Gallatin County Commission unanimously approves intent to adopt Future Land Use Map
Our community has been engaging in Gallatin County’s process of creating a Future Land Use Map for nearly a year now, and it’s almost to the finish line! Over the last few weeks, Gallatin County Planning staff have presented the final version of the Future Land Use Map to the Planning Board and the Commission. While the Planning Board did not vote to recommend the adoption of the FLUM to the County Commission, the first public hearing by the Commission voted for an intent to adopt. This is big. We support a FLUM that reflects the values of our community and aligns with the intent of the Growth Policy. Use your voice and give water, wildlife, open space, and a seat at the table and help guide thoughtful growth in our county to protect what makes this place special. Learn more about the FLUM and the adoption hearing process below.
About the FLUM: The Future Land Use Map was created to visually represent the goals and values of the County’s Growth Policy. The map paints a picture of where and how we want to direct growth in our valley. It is based on rigorous science and data as well as public input, accounting for factors like aquifer characteristics, wildlife habitat and migration corridors, high-risk areas prone to wildfire and flooding, agricultural soils, and proximity to existing infrastructure. The subsequent land use categories and associated base densities were derived in part from the carrying capacity of our land and water resources and access to public water and sewer.
Here are some updates on their recent presentations:
11/19 Planning Board Meeting: The Planning Board’s motion to recommend the adoption of the FLUM as an Amendment to the Growth Policy to the County Commission was denied 3-1. The Planning Board members supported the overall concept and information in the FLUM but expressed concern about 1) The density recommendations in the Managed Growth and Open and Working Lands designations and 2) Adequate representation and public participation.
11/26 Commission Meeting, vote on intent to adopt: The County Commission voted unanimously for the intent to adopt the Future Land Use Map with no recommended amendments. Commissioners and Planning staff acknowledged the public's concern about density recommendations and provided details about the intent behind the designations. Overall, the Commissioners discussed the alignment between the FLUM and the Growth Policy, and the comprehensive vision of growth that the map portrays.
Our Comments: Commission Adoption Hearing FLUM Public Comment
12/10 Commission Meeting, vote on decision to adopt: Upcoming Meeting December 10, the County Commission will vote to adopt or not adopt the FLUM. This takes into consideration the Planning Board’s recommendation, the Commission’s last conversation, and public comment. Get tips for submitting your own public comment here.
Engage: There is still time to engage and help get a Future Land Use Map that considers water, wildlife, and open space, as well as guides growth toward community centers and existing infrastructure. Email comments to envision@gallatin.mt.gov by December 10.
Find Out More: Visit envisiongallatin.com and read GWC’s FLUM Engagement Guide