Gallatin Media Center

For immediate release: Oct. 16, 2024

Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer will be hosting a press conference to provide updates on the investigation into the homicide of Dustin Kjersem near Big Sky.

The press conference will be on Wednesday, Oct. 16 at 3 PM in the community room of the Gallatin County Detention Center, located at 605 S. 16th Ave. in Bozeman (just behind the Law & Justice Center.) The press conference will also be streamed live on the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

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For immediate release: Oct. 16, 2024 

Media contacts:
Audrey Cromwell, Gallatin County Attorney
406-582-3745
audrey.cromwell@gallatin.mt.gov 

Steve Ette, Gallatin County Court Services Director
406-582-3706
steve.ette@gallatin.mt.gov
 

New Pretrial Diversion Program Launched in Gallatin County

Gallatin County is introducing a new program that offers adult criminal defendants an alternative to traditional sentencing. The Pretrial Intervention Via Opportunities and Treatment (PIVOT) Program is designed to help participants change behaviors, make amends to victims, and avoid a conviction through tailored interventions and support.  

Developed by the Gallatin County Attorney’s Office and Gallatin County Court Services, the PIVOT Program evaluates defendants through an evidence-based needs assessment (ORAS) to identify the underlying factors contributing to criminal behavior. Based on the assessment, a court services officer develops a customized plan for the defendant to address accountability, victim restoration, the defendant’s barriers to health, and connects the defendant to services offered in the community.    

Participants who meet the program’s criteria may be diverted to the program before charges are filed or may be offered a deferred prosecution agreement by the prosecutor. This agreement allows defendants to avoid prosecution and/or a conviction if they fulfill the conditions of the program, which includes supervision, treatment, and accountability measures.  

“Research shows that diverting low-risk offenders to community supervision, rather than imprisonment, is highly effective in reducing recidivism,” said Gallatin County Attorney Audrey Cromwell. “We designed the PIVOT program to address the root causes of criminal behavior and strengthen positive ties to the community. Studies show that when offenders receive the support and rehabilitation they need, they are less likely to re-offend, which ultimately makes our community safer. For instance, if someone is unhoused and struggling with addiction, Court Services can connect them with housing assistance through HRDC, counseling from a licensed addiction counselor, and regular drug and alcohol testing for accountability. Too often, we see the same individuals repeatedly on our dockets. With this program, we aim to equip offenders with the tools for lasting, healthy change so they don’t fall back into the criminal justice system.” 

The program’s goals are to enhance community safety and reduce recidivism by addressing the root causes of criminal behavior. PIVOT emphasizes both rehabilitation and accountability, encouraging defendants to take responsibility, make amends to victims, and engage in meaningful change. Eligible participants are first-time felony and misdemeanor defendants with identifiable treatment, counseling or education needs that can be met within Gallatin County. However, those charged with felony sexual or violent crimes, DUIs, or who have prior convictions are ineligible. 

Participants will be referred to the program and assessed by prosecutors, defense attorneys, and Court Services officers.  

Steve Ette, Director of Gallatin County Court Services, explained, “We’ve consistently emphasized restorative justice, which holds offenders accountable, repairs the harm done to victims, reduces repeat offenses, and enhances public safety. By using evidence-based assessments, officers can evaluate an individual’s criminogenic risks—such as attitudes, beliefs, and thinking patterns—along with their needs, including employment, housing, substance abuse treatment, or mental health care. This helps officers motivate offenders to develop personalized plans to address these issues while ensuring compliance. The cost savings from reducing court caseloads and conserving criminal justice resources for lower-risk offenders should outweigh the minimal program expenses.” 

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For immediate release: Oct. 15, 2024

The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a homicide that occurred along Moose Creek Road, near the intersection with Tamphery Creek Road, north of Big Sky.

At 10:07 a.m. on Saturday, October 12, 2024, a caller reported discovering a deceased male in a tent approximately 2.5 miles up Moose Creek Road. The caller indicated that the death may have been caused by a bear attack. Units from the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, U.S. Forest Service, Montana Highway Patrol, and Big Sky Fire Department responded to the location.

A Montana FWP agent with expertise in bear attacks responded and did not find any signs of bear activity at the scene. This prompted investigators to treat the case as a homicide. Evidence gathered through an autopsy further indicated that this was a homicide.

The victim has been identified as 35-year-old Dustin Mitchell Kjersem, 35, of Belgrade, Montana.

This incident was a vicious attack, and detectives are working hard to develop and track down leads. A suspect has not been arrested at this time. If you or someone you know was in the area within the past week, and made any observations, please contact the Sheriff’s Office. Also, anyone with game or trail cameras in the area is asked to contact the GCSO Detectives Division at 406-582-2121 or by email at detectives@gallatin.mt.gov.

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For immediate release: Oct. 10, 2024

Media contact:
Steve Saunders, Gallatin County Weed Board Member
406-580-1027
weeddistrict@gallatin.mt.gov

Gallatin County Weed District Seeks Nominations for Outstanding Noxious Weed Management Award

The Gallatin County Weed District is proud to sponsor the annual Outstanding Noxious Weed Management Award, recognizing local landowners and private land managers who demonstrate exceptional dedication to controlling noxious weeds. This award highlights individuals committed to preserving the health of our landscapes by effectively managing these harmful plants.

Do you know someone who has gone above and beyond in their efforts to control noxious weeds? Nominate them today! Simply fill out the nomination form, or contact the Weed District at (406) 582-3265 or via email at weeddistrict@gallatin.mt.gov.

While nominations are accepted year-round, submissions for the 2025 award must be received by October 31 to be considered.

Submit completed nomination forms via email to weeddistrict@gallatin.mt.gov, by mail, or drop them off in person at our office:

Gallatin County Weed District
903 N. Black Avenue
Bozeman, MT 59715 (located at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds).

Help us recognize those who are helping protect our local ecosystem!

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For immediate release: Oct. 10, 2024 

Media contact:
Eric Semerad, Gallatin County Clerk & Recorder/Election Administrator
406-582-3054
eric.semerad@gallatin.mt.gov 

Absentee Ballots for November Federal Election to be Mailed Oct. 11 

** Reporters wanting to get video and/or photos are welcome to the Gallatin County Courthouse on Friday, Oct. 11 at about 7:30 AM. Staff will be loading boxes of ballots into the mail truck in the parking lot, near the Third Avenue entrance.*

On Friday, Oct. 11, the Gallatin County Elections Office will send over 61,000 ballots to active registered absentee voters for the upcoming Nov. 5 federal election. Voters should expect ballots to arrive in their mailboxes in the days following the mailing. 

To preview your ballot and review the races and issues on it, visit MyVoterPageMT.com. 

Important Reminder: Two Sheets for Voting 

Due to the high number of races and ballot measures in this election, most voters will receive two separate ballot sheets. Whether or not you vote on every race or issue, please ensure you return both sheets in your ballot envelope. This will help our Elections Office maintain accurate records and a smooth reconciliation process. 

Return Deadline 

All ballots must be received by 8 PM on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5, to be counted. If mailing your ballot, we strongly recommend doing so by Oct. 24 to allow ample time for it to arrive. 

Help Us by Voting Early! 

We encourage voters to return their absentee ballots as soon as possible. This will ensure your vote is counted on time and will also assist our election staff in processing ballots efficiently. 

Ballot Drop-Off Locations 

If you prefer to return your ballot in person, you may do so during regular business hours at the Gallatin County Elections Office, located on the second floor of the Gallatin County Courthouse, 311 W. Main St., Bozeman. Curbside drop-off will be available at the Courthouse on Monday, Nov. 4, and on Election Day. 

You can also drop off your absentee ballot at any polling place on Election Day, from 7 AM to 8 PM. 

In-Person Voting 

For folks wanting to vote in person, polling places will be open from 7 AM to 8 PM on Election Day. Check the location of your polling place by visiting MyVoterPageMT.com.  

Check Your Voter Status 

We urge all voters to confirm their registration status and review their information by visiting MyVoterPageMT.com. 

Voter Registration 

If you still need to register or update your voter information, you must do so in person at the Gallatin County Elections Office during regular business hours. Registration is open until noon on Monday, Nov. 4, and from 7 AM to 8 PM on Election Day. 

For more information or assistance, call the Gallatin County Elections Office at 406-582-3060, email gallatin.elections@gallatin.mt.gov, or visit GallatinVotes.com. 

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For immediate release: Oct. 8, 2024

In the early hours of Tuesday, Oct. 8, the Gallatin County Coroner’s Office and the Montana Highway Patrol responded to a fatal motorcycle accident on Interstate 90 near mile marker 317, close to the Trail Creek Road exit.

The motorcyclist, who was the sole individual involved, was transported to Bozeman Health Deaconess Regional Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries. The cause of death was determined to be blunt force trauma, and the incident has been ruled accidental.

Sheriff Dan Springer extends his deepest condolences to the victim’s family and friends during this difficult time.

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For immediate release: Oct. 8, 2024 

Media contact:
Patty Howard, Outreach Educator – Gallatin Solid Waste Management District
406-582-2492
patty.howard@gallatin.mt.gov 

 

Annual Fix-It Repair Clinic Returns to Belgrade Community Library on Oct. 11 

Got a lamp that won’t light? A beloved toy with broken parts? A bicycle in need of repair? The Fix-It Repair Clinic has you covered! Bring your small household items and let our expert volunteers help you give them a second life.  

The Gallatin Solid Waste Management District, in partnership with the Belgrade Community Library, is excited to host this annual event designed to save you money and keep perfectly good items out of the landfill.  

Event details: 

• Date: Friday, Oct. 11 

• Time: 3-6 PM 

• Location: Belgrade Community Library, 106 N. Broadway 

Volunteers will be on hand to fix items such as bikes, toys, clothing, small appliances, lamps, and more – free of charge! In past years, this clinic has helped divert nearly 3,000 pounds of items from the Logan Landfill. Don’t miss this opportunity repair and reuse! 

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Photos courtesy of Gallatin Solid Waste Management District from the 2023 Fix-It Clinic. 

 

For immediate release: Oct. 7, 2024

Media contact:
Whitney Bermes, Gallatin County Communications Coordinator
406-595-8963
whitney.bermes@gallatin.mt.gov

Gallatin County Voters to Decide on Local Option Motor Vehicle Tax Increase This November 

This November, Gallatin County voters will decide on a proposed increase to the local option motor vehicle tax, which is applied when vehicles are registered. The current tax is set at 0.5%, and state law allows for an increase to as much as 0.7%. 

Currently, about 70% of the revenue from this tax supports Gallatin County operations with roughly 30% going to the county’s general fund, 30% going to the public safety fund, and 10 % going to road infrastructure. The remaining 30% of the revenue is distributed to the incorporated cities and towns based on population, allowing them to allocate funds according to their needs.  

Last fiscal year, the tax generated $11.26 million for our communities. If the rate had been 0.7%, an additional $4.5 million could have been collected.  

If approved, all of the county’s portion of the additional revenue from the increase would be dedicated to road infrastructure. 

The increase would ensure that those benefiting from county transportation infrastructure, including out-of-state vehicle registrants, contribute to its upkeep. The additional funds would be invested in safety improvements, capacity expansion, maintaining essential transportation infrastructure Gallatin County residents depend on daily. 

Commissioner Scott MacFarlane emphasized the importance of ensuring out-of-state vehicle registrations contribute fairly to the local transportation infrastructure: “Montana has become a hotspot for out-of-state vehicle registrations because it’s financially advantageous. Many of these vehicles are not regularly used here yet benefit from our services. This modest tax increase helps us capture some of that financial interest and direct it toward the infrastructure our residents rely on.” 

This tax increase would also address Gallatin County’s urgent transportation infrastructure needs, helping to keep pace with rapid development and the growing demands on our transportation system.  

“As Gallatin County continues to grow, it becomes harder for local governments to maintain and improve our transportation infrastructure,” said Gallatin County Commissioner Zach Brown. “Every bit of additional funding helps us meet these demands and ensure the county roads and bridges our residents rely on are safe and reliable.” 

Key projects prioritized by the county include upgrades to the Alaska Road corridor, improvements to intersections at East Cameron Bridge and East Valley Center roads, the Love Lane and Durston Road intersection, and Cottonwood Road corridor. 

Absentee ballots will be mailed out starting Oct. 11, and must be returned by 8 PM on Election Day, Nov. 5. Voters are reminded that late ballots postmarked by Election Day but received after 8 PM will not be counted. Due to a high volume of races and ballot issues, most Gallatin County voters will receive two separate sheets. It is important to return both sheets to assist the elections office in the reconciliation process. 

In-person voting will be available on Tuesday, Nov. 5, from 7 AM to 8 PM at polling locations throughout Gallatin County.

For more voting information, visit www.GallatinVotes.com. 

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On 10/5/24 at 2:08 pm, Gallatin County Dispatch received a 911 call from a hunter just south of the Hidden Lakes complex who reported he was charged by a Grizzly bear and then was forced to climb a tree to find safety.  The hunter reported being charged by a sow grizzly bear with two cubs.  The hunter defended themself by shooting the bear with a pistol before climbing a tree.  The wounded bear remained in the area causing the hunter stay in the tree to wait for help.

A MT Fish Wildlife and Parks helicopter was dispatched to assist the hunter.  Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue teams in Big Sky mobilized and staged at key locations to respond to the hunter’s location if needed.  MT FWP personnel landed near the treed hunter and dispatched the wounded Grizzly.  The hunter was not injured during this encounter and was transported by helicopter to safety.

Sheriff Dan Springer would like to remind hunters to remain observant of their surroundings when hunting big game in Montana’s backcountry.  Carry bear spray and hunt in groups if possible.  Avoid areas where bear sign is present and always have a communication device to call for help if something goes wrong.

 

         

 

For immediate release: October 2, 2024 

Media contact: 

Kirsten Smith, Gallatin Behavioral Health Coalition
406-570-0058
ksmith@bloomconsult.org 

 

Community Partners Unite to Launch Youth Behavioral Health Campus Near Bozeman
Partners Raising Money to Complete Project 

Community partners are joining forces to establish a dedicated campus where youth experiencing behavioral health crises can receive safe and effective services close to home. 

HRDC, Gallatin County, and the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR) of Billings are spearheading the acquisition and development of a youth behavioral health campus near Bozeman. This initiative focuses on providing crisis and residential services for youth ages 11 to 18 in Gallatin, Park and Madison counties. Phase 1 services will focus on crisis services designed to stabilize and assess youth, provide comprehensive support to them and their families, and connect them with the appropriate services and resources tailored to their needs. Over time, the vision is for the campus to grow in its service provision to support a continuum of high-acuity therapeutic services. 

“Gallatin County stands firmly behind this important project, and we hope that the community will join us to make this dream a reality,” said Gallatin County Commissioner Zach Brown. “Kids in crisis are too often left without any local treatment options. We must change that status quo. This partnership represents a generational opportunity for our community to invest in local crisis services for our kids.” 

The need for this initiative is pressing. Montana has the highest rate of suicide in the nation, with Gallatin County youth at particularly high risk. 14% of Gallatin County teenagers said they attempted suicide in the past year, and 21% have seriously considered it. In 2023, Bozeman Health’s emergency department treated 276 youth (0 to 17) for behavioral health concerns.  Among them, 105 were discharged to inpatient psychiatric units in Helena, Billings, Idaho Falls, or elsewhere. In the past three years, the Help Center received around 170 mental health crisis calls annually from youth, with about 75% of these callers screening positive for suicidality. 

Our current service system is inadequate to meet the growing need for child and adolescent behavioral health services. Cost-of-living challenges for our workforce in Gallatin County have resulted in the closure of all group homes and a lack of higher-acuity behavioral health services in the region.  

“Our children who face acute mental health challenges often find themselves in treatment environments designed for adults, separated from their families and communities,” said Christina Powell, Help Center CEO. “This campus offers a unique opportunity to create a truly child-centered space for healing, providing a comprehensive range of care and opportunities to reconnect with their vibrant selves.” 

To address this critical issue, the partner organizations seek to raise $5,050,000 to purchase, renovate, and launch programs at the former Bootstrap Ranch north of Bozeman. The 30-acre campus is located at 8977 Dry Creek Road features facilities to serve between eight and 26 children in higher acuity residential services in the first phase. It has space for staff housing, an activity building, gymnasium, cafeteria, commercial kitchen, barn and outbuildings.  

“We are creating transformative solutions to meet a vital need for our community’s kids and families,” said Kirsten Smith, coordinator of the Gallatin Behavioral Health Coalition (GBHC). “We can and must do better, and this project is the start. With the right team of leaders, we can make something remarkable possible, but it can only become a reality if donors and partners rally around this vision.” 

YBGR will operate the campus, with HRDC purchasing the property and will transfer it to YBGR once start-up funding is secured. HRDC closed on the property on August 30.  

“HRDC’s community needs assessments consistently highlight mental health services as one of our region’s biggest gaps,” said Heather Grenier, CEO of HRDC. “Youth mental health services are especially lacking. Buying and transferring property is something our organization does well, and it is a way we can help bring this youth campus to life.” 

Gallatin County has committed $1.5 million towards the $3.55 million purchase of the campus. Acquisition costs are estimated to be $250,000, renovation costs are estimated to be $650,000, and start-up programming costs for the first year of operations are estimated at $650,000. Partners are working to raise the remaining, most of which needs to be secured in the next several months.  

To donate to this vital project, visit the HRDC’s website.  

For more information on this and other behavioral health projects in Gallatin County, email Kirsten Smith at ksmith@bloomconsult.org.  

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