Kalispell Seeks Public Input on Land Use Plan Through Week-Long Drop-In Events

KALISPELL — The City of Kalispell is bringing its draft Land Use Plan directly to residents this week, scheduling eight drop-in events across different venues to gather public feedback on how the city should manage growth over the next 20 years.

The Development Services Department has organized the community sessions to run from Tuesday through Thursday, meeting residents at locations ranging from the Kalispell Center Mall to Black Rifle Coffee Company, Depot Park, and even during the Summer Concert Series.

“Community input is essential,” according to city officials, who describe the events as the second phase of public engagement efforts to update Kalispell’s Land Use Plan in response to new state requirements under the Montana Land Use and Planning Act.

The planning process aims to position Kalispell to manage growth while maintaining quality of life, coordinating updates to the city’s Growth Policy, utility facility plans, and development regulations to guide community development and infrastructure over the next two decades.

This Week’s Schedule

Tuesday, July 8:

• Kalispell Center Mall, 12-2 p.m., 20 N Main Street
• City Hall Lobby, 4-6 p.m., 201 1st Avenue East
• Planning Commission Meeting, 6-8 p.m., City Hall

Wednesday, July 9:

• Black Rifle Coffee Company, 7:30-9 a.m., 305 2nd Avenue West
• Depot Park, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., 15 Depot Park
• Summer Concert Series, 6-8 p.m., Depot Park

Thursday, July 10:

• Senior Center, 12-2 p.m., 111 S Main Street
• Bias Brewing, 6-8 p.m., 412 S Main Street

The varied schedule and locations reflect the city’s effort to reach different demographics and accommodate various schedules, from early morning coffee meetings to evening entertainment events.

Broader Planning Context

The land use planning process represents one of several comprehensive planning efforts currently underway in Kalispell. The city is also updating its Parks and Recreation Master Plan, with public engagement events scheduled through early 2026.

The current land use plan update responds specifically to new state requirements, ensuring the city’s growth management policies align with the Montana Land Use and Planning Act. This coordinated effort includes updates to multiple policy documents that will guide development decisions for the next 20 years.

Alternative Participation

Residents unable to attend the drop-in events can participate online at EngageKalispell.com, where they can view draft materials and share feedback digitally.

For additional information, contact Assistant Development Services Director P.J. Sorensen at 406-758-7732 or psorensen@kalispell.com.