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  • Two Top Loop Injured Snowmobiler

    On January 17, 2025, at 9:13 am, West Yellowstone Police Department Dispatch received a report of an injured snowmobiler who had struck a tree. The patient was located 4.5 miles west of West Yellowstone, MT on the Two Top forest service trail.

    Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue (GCSSAR) volunteers from the West Yellowstone detachment, Hebgen Basin Rural Fire District, US Forest Service Law Enforcement, Yellowstone National Park Law Enforcement, and Gallatin County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the request for aid. It was determined the best and most efficient way for responders to assist would be via use of snowmobiles and a specialized snowmobile towed ambulance. The patient was transported from the scene of the accident by the snowmobile towed ambulance to a waiting HBFD ambulance for further evaluation. The injured snowmobiler was later transported to Bozeman Health Big Sky Medical Center for a higher level of care.

    Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer would like to commend the group of snowmobilers on scene who provided accurate and reliable information allowing responders to dispatch proper resources. This led to a quick and efficient response for the patient, and everyone involved. Sheriff Springer would also like to remind snowmobilers to be cognizant of changing trail conditions and to always ride within your abilities.

    January 21, 2025 3:12 pm
  • Gallatin County Justice Center Now Open

    For immediate release: Jan. 21, 2024 

    Media contact:
    Nick Borzak, Gallatin County Chief Operations Officer
    406-582-3185
    nick.borzak@gallatin.mt.gov 

    Gallatin County Justice Center Now Open 

    Gallatin County’s new courts facility is officially open! 

    This month, staff from the offices in the Gallatin County Justice Center have moved into the brand-new, 67,000-square-foot building located at 515 S. 16th Ave. in Bozeman. The new facility sits adjacent to the now-closed Law and Justice Center. 

    The state-of-the-art Justice Center houses: 

    • Four District Court courtrooms 
    • Two Justice Court courtrooms 
    • Youth Court and Probation offices 
    • Clerk of Court offices 
    • Standing Master office 
    • Space for the Self-Help Law Center 

    Additional features include a large public community and jury assembly room and a security detail office operated by the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.  

    The project has been discussed as a community need for many years, as the old Law and Justice Center building is an out-of-code Catholic high school building purchased by the county in the 1980s. The 2021 Montana Legislature funded a fourth District Court in Gallatin County, leaving the physical space issue to be dealt with by Gallatin County. Our District Court judges have been sharing courtrooms in the old building since 2021, but now all four judges will have their own courtrooms and adequate office space for their support staff.  

    “The opening of the new Gallatin County Justice Center brings expanded capacity, increased efficiency and improved safety for employees and the public,” said Gallatin County Commission Chair Jennifer Boyer. “We are proud of this community investment and thankful for the support our voters gave to make this happen.” 

    Gallatin County Victim Services, previously located in the old Law and Justice Center, has relocated along with the Gallatin County Attorney’s Office to the former Farm Bureau building at 502 S. 19th Ave., Suite 102, in Bozeman.  

    Gallatin County 911 Records, also previously housed in the Law and Justice Center, has moved to the second floor of the Judge Guenther Memorial Center at 1709 W. College St.  

    And last summer, the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office moved into their newly renovated building at 677 Larua Louise Lane in Four Corners.  

    Please note: Bozeman Municipal Court remains located at the Bozeman Public Safety Center at 121 N. Rouse Ave. 

    Facility Funding 

    The $46 million cost of the new Justice Center was funded through a combination of sources: 

    • Voter-approved bond: $29 million 
    • County general fund money freed by American Rescue Plan Act funds: $4.8 million 
    • County savings: $5 million 
    • Bond premium funds: $3.7 million 
    • Financing: $3.5 million 

    Construction began in the fall of 2022 and was completed earlier this year. 

    What’s Next for the Old Law and Justice Center? 

    The former Law and Justice Center, originally built in 1961 as a Catholic high school and later purchased by the county and retrofitted for law enforcement and court use, is scheduled for demolition later this spring. The site will be repurposed to provide additional parking. 

    Public Celebration 

    A public ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new Justice Center will be held later this spring. Stay tuned for details! 

    Surplus Sale 

    Gallatin County is hosting a public surplus sale at the former Law and Justice Center building (615 S. 16th Ave., Bozeman) on Saturday, Jan. 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Items for sale include office furnishings, courtroom pews, and other items no longer needed for county business. 

    For more information, please contact Nick Borzak at 406-582-3185 or nick.borzak@gallatin.mt.gov. 

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    January 21, 2025 12:43 pm
  • Sheriff/Coroner Dan Springer Releases Names of Huffine Lane Motor Vehicle Accident Victims

     

    For immediate release: Jan. 15, 2025

    On Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025 at approximately 8:30 p.m., the Gallatin County Coroner’s Office along with Montana Highway Patrol and the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office investigated a double-fatality vehicle accident on Huffine Lane in Bozeman.

    The deceased driver was identified as 41-year-old Ramon Gilberto Morquecho Velazquez, and the deceased passenger was identified as 58-year-old Blanca Manzanares Ramirez, both residents of Arizona. The cause of death for both was determined to be blunt force injuries, and the manner was ruled accidental.

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    January 15, 2025 1:56 pm
  • Two Top Junction Injured Snowmobiler Rescue

    On January 7th, 2025, at 9:18AM, Gallatin County 911 Dispatch was notified of a snowmobile crash after a rider veered off the trail and collided with a tree. The rider sustained a severe leg injury in the crash rendering the rider unable to move.

    Volunteers from Gallatin County Search and Rescue in West Yellowstone, Custer-Gallatin National Forest service, Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks, Air Idaho Rescue-Air Methods and Hebgen Basin Rural Fire Department responded to the scene.

    Rescuers located the rider and quickly provided critical care after assessing the injured rider’s condition. Due to the severity of the injury, the patient was transferred to a waiting Air Idaho Rescue helicopter which provided rapid evacuation to the Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Trauma Center.

    We are proud of the swift and coordinated efforts of our SAR volunteers along with the interagency personnel. Their teamwork and expertise were critical in ensuring the injured rider received prompt medical care.

    Sheriff Dan Springer would like to remind snowmobilers to be mindful of their limits and maintain safe speeds.  Furthermore, it is advisable to stay on marked trails and be sure to have warm clothing and extra food and water in the event of an unexpected stay in the Backcountry. And as always, recreate with a friend who can contact emergency services in the event of an accident.

     

    January 7, 2025 4:00 pm
  • West Yellowstone Community Invited to Honor Officer Ashlee Stoneburner and Raise Awareness for Mental Health

    For immediate release: Dec. 30, 2024

    Media contact:
    Whitney Bermes, Public Information Officer
    406-595-8963 (cell)
    whitney.bermes@gallatin.mt.gov

    West Yellowstone Community Invited to Honor Officer Ashlee Stoneburner
    and Raise Awareness for Mental Health

    The West Yellowstone Police Department continues to mourn the tragic loss of Officer Ashlee Stoneburner, who died by suicide on December 24. As we come together to honor Ashlee’s life and service, we invite the community to join us in remembering her dedication and compassion for our residents.

    Ashlee, 26, grew up in Springfield, Oregon, and joined the West Yellowstone Police Department in April 2022. During her time with the department, she served as a school resource officer, Taser instructor, Crisis Intervention Team-certified officer, and evidence technician. Before joining the department, Ashlee gained valuable experience working in both Grand Canyon and Yellowstone National Parks. She is survived by her father, aunt, two brothers, and grandmother.

    On Monday, Dec. 30, local law enforcement will escort Ashlee from Dokken-Nelson Funeral Service in Bozeman to the West Yellowstone Police Department. The procession is expected to arrive at the junction of U.S. 191 and U.S. 287 at approximately 2:30 p.m. depending on the weather and road conditions. As the vehicles pass the junction and head into town, they will have their emergency lights activated. They will proceed along Canyon Street to the police department on Yellowstone Ave., arriving around 3 p.m. where Ashlee will rest in dispatch until her memorial service. Community members are encouraged to line this route to pay their respects. Ashlee will be brought home in her patrol car, which will be moved from its current location at the park. On Tuesday, during the service, her patrol car will be parked at the school as a tribute.

    The memorial service will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 31, at 11 AM at the West Yellowstone School gymnasium. Mental health professionals will be available on Tuesday at both the school and at the Povah Community Center to provide support to community members. Food and beverages will be offered.

    For those unable to attend, we are working on a livestream of the service. We will share those details when they are finalized.

    Due to recent heavy snow fall, available parking for the service will be spread over several locations.

    For Ashlee’s family and mourners with mobility issues, reserved parking will be in front of the elementary school on school grounds, accessed via Geyser Street.

    Other areas available for parking are:

    • Along the west side of the high school, accessed by driving north on Geyser Street.
    • Limited parking north of the football field along DeLacy Avenue.
    • The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located on the corner of Gibbon Avenue and Faithful Street.
    • Along Parkway D
    • Along Gibbon Avenue

    Please do not block fire hydrants, private driveways, or intersections. Troopers from Montana Highway Patrol will be in the area assisting with traffic control and advising attendees of available locations to park.

    Prior to Tuesday’s service, a law enforcement procession will bring Ashlee from the West Yellowstone Police Department to the school prior to the service. Starting at 10 AM, the procession will head east on Yellowstone Ave. to Canyon St., turn north on Canyon St. to intersection, then turn west on U.S. Highway20/Firehole Ave. and continue to Geyser St.

    Ashlee’s family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her honor to Blue H.E.L.P. (bluehelp.org), an organization dedicated to supporting law enforcement officers and their families affected by trauma and loss.

    “The tragic loss of Ashlee serves as a sobering reminder of the critical importance of mental health for everyone, especially those who serve on the front lines of our community,” said West Yellowstone Police Chief Chris Wigner. “First responders are human, just like everyone else, and often face immense pressure and trauma in their roles, making mental health resources and support systems essential.”

    Chief Wigner continued, “This heartbreaking incident underscores the need for open conversations about mental health and greater access to care for those in crisis. As a community, we must come together to reduce stigma, promote awareness, and ensure that help is available to anyone who needs it. Let this moment inspire action to support the well-being of all, particularly those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving others.”

    In times of crisis, it’s vital to know that help is just a phone call or text away. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a confidential, 24/7 resource available to anyone experiencing emotional distress, thoughts of suicide, or a mental health crisis. By dialing 988, individuals are connected to trained counselors who provide compassionate support and assistance. Whether you are struggling personally or are concerned about someone else, the 988 Lifeline is there to listen and help. We encourage everyone in our community to save this number and share it widely—it could save a life.

    We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support from the community and neighboring agencies during this difficult time. Your kindness and solidarity mean so much to our officers, dispatchers, and Ashlee’s family.

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    December 30, 2024 11:37 am
  • Animal Cruelty Suspect Cited

    On December 23rd the Sheriff’s Office received a call from a man who wanted to report he was the person in the video with the dog that has been circulating throughout the community and social media.

    A Sheriff’s deputy went to his residence and spoke to him. The dog was observed and appeared healthy.  A check into the veterinary records indicated there had been no prior signs of abuse.  The caller was issued a citation for cruelty to animals.

    December 24, 2024 3:30 pm
  • Gallatin County Launches Virtual Open House for Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Action Plan

    For immediate release: Dec. 11, 2024

    Media contact:
    Scott Randall, Robert Peccia & Associates
    srandall@rpa-hln.com
    406-447-5005

    Gallatin County Launches Virtual Open House for Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Action Plan

    Gallatin County is excited to announce the launch of its Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Action Plan, a countywide initiative focused on improving transportation safety across rural areas and the urban-rural interface near Bozeman and Belgrade. As part of the planning process, Gallatin County is hosting a Virtual Open House from Friday, December 6 through Monday, January 5, inviting residents and stakeholders to provide valuable feedback and help shape the future of transportation safety in the region. 

    The SS4A Action Plan will guide efforts to reduce fatalities and serious injuries from roadway crashes, with a focus on improving safety for all users—whether driving, biking, walking, or using other modes of transportation. The plan will specifically address challenges in rural areas while considering the connections between rural communities and nearby urban centers. 

    “We want to make sure that Gallatin County’s streets are safe for everyone, and that means hearing from all segments of our community,” said Cola Rowley, Gallatin County Deputy Administrator and project manager for the SS4A Action Plan. “The input we gather through this open house will play a critical role in identifying safety priorities and shaping strategies for the roadways in our county.” 

    Virtual Open House Details 

    The Virtual Open House will feature informational materials, videos, surveys, and other interactive content that allow participants to share their thoughts on transportation safety concerns, priorities, and potential solutions. The online event is designed to be accessible and convenient, enabling residents to participate at their own pace during the 30-day period. 

    Event Details: 

    • What: Gallatin County Safe Streets for All Virtual Open House 
    • When: Friday, December 6 – Monday, January 5 
    • Where: GallatinCountySS4A.com 

    The public is encouraged to explore the open house content, complete surveys, and submit comments or questions. The goal is to ensure that the SS4A Action Plan reflects the diverse needs and experiences of the community. 

    A Collaborative Process 

    The SS4A Action Plan is being developed with extensive community input and data analysis, including past crash statistics and input from public surveys and stakeholder meetings. In addition to feedback collected through the virtual open house, Gallatin County will host additional outreach events in the coming months as the plan progresses. 

    “This open house is just the beginning of a collaborative process that will continue to evolve,” Rowley explained. “We are committed to making sure the plan addresses the most pressing safety issues and that everyone in Gallatin County has a chance to be heard.” 

    About the Safe Streets for All Action Plan 

    The Safe Streets for All (SS4A) initiative is part of a nationwide program aimed at reducing transportation-related fatalities and serious injuries. In 2023, Gallatin County was awarded funding to develop a comprehensive safety action plan (referred to as an “Action Plan”) identifying the most significant roadway safety concerns in the community as well as a set of projects and strategies to address identified safety issues. Action Plans are the foundation of the SS4A grant program. Once a community has an approved Action Plan in place, it is eligible to apply for additional funding to implement the plan’s projects and strategies. Eligible projects and strategies may be infrastructural, behavioral, and/or operational activities. 

    The effort will build on the findings and recommendations of past planning efforts, such as the Greater Triangle Area Transportation Plan (GTATP) and the Triangle Area Trails Plan, which have already addressed multimodal transportation safety concerns. The SS4A Action Plan will focus on issues identified through these studies, as well as new trends that emerge throughout the planning process. These may include concerns related to single-vehicle run-off-the-road crashes, impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving, or the safety of vulnerable road users. 

    How to Submit Comments 

    Feedback can be submitted at any time during the planning process, with comments and questions directed to the consultant project manager, Scott Randall, via email at srandall@rpa-hln.com, by phone at 406-447-5005, or by mail at 3147 Saddle Drive, Helena, MT 59601. 

    The feedback gathered through this outreach will help guide the development of the SS4A Action Plan and inform specific projects and strategies aimed at improving transportation safety for all residents of Gallatin County. 

    For more information about Gallatin County’s SS4A program or to access the Virtual Open House, please visit GallatinCountySS4A.com. 

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    December 11, 2024 11:57 am
  • Gallatin County GIS Releases Updated County Mapper 

    For immediate release: December 9, 2024 

    Media Contact:
    Alexa Morris, Gallatin County GIS Manager
    406-582-3041
    alexa.morris@gallatin.mt.gov 

    Gallatin County GIS Releases Updated County Mapper 

    Gallatin County’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Department is excited to announce the release of its updated county mapper. The revamped tool offers an improved user experience with a host of new features and functionalities designed to benefit both the public and county staff. 

    The updated county mapper boasts several enhancements, including: 

    • Fast and Efficient Search Functionality: Users can quickly locate parcels, addresses, and other geographic data. 
    • Embedded Links: Direct access to tax records and the Montana Cadastral system provides seamless navigation to related information. 
    • Faster Loading Speeds: Improved performance ensures a smooth and time-efficient experience. 
    • Map Toggles: Easily switch between different map layers to view property lines, zoning, floodplains, and more. 
    • Measuring Tool: Measure distances and areas with precision using the built-in tool. 
    • Clean Layout: The interface has been redesigned for intuitive use, making it easier than ever to find and interpret information. 
    • Comprehensive Information: The mapper contains a wealth of data that is valuable for both public users and county staff. 

    Gallatin County GIS is committed to ongoing improvements to the county mapper. Planned future updates include: 

    • Direct Document Links: Access parcel-specific documents directly through the mapper. 
    • PLAT Viewer: Visualize recorded plats for a deeper understanding of property layouts. 
    • Updated Print Functionality: Enhanced printing options for maps and related data. 
    • User Feedback Integration: Continued updates based on user input to meet evolving needs. 

    Check out the updated county mapper at this link! To explore the tool and its new features, visit the site and take advantage of its enhanced functionality. 

    For questions or feedback about the county mapper, please contact the Gallatin County GIS Department at 406-582-3049. 

    About Gallatin County GIS 

    The Gallatin County GIS Department is the hub of geospatial information for Gallatin County, serving as a vital resource for accurate, reliable and accessible spatial data and maps to serve all county residents. Our office is dedicated to providing accurate information to enhance decision-making, improve departmental operations, an facilitate sustainable development.  

    The public can visit the GIS Department at its new location at the Judge Guenther Memorial Building, located at 1709 W. College St. in Bozeman. 

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    December 9, 2024 11:59 am
  • Hyalite Reservoir Injured Cross Country Skier Rescue

     
    On December 4th, 2024, at 1:23pm, Gallatin County 911 dispatch received a call for an injured cross country skier near Crescent Lake at Hyalite Reservoir. The skier was approximately 1.5 miles up the trail and was unable to ski out due to an injury to their hip from falling. The skier’s partner was able to ski to an area with cell reception to call for help.
    Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue volunteers from the Valley section responded to the trailhead and dispatched snowmobiles with an Orion rescue sled to make contact with the skier. After an initial medical assessment and packaging for transport, the patient was taken to the Hyalite Reservoir parking area and transferred to a Hyalite Fire Department ambulance for transport to follow-on medical care.
    Sheriff Springer would like to remind recreationalists that in the event of an accident it is safer to have someone with you when you’re enjoying the outdoors.
    December 5, 2024 1:17 pm
  • Public Invited to Open House to Learn More About Hidden Creek Affordable Housing Project 

    For immediate release: Nov. 27, 2024 

    Media contact:
    Cola Rowley, Gallatin County Deputy County Administrator
    406-582-3047
    cola.rowley@gallatin.mt.gov 

    Public Invited to Open House to Learn More About Hidden Creek Affordable Housing Project 

    Gallatin County is making significant progress in developing the vacant land north of the Gallatin County Rest Home and south of Juniper Street. The proposed new neighborhood, Hidden Creek, will feature permanently affordable housing options, including apartments, rowhomes, and a parcel to remain under county ownership. 

    Project Update
    As part of its commitment to addressing the region’s housing needs, Gallatin County, in collaboration with United Housing Partners LLC (UHP) and the Human Resource Development Council, District IX (HRDC), has secured a major milestone for the Hidden Creek project. The Montana Board of Housing recently awarded the project a competitive 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), which will provide essential funding to move the development forward. 

    The Hidden Creek neighborhood will include: 

    • 182 LIHTC apartments, providing affordable rental options for local residents. 
    • 8 equity-restricted rowhomes for sale through a community land trust (CLT) to ensure long-term affordability. 
    • A county-owned parcel for future use. 

    Learn more about the LIHTC program here. 

    The partnership is now finalizing site design and subdivision details, with plans to submit the formal site plan to the City of Bozeman in the near future. View the latest draft of the site plan here. 

    Open House Invitation
    To ensure transparency and engage with the community, Gallatin County invites the public, neighbors, and interested parties to a drop-in open house to learn more about the Hidden Creek neighborhood. 

    Details 

    • Who: Gallatin County, United Housing Partners, and HRDC 
    • What: A drop-in informational open house to review the latest designs, ask questions, and share feedback on the Hidden Creek project. 
    • When: Monday, December 2 (No formal presentation; visit during either session)
      Noon–1 PM
      7 PM–8 PM 
    • Where: Gallatin County Courthouse, Community Room (Room 300)
      311 W. Main Street, Bozeman, MT 

    This event provides an opportunity for the community to see the most up-to-date designs and participate in shaping a project aimed at addressing Bozeman’s critical housing needs. 

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    November 26, 2024 12:23 pm
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Gallatin Media Center

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