Aaron Mitchell

This Tentative Final Report documents the Gallatin County Study Commission's comprehensive review of the county's local government structure and operations from 2024 to 2026. The key focus areas included assessing the existing form of government, gathering extensive public input through surveys and listening sessions, and comparing partisan versus nonpartisan election systems for county officials. The intended outcome is to provide voters with the necessary information to decide on a proposed ballot measure to transition county elections from a partisan to a nonpartisan basis, while affirming that the current government structure remains effective.

The Mental Health Local Advisory Council meeting included discussion on strategic planning, membership, accounting, and updates from the Central Service Area Authority and the Gallatin Behavior Health Coalition. The Gallatin County Commission is re-allocating funding to Rimrock due to the closure of Cedar Creek. Rimrock is looking to expand services across the state, focusing on substance use and co-occurring conditions, with a goal to increase access and serve more people by 2028. They offer various services, including counseling, case management, peer support, and psychiatric rehab services. The council also discussed media team updates, including website development and content management, with a motion to publish the website for review.

The Mental Health Local Advisory Council meeting included discussions on various topics such as the introduction of a new voting member, committee reports, and updates from the Central Service Area Authority and Gallatin Behavior Health Coalition. The council also discussed the roles of the County and the LAC, focusing on the County's administrative role and the advisory input provided to the state. A media team presentation showcased a draft website with reorganized information and updates, including pages for resources, news, events, and community interaction. Announcements were made regarding community events, veteran services, mindfulness projects, and the funding of the Mobile Crisis program.

The meeting included public comments from Godfrey Saunders, who emphasized the critical need for mental health support in the community, and Yvonne, who suggested LAC participation in the walk out of darkness for suicide prevention. Committee reports covered updates from the Central Service Area Authority regarding webinars and conferences, the Gallatin Behavior Health Coalition on the crisis diversion grant and potential use of the old warming center, and the Media Committee on website development. Unfinished business included a follow-up conversation on Lighthouse Ranch with Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, addressing concerns about employees and financial viability. The LAC continued support of YBGR operating Lighthouse Ranch. New business regarding new member expectations and Steve Nash and Anthea George was tabled.

This document is a Community Needs Assessment conducted by the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) to identify the underlying causes and conditions of poverty within its service area, serving as the initial phase for its strategic plan development. The assessment synthesizes survey data, customer information, and census estimates to provide an overview of critical community and individual needs across Gallatin, Park, and Meagher counties. Key focus areas include housing affordability, access to mental healthcare, childcare availability, food and grocery costs, healthcare affordability and accessibility, transportation, sense of community, senior support, and workforce development. The plan aims to inform tailored programs, partnerships, and policies to address these interconnected challenges and foster a community where all residents can achieve stability and thrive.