts, Willcut managed to strike out two and walk four, earning the win. Helena’s Offensive Leaders Helena’s offense was led by Brayden Spurzem, Deagan Solan, and Pierce Sublette, each of whom collected three hits. Spurzem and Kash Walker were particularly impactful, each driving in four runs. The Reps also showed patience at the plate, drawing seven walks as a team, with Grant Bahnmiller leading the way with three free passes. Despite the tough losses, the Dillon Cubs showed flashes of potential, particularly from their top hitters like Cohen Hartman, Trenton Moreni, and Jase Alvarez. However, they’ll need to tighten up their pitching and capitalize on scoring opportunities if they hope to turn things around in their next game.

  • Lima Volunteer Fire Department Responds To Fire Caused By Arcing Transformer

    July 10, 2025  – The Lima Volunteer Fire Department sprang into action Thursday evening after receiving a call about a fire caused by an arcing transformer. The witness, saw flames spread from the transformer pole to a nearby structure, prompting concerns about a large propane tank in the vicinity. First responders arrived swiftly and managed to contain the fire, preventing it from spreading further. Thanks to their quick actions, the fire was limited to the pole and the adjacent structure, avoiding potential disaster. PC Beaverhead County Sheriff PC Beaverhead County Sheriff PC Beaverhead County Sheriff

  • D.V.F.D. Call Log For June

    DVFD responded to 20  calls for service during the month of June 2025.      6-01                 S Pacific St                             Burning odor 6-02                 Hwy 91 S                                Smoke Investigation 6-04                 I-15 MM 70                            MVA 6-06                 Hwy 91 S                                Gas Odor 6-09                 Freeman Ln                             Gas Line Broke 6-14                 Orr & Rife                              Electrical burn 6-14                 Swenson Way                         Grass Fire 6-15                 Hwy 91 N                               Grass Fire 6-16                 I-15 MM 80                            MVA 6-16                 I-15 MM 83                            MVA 6-20                 Highland St                             Gas Line Cut 6-20                 Anderson Ln & Hwy 41         MVA 6-20                 N Interchange                         Hydro-Spill 6-21                 I-15 MM 85                            Motorcycle Acc 6-23                 Hwy 91 N                               MVA 6-24                 I-15 MM 61                            MVA 6-26                 Dakota St                                Gas Odor 6-26                 I-15 MM 59                            MVA 6-29                 Hwy 91 & Burma Rd             Gras fire 6-30                 2 S Pacific                               Explosive detonation-standby     June monthly training included continued FF-1 training. Members trained with the Grasshopper Valley Fire Department on progressive hose lay. Assist with the Demolition Derby, Several members attended classes at Montana DNRC Wildland Firefighting Training Academy here in Dillon at UMW. We tested and interviewed new DVFD FF applicants.   Please be extra careful when you are out & about as it is wildfire season & the fuels are extremely dry.

  • Beaverhead Fire District Meeting Notice

    Beaverhead Fire Dist. 405 N. Idaho St Dillon MTMEETING NOTICE TUESDAY July 15th, 2025 5:00 PM   AGENDA:   I.                   Call to order II.                Approval of Minutes from 6-17-2025 meeting         Public Comment III.              Approval of Warrants         Public Comment IV.             Old Business Discuss/ Recommend Volunteer Handbook                      Public Comment V.                New Business          Public Comment VI.             Chiefs Report                      Public Comment VII.          Public comment on subjects under the jurisdiction of Beaverhead Fire District #2 that is not on the agenda. VIII.       Adjournment

  • Dillon City Council Holds Special Meeting to Address Beaverhead Meats Kill Floor Proposal

    July 09, 2025 – The Dillon City Council convened a special meeting on Wednesday, July 9th, to discuss the controversial proposal for a kill floor at Beaverhead Meats. The meeting, which drew a large crowd of concerned citizens, highlighted issues of transparency, enforcement of city codes, and the handling of permits, leaving many questions unanswered. The meeting began with Mayor McGinley stating that neither the Chief of Police nor the City Attorney had received any permits from Beaverhead Meats regarding the proposed kill floor. However, Councilwoman O’Rourke quickly pointed out discrepancies in the information provided to the Council. She revealed that the City Attorney had spent several hours reviewing the legality of a slaughterhouse floor in Dillon and had even toured the proposed site, costing the city thousands of dollars. O’Rourke expressed frustration, accusing the administration of misleading both the Council and the public. “It seems like there’s been some sidelining of this issue in hopes that people would just let it go,” O’Rourke said. She also noted that a letter from the Best Western Paradise Inn, which should have been included in the meeting packet, was missing. This omission became a recurring theme throughout the evening, as other missing documents and correspondence were brought up. Legalities and Enforcement Chief of Police Alvarez addressed the legalities of the situation, explaining that if the city wants to stop the killing of animals at Beaverhead Meats—which has been occurring for the past 15 years in violation of city code—it would be up to the city to issue an order. The City Attorney provided a letter outlining the steps necessary to enforce this, but it ultimately falls on the Director of Operations to ensure that Beaverhead Meats operates within city codes and ordinances. Mayor McGinley stated that the Director of Operations, in collaboration with the City Attorney, is drafting a cease-and-desist letter to halt the killing of animals at the facility. However, this raised further questions from Council members and citizens alike. Many were baffled as to why the city has allowed the practice to continue for 15 years, especially after Beaverhead Meats lost a lawsuit against the city over the same issue in the past. Councilman Deem pointed out that a single formal written complaint could trigger an investigation by the Director of Operations, potentially shutting down the operation. However, despite residents claiming to have filed complaints, no action has been taken. Deem also referenced a video showing the slaughter of animals at the facility, which is on record with David McGinley, a representative of Beaverhead Meats. McGinley himself appeared at the meeting, stating that the company had received a citation from the state prohibiting them from slaughtering animals. Permitting and Transparency Concerns The meeting also shed light on broader issues surrounding the city’s permitting process. Several Council members expressed frustration over the Director of Operations’ apparent inconsistency in enforcing building permits. For example, a local bike repair store was required to obtain a change-of-use permit when converting an office space, while Beaverhead Meats was reportedly told they did not need one for converting a taxidermy studio into a kill floor. This selective enforcement has raised eyebrows, with many questioning whether the city is applying its codes fairly. Council’s Role and Frustrations The Dillon City Charter grants the Council significant authority, making them the primary decision-making body for the city. However, several Council members voiced frustration over issues being sidestepped and decisions being made without their input. The lack of transparency from the Mayor and Director of Operations has left the Council feeling sidelined and unable to fulfill their role as the voice of the community. Community Concerns The meeting concluded with citizens voicing their concerns not only about the proposed kill floor but also about the lack of transparency and accountability in city government. Many expressed frustrations over the handling of the situation behind closed doors and the seemingly selective enforcement of city codes. As the city moves forward, the next few weeks will be critical in determining how the Council and administration address the Beaverhead Meats issue. The community will be watching closely to see if the city can restore trust and ensure that all businesses are held to the same standards. For now, the meeting has left more questions than answers, with residents and Council members alike calling for greater transparency and accountability from the Mayor and Director of Operations. The Dillon community remains united in its demand for clarity and fairness in the handling of this and other city matters. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.

  • Community Gathers For Popular 'Dinner In The Park' Series, Featuring Zach Nytomt

    Downtown Dillon came alive with the sounds of country music and the aroma of delicious food as one of the most anticipated summer series, "Dinner in the Park," kicked off tonight. This beloved event, which takes place every Thursday night in July, returned with a vibrant performance by musician Zach Nytomt. Attendees had the opportunity to enjoy a hearty meal of brisket and beans, with proceeds benefiting the B.A.S.S. Meals on Wheels Program. Local generosity was on full display as businesses contributed pasta salad, watermelon, and ice cream to round out the meal. Zach Nytomt, a talented country artist from Argyle, Texas, captivated the audience with his music. His latest album, New York to Montana , has been well-received and has even inspired a book by Dan Sullivan, also titled New York to Montana , offering fans another medium through which to appreciate Nytomt's work. As the evening continues, there’s still time to enjoy the free, lively performance at Jaycee Park. "Music in the Park" offers a perfect summer evening experience for those looking to unwind with great music and a sense of community. A large crowd enjoying Dinner in the Park at Jaycee Park

  • Montana Western Announces 2025–26 Bank Of Commerce Performing Arts Series

    The Fine Arts Department of the University of Montana Western is pleased to announce the 2025–26 Performing Arts Series, sponsored by the Bank of Commerce. This year’s season features a dynamic Mainstage lineup beginning November 4 and a Youth Season starting September 27. The Bank of Commerce Performing Arts Series brings bold, inspiring, and entertaining theater to the University of Montana Western and the Dillon community. With a mission rooted in creativity and connection, the series offers students and young people a professional stage to express themselves, explore the power of live performance, and spark joy through storytelling. We invite you to be part of the experience. Join us for a season of unforgettable performances. Thank you for supporting the vibrant spirit of local theater. 2025–26 Bank of Commerce Performing Arts Series Schedule Mainstage Season UMW Drama Club’s Sunday Night Improv : First Sunday of every block (Aug 24, Sep 21, Oct 19, Nov 16, Jan 18, Feb 15, Mar 22, Apr 19) — Rated R The Laramie Project : November 3 & 4, 2025 — Beier Auditorium — Rated PG-13 The Laramie Project: Ten Years Later : December 3 & 4, 2025 — Beier Auditorium — Rated PG-13 The Country Wife: A Modernized Staged Reading : February 13, 2026 — Small Auditorium — Rated R The Play That Goes Wrong : April 16 to May 2, 2026 — Beier Auditorium — Rated PG Youth Season Missoula Children’s Theatre’s Red Riding Hood : September 27, 2025 — Beier Auditorium — Rated G Montana Repertory Theatre’s Jabberdoggy: And Other Made-Up Words : October 24, 2025 — Beier Auditorium — Rated G Shakespeare in the Schools’ Richard III : December 10, 2025 — Beier Auditorium — Rated PG Missoula Children’s Theatre’s The Secret Garden : January 31, 2026 — Beier Auditorium — Rated G Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka : June 12 to 14, 2026 — Beier Auditorium — Rated G Season Passes Season passes are now on sale for the 2025–26 season, with flexible options for every audience. Choose from a Mainstage Season Pass, Youth Season Pass, or an All Show Pass that includes every performance of the year. Passes are priced at $56 for regular adults, $42 for seniors, military members, and youth, and $35 for UMW faculty and staff. The All Show Pass is available for $112 (regular), $84 (discount), and $70 (UMW faculty/staff).  UMW faculty and staff may purchase passes at their discounted rate for immediate family members. Passes can be purchased online or at the box office during the fall semester and grant unlimited admission to all included performances throughout the season. For more information or to purchase a pass, visit  https://www.umwestern.edu/bank-of-commerce-performing-arts-series/box-office/ . Support UMW Theater To keep ticket prices accessible, UMW theater productions rely on generous donor support for the majority of operating costs. To make a tax-deductible donation, visit the  UMW Foundation Donation Page . Your support helps keep the arts thriving in our community. Thank you! For more information on all the shows in this year’s series, please visit  https://www.umwestern.edu/bank-of-commerce-performing-arts-series/  or contact Assistant Professor of Theatre, Stephen Seder at stephen.seder@umwestern.edu or 406-683-7038.

  • Planning Board Meeting Notice

    125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana Monday, July 14th, 2025 7:00 p.m. City Council Chambers Planning Board Meeting AGENDA   A.   Call Meeting to Order B.   Review and Approval of June 12 th , 2025 Meeting Minutes C.    Current Growth Policy Update 1.        Review/Discuss Draft Goals & Objectives Presented by WWC 2.        Review AI Analysis and Discuss Planning Board Members Suggested Goals & Objectives D.  Update on Downtown Master Plan D.   Update on County Planning Board Activities E.    Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the Planning Board. F.    Adjournment               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 .     Planning Board Members:       Don Hand, Bill Shafer, Raymond Graham, Dan Nye, Ed Mooney, Michael Saunders, Maria Emmer-Aanes

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