Gary Burton

The public hearing focused on the 2026 Community Needs Assessment. Key discussion topics included the purpose of the assessment, an overview of available grant programs such as CDBG, HOME, and Housing Trust Fund, and the process for seeking CDBG sponsorship. Public comments highlighted the ongoing housing crisis, the need for emergency sheltering and low-barrier shelters, the Helena Housing Authority's plan to reposition Public Housing from Section 9 to Section 8 requiring significant rehabilitation, and the request by Montana Legal Services Association to change restrictions to allow CDBG funding for civil legal aid services to prevent evictions. Other entities discussed needs related to supportive housing, home sharing programs, facility renovations (YWCA), and improvements to public infrastructure and facilities within Lewis and Clark County.

The agenda for the meeting included a Pledge of Allegiance, introductions, and various reports from the Sheriff, Public Works, Forest Service, and Public Health departments. Other business was scheduled, along with a placeholder for the next meeting date. A session was reserved for public comment on matters within the Commission's jurisdiction not listed on the main agenda. The document also notes the cancellation of the Augusta Government Day due to inclement weather.

The agenda items for this session included the Pledge of Allegiance, general introductions, and various reports from the Sheriff's Department, Community Council, Forest Service, Public Works, and Public Health. Other business encompassed the introduction of Extension Office staff member Jane Wolery and a presentation on Bear Education and Information by Jamie Jonkel of FWP. The meeting also reserved time for public comment on matters under the jurisdiction of the Commission.

The meeting commenced with the reading of the mission statement for the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, Citizen's Advisory Committee, and Department of Criminal Justice Services, which focuses on improving citizen safety and ensuring equitable treatment within the justice system. The agenda was amended to include discussion and approval of three new member applicants. Action was taken to approve two new subcommittees: the 'public comment processing committee' (originally proposed as the Federal Policing subcommittee) and an 'education subcommittee,' although the latter's proposal was tabled pending further development of its purpose and structure. Updates were provided on the APPR Pathways to Pretrial Advancement Technical Assistance and the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) bylaw changes concerning CAC membership. Three new members were unanimously approved for CAC membership.

The agenda for the public meeting included the Pledge of Allegiance and a Proclamation. Key action items involved a request for Lewis and Clark County to participate in the Remnant Defendants National Opioid Settlement. The agenda also provided time for public comment on matters within the Commission's jurisdiction that were not listed. The meeting documents referenced prior minutes from February 17, 19, 24, 26, and March 3, 2026, and included a Vendor Claims Report for the week ending March 13, 2026.