HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-30-26 Study Commission Agenda and Packet MaterialsA. Call to Order with Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence - 4:00 PM, Commission Room,
City Hall, 121 North Rouse
B. Changes to the Agenda
C. Public Comment on Anything within the Jurisdiction of the Study Commission
THE STUDY COMMISSION OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA
SC AGENDA
Thursday, July 30, 2026
How to Participate:
If you are interested in commenting in writing on items on the agenda please send an email
to govreview@bozeman.net prior to 12:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. At the direction of the
Study Commission, anonymous public comments are not distributed to the Study Commission.
Public comments will also be accepted in-person and through video conference during the appropriate
agenda items but you may only comment once per item.
As always, the meeting will be recorded and streamed through the Meeting Videos and available in the
City on cable channel 190.
For more information please contact Ex Officio, Mike Maas, 406.582.2321, or visit bozemanstudy.com.
This meeting will be held both in-person and also using an online video conferencing system. You
can join this meeting:
Via Video Conference:
Click the Register link, enter the required information, and click submit.
Click Join Now to enter the meeting.
Via Phone: This is for listening only if you cannot watch the stream, channel 190, or attend in-
person
United States Toll
+1 669 900 9128
Access code: 951 6442 0347
This is the time to comment on any matter falling within the scope of the Bozeman Study
Commission. There will also be time in conjunction with each agenda item for public comment
relating to that item but you may only speak once per topic. Please note, the Study Commission
cannot take action on any item which does not appear on the agenda. All persons addressing the
Study Commission shall speak in a civil and courteous manner and members of the audience shall
be respectful of others. Please state your name, and state whether you are a resident of the city
or a property owner within the city in an audible tone of voice for the record and limit your
1
D. Consent Agenda
D.1 Approval of Study Commission Minutes(Heinen)
E. Correspondence or Study Commission Update
F. Unfinished Business
F.1 Review and Provide Edits to the 2026 Tentative Report of the City of Bozeman Study
Commission(Franks/Cestero)
G. New Business
G.1 Ballot Education Engagement Timeline (Taylor and Strout)
H. Future Agenda Items
I. Public Comment on Anything within the Jurisdiction of the Study Commission
J. Announcements
K. Adjournment
comments to three minutes.
Written comments can be located in the Public Comment Repository.
Consider the Motion: I move to approve the Study Commission meeting minutes from July 23, 2026.
Reference Materials
Study Commission Bylaws
Study Commission Resources
Study Commission meetings are open to all members of the public. If you have a disability that
requires assistance, please contact the City of Bozeman's ADA Coordinator, David Arnado, at
406.582.3232.
Study Commission meetings are televised live on cable channel 190 and streamed live on our
Meeting Videos Page.
2
Memorandum
REPORT TO:Study Commission
FROM:Caeleb Heinen, Recording Secretary
Mike Maas, Ex Officio
SUBJECT:Approval of Study Commission Minutes
MEETING DATE:July 30, 2026
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Citizen Advisory Board/Commission
RECOMMENDATION:Consider the Motion: I move to approve the Study Commission meeting
minutes from July 23, 2026.
STRATEGIC PLAN:1.1 Outreach: Continue to strengthen and innovate in how we deliver
information to the community and our partners.
BACKGROUND:Attached are the written minute summaries from the previous two
meetings. Future meeting minutes ought to be approved at the next
schedule Study Commission meeting.
All past meeting recordings are available for review on the City's Meeting
Videos page.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:None identified
ALTERNATIVES:As per the Study Commission
FISCAL EFFECTS:None
Attachments:
07-23-26 Study Commission Meeting Minutes.pdf
Report compiled on: July 27, 2026
3
Bozeman City Study Commission Meeting Minutes, July 23, 2026
Page 1 of 4
THE STUDY COMMMISSION MEETING OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA
MINUTES
July 23, 2026
A) 00:02:37 Call to Order with Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence - 4:00 PM,
Commission Room, City Hall, 121 North Rouse Present: Becky Franks, Barb Cestero, Deanna Campbell, Jan Strout, Mike Maas
Absent: None
Excused: Carson Taylor
B) 00:03:37 Changes to the Agenda
C) 00:03:57 Public Comment on Anything within the Jurisdiction of the Study Commission
D) 00:04:09 Consent Agenda
D.1 Approval of Study Commission Minutes
07-15-26 Study Commission Meeting Minutes.pdf
00:04:13 Motion to approve I can make a motion that we approve the Consent Agenda.
Barb Cestero: Motion
Jan Strout: 2nd
00:04:22 Vote on the Motion to approve I can make a motion that we approve the Consent Agenda. The
Motion carried 4 - 0.
Approve:
Becky Franks
Barb Cestero
Deanna Campbell
Jan Strout
Disapprove:
None
4
Bozeman City Study Commission Meeting Minutes, July 23, 2026
Page 2 of 4
00:04:34 Motion to approve I want to make a motion to excuse the absence of Carson Taylor who is not
available this evening and was preorganized ahead of time.
Becky Franks: Motion
Jan Strout: 2nd
00:05:04 Vote on the Motion to approve I want to make a motion to excuse the absence of Carson
Taylor who is not available this evening and was preorganized ahead of time. The Motion carried 4 - 0.
Approve:
Becky Franks
Barb Cestero
Deanna Campbell
Jan Strout
Disapprove:
None
E) 00:05:10 Correspondence or Study Commission Update
00:05:22 Cmr. Strout discussed her and Cmr. Taylor's correspondence with Danegeld and the
requests made by Danegeld for engagement
00:08:17 Cmr. Campbell discussed public outreach strategy with a common presentation for
upcoming engagement events
00:09:03 Further discussion about draft materials in the Ballot Education Plan
00:11:05 Ex Officio Maas discussed correspondence with the Commissioner of Political
Proctices (COPP)
F) 00:11:48 Unfinished Business
F.1 00:12:24 Review Edits to Wards and Adjustments to Wards in the Proposed
Charter
DRAFT Section 7.04 for consideration.pdf
00:12:27 Cmr. Cestero walked the Cmrs. through the Wards Document
00:17:14 Discussion on Section 7.04 Wards (b) Ward Advisory Board
00:28:57 Opened for public comment
00:29:12 Daniel Carty gave public comment
00:29:44 Katie Adams gave public comment
5
Bozeman City Study Commission Meeting Minutes, July 23, 2026
Page 3 of 4
00:33:41 Further Discussion on Section 7.04 Wards (b) Ward Advisory Board
00:41:15 Discussion on Section 7.04 Wards (c) Criteria for establishing/adjusting ward boundaries
00:48:00 Opened for public comment
00:48:10 Further discussion on Section 7.04 Wards (c) Criteria for establishing/adjusting ward
boundaries
00:49:45 Ex Officio Maas to correspond with Community Development Director Chris Saunders on
annexation
00:50:20 Discussion on Section 7.04 Wards (d) Timeline and process
00:56:29 Opened for public comment
00:56:38 Further discussion on Section 7.04 Wards (d) Timeline and process
F.2 00:59:00 Review edits to Tentative Charter
DRAFT 7 23 26 Tentative Bozeman Charter .pdf
00:59:34 Cmr. Cestero outlined new changes from the July 15 meeting
01:01:10 Discussion on Amended Charter 2.02 Eligibility, Terms and Composition
01:02:45 Cmr. Cestero brought the Study Commission's attention to article VIII and provided
explanation for the track changes
01:10:43 No discussion on 8.01
01:10:51 No discussion on 8.02
01:10:59 No discussion on 8.03
01:11:19 Discussion on 8.04 Neighborhood Associations
01:13:50 Discussion on 8.05 City Boards
01:21:22 Opened for public comment
01:21:34 Katie Adams gave public comment
01:25:21 The Study Commission moved to Article XI
01:25:30 Discussion on (c) Sub-options
01:32:10 The Study Commission moved back to the Preamble
01:32:35 Discussion on the Preamble and the words "human rights"
6
Bozeman City Study Commission Meeting Minutes, July 23, 2026
Page 4 of 4
01:35:54 Cmr. Cestero pointed out track changes to 2.11, 5.04, Article VI and 6.09
01:38:00 Discussion on 6.09 Independent Audit
01:47:28 Cmr. Cestero pointed out track changes to 9.01
01:48:58 Cmr. Franks outlined the current edits and changes
01:49:31 Ex Officio Maas to provide number of licensed State Audit services, annexes and the
vote for Human Rights in the Preamble
01:51:00 Emily Talago provided public comment
01:52:18 Further discussion on the Preamble
G) 01:53:26 New Business
G.1 Review edits to the Draft Final Report
Tentative report 2026 Local gov't study commission 7 23 26.pdf
01:53:28 Cmr. Franks requested Cmrs. to send their edits to the Draft Final Report by end of the
day Saturday
H) 01:54:15 Future Agenda Items
01:55:01 Late meeting discussion about upcoming events and ballot education
I) 01:58:12 Public Comment on Anything within the Jurisdiction of the Study Commission
J) Announcements
K) 01:58:22 Adjournment
7
Memorandum
REPORT TO:Study Commission
FROM:Caeleb Heinen, Recording Secretary
Mike Maas, Ex Officio
Barb Cestero, Study Commissioner
Becky Franks, Study Commissioner Vice Chair
SUBJECT:Review and Provide Edits to the 2026 Tentative Report of the City of Bozeman Study
Commission
MEETING DATE:July 30, 2026
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Citizen Advisory Board/Commission
RECOMMENDATION:Review the current edits to the Tentative Report of the City of Bozeman
Study Commission provided by Study Commissioners Franks and Cestero
after discussion at their last meeting, July 23.
STRATEGIC PLAN:1.1 Outreach: Continue to strengthen and innovate in how we deliver
information to the community and our partners.
BACKGROUND:As part of the Bozeman City Study Commission's work to review the
Bozeman Charter, the Study Commission has made edits on their current
tentative draft. These edits are up for review.
Previously, the Tentative Charter was a separate document outside of the
Tentative Draft. The Charter now lives within the Report as it will for the
Final Draft Submission as well.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:None identified
ALTERNATIVES:As per the Study Commission
FISCAL EFFECTS:None identified
Attachments:
DRAFT 7 30 26 Tentative report 2026 Local gov't study
commission.pdf
Report compiled on: July 27, 2026
8
July 30, 2026
CITY OF BOZEMAN
LOCAL GOVERNMENT STUDY COMMISSION
2024-2026
DRAFT REPORT
July 30, 2026
9
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. LETTER TO THE RESIDENTS OF THE CITY OF BOZEMAN
II. REPORT SUMMARY
A. Findings of the Study Commission
B. Key Provisions of the Amended Charter
C. Sub-options that are presented
III. COMPARISON OF EXISTING AND PROPOSED AMENDED CHARTER
A. Existing Charter - Description of General Characteristics
B. Proposed Amended Charter - Description of General Characteristics
C. Comparison of Specific Characteristics
D. Justifications and Reasons for the Proposed Amendments
IV. APPENDIX
Exhibit A: Certificate of Existing Form of Government
Exhibit B: Certificate of the Amended Charter
Exhibit C: Certificate Establishing the Date of the Election
Exhibit D: Certificate Establishing the Official Ballot
Exhibit E: Certificate Establishing the Effective Date of the Charter
Exhibit F: Recommendations from the Study Commission to the City Commission
and staff
10
2
I. LETTER TO THE RESIDENTS OF THE CITY OF BOZEMAN
To the Residents of the City of Bozeman:
The City of Bozeman Local Government Study Commission, elected by the voters on November
5, 2024, is honored to present this report to you. This is the first study commission report in 20 years,
and the first review of the city charter adopted in 2006. The question of adopting an amended charter
will be placed on the ballot for November 3, 2026.
The Montana Code Annotated directs the work of the study commission. As stated in MCA 7-3-
172, the purpose is to “study the existing form and powers of a local government and procedures for
delivery of local government services and compare them with other forms available under the laws of
the state”. This started by contracting a Communication Strategist, and engaging the public with
comprehensive surveys, two public hearings, multiple presentations, meetings with stakeholders, social
media, paid advertisement and op-eds. Members of the study commission were also interviewed on the
radio and by the Bozeman Chronicle.
In addition to learning from the public, the Montana State University Local Government Center
provided best-practice research and information regarding local governments in other Montana
communities. This was an effort to understand how city government works best in a community like
Bozeman. There was a concerted effort to consider how the City of Bozeman is growing and changing
and what changes to the Charter could impact governance while also managing future growth.
This report reflects both public engagement and the study process. It includes the recommended
government processes that will guide the present and future governmental services. During this process,
it became clear that residents were not feeling heard or seen by the City of Bozeman government system.
Therefore, you will find a new Article called “Public Engagement”. The changes you see within this
document demonstrate a clear understanding that active, informed and inclusive engagement of
community members, both individually and collectively, is an essential element of healthy civic life and a
thriving local democracy.
Due to the number of edits from the existing charter, this document provides you with a clean copy of the
amended charter. For transparency, you can find a summary of all proposed edits on the
bozemanstudy.com website.
Respectfully submitted,
City of Bozeman Local Government Study Commission
____________________________ _____________________________
Carson Taylor, Chair Becky Franks, Vice Chair
____________________________ _____________________________
Deanna Campbell Barb Cestero
____________________________
Jan Strout
11
3
II. REPORT SUMMARY
The City of Bozeman Study Commission, having thoroughly studied our current form of government,
the alternative forms of government available under state law, and future governmental needs of the
city, recommends the city retain the current charter form of government with self-governing powers and
a commission-manager structure.
While we are not changing the powers, form or structure of our government we ARE proposing
important amendments to the charter and possibly to the composition of the city commission,
depending on voter decisions. We are recommending an amended charter to address issues and
concerns brought forward in the community, employee and city board surveys, and public input and
engagement throughout the study. These amendments are summarized below and will be realized if
decided by qualified voters in November 2026. Note that there is a vote to approve the amended
charter first and the sub-options will only be realized if the amended charter passes and replaces the
existing charter. (MCA 7-3-151 (1))
A. Findings of the Study Commission
The City of Bozeman has experienced exponential growth since the existing charter was passed by
voters in 2006. When thinking about how to make amendments to the charter, the study commission
took current and future growth into consideration to think about the present state of affairs, but also how
the community will change and grow over the next 10 years until the next opportunity to engage in this
process.
Some of the edits were done to make the document easier to understand, and some were substantive
to address identified issues in the 2006 charter. It is important to read the entire 2026 draft charter to
see all the suggested edits, but listed below are some key highlights of the proposed amended charter:
Finding #1: The City of Bozeman is currently functioning well with self-governing powers and a
charter form of government as it has since 2006. The city has been well served by the
commission/manager structure of government for decades because it places the day-to-day
operations of the city in the hands of a professional, qualified manager.
Finding #2: The mayor plays an important leadership role for the residents of Bozeman, is a
high-profile position in the community serving in a leadership capacity, chairing the commission
meetings and often serves as a liaison between the elected body and the city manager. In
addition, the mayor also represents the interests of Bozeman across Montana and the United
States. Requiring the elected mayor to serve the first two years of their term as deputy mayor
has become confusing to the public and shortens the time of service for the position the mayor
is elected to.
Finding #3: The public has shared an interest in having greater community-wide representation
among elected commissioners. Currently, many commissioners reside in the same area of the
community. This issue is exacerbated because compensation is currently set at a level that may
require a commissioner to require other income.
12
4
Finding #4: The public has clearly stated that they want more engagement and a seat at the
table in city government. Some of the public is not feeling heard, gets the sense they are being
pushed aside during important city decisions, and that commissioners come to public meetings
with their minds already made up making public participation futile. Therefore, the amended
charter includes a new article called Public Engagement, to clarify and strengthen the role of
neighborhood associations, the Inter-Neighborhood Council and city boards, providing
increased opportunity, transparency and two-way communication with city government.
Finding #5: The City’s exponential growth since 2006 has left some citizens feeling
underrepresented on the city commission. This amended charter presents residents with
several options that may address this issue including the option to expand the number of
commissioners from four to six and the option to shift to electing commissioners by wards plus
the mayor who will be voted at large. These options will be provided as three separate sub-
options on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot. In addition, the charter proposes a
new city board and process to address compensation for the commission and mayor.
B. Key provisions of the amended charter
This is a high-level view of the changes in this amended charter that differ from the existing
charter. It is recommended that voters read the entire amended charter being brought before the
voters in November 2026. In addition, worksheet drafts and a document comparing the existing
charter and amended charters can be found on the website www.bozemanstudy.com.
1. Election of mayor. The mayor will be elected at large and will serve a 4-year term. There
will no longer be a deputy mayor. Every two years, the city commission will select a vice
mayor to serve in the occasional absence of the mayor.
2. Commissioner and Mayor Compensation. Language has been added that requires the
city of Bozeman to have a compensation board that will determine a fair and reasonable
wage for the commissioners and the mayor.
3. City Commission Vacancy. If there is a vacancy, there will now be a requirement to fill the
vacant position within 60 days (instead of 30) and the city commissioners must hold a public
forum with potential applicants for the vacant commission or mayoral position.
4. Three Branches of Government. The Article I, Section 1.01 reinforces that there are three
branches of government: executive, legislative and judicial. There is a new Article IV with
general provisions of the judicial branch.
5. Article VIII: Public Engagement has been added with additional clarity on the role of
neighborhood associations, Inter-Neighborhood Council and city boards.
6. Section 11.4 lists the schedule of implementation for some of the changes described in the
amended charter.
7. The ballot is listed in Exhibit D. This states the language of the ballot that will be brought
forth to the voters on November 3, 2026. There is one central vote to either keep the
existing charter or approve the amended charter. In addition, there are three sub-options
regarding how city commissioners are elected. If the amended charter vote fails, the existing
2006 charter will stay in place and therefore, all sub-options will fail even if they are
approved by voters.
13
5
8. Exhibit F. There are several “recommendations” from the study commission to the city
commission and staff. These can be found in Exhibit F. These are important issues that
were discovered by the study commission, but don’t belong in the charter. The city
commissioners and staff can follow them if they see fit.
C. Sub-Options that are presented
In addition to asking voters to approve the amended charter, the study commission will present the
voters with 3 sub-options to decide on November 3, 2026. If the sub-options pass with a majority of
votes, they will only take effect if the amended charter is approved by the voters. If the amended
charter is rejected, then the sub-options fail regardless of the number of votes received. (MCA 7-3-
151)
1. Sub-Option #1 will allow voters to decide if Bozeman should continue to have 4
commissioners and a mayor or expand the city commission to 6 commissioners and a
mayor.
2. Sub-Option #2 will ask voters to decide whether to continue to elect commissioners at large
where commissioners can live anywhere within city limits, or elect city commissioners by
wards where commissioners must live within the ward they seek to serve.
3. Sub-Option #3 will be based on Sub-Option #2: If voters approve ward-based residency
requirements for commissioners, Sub-Option #3 allows voters to decide whether only voters
living within a ward should vote for the candidates from that ward, or if commissioners must
live within a ward and will continue to be elected at large.
III. COMPARISON OF EXISTING AND PROPOSED AMENDED CHARTER
A. Existing Charter
The City of Bozeman currently operates under the Municipal Commission-Manager structure of
government with self-government powers under Title 7, Chapter 3, Part 3 of the Montana Code
Annotated, with an existing charter. This charter was created and passed by voters in 2006.
B. Proposed Amended Charter
The proposed amended charter continues the City of Bozeman’s self-government powers, charter
form of government and commission-manager structure. The charter has been amended in a
manner that reflects the current form of government with a number of modifications that the study
commission decided would enhance the operation of government and ensure that the city's
business is conducted in a professional manner that is transparent and engages the public.
14
6
C. Comparison of Specific Characteristics - existing charter form with the amended charter.
Characteristics Present form of Government Proposed form of Government Evaluative Comments
1 Form of
Government
Charter form with self-
government powers; elected
commission determines policy;
mayor provides leadership on
commission and hired city
manager administers policy.
Charter form with self-government
powers; elected commission
determines policy; mayor provides
leadership on commission and
hired city manager administers
policy.
retain charter form with self-
government powers
2 Powers (Section
1.01)
Self-government powers; city
government may exercise any
power which the state legislature
doesn't deny. Legislative power
is vested in the commission.
no change no change
3
City Commission
is the Governing
Body (Section
2.02) 4 commissioners + mayor with
voting privileges. Mayor serves 2
years as deputy mayor before
becoming mayor
Eliminate the requirement for the
mayor to serve 2 years as deputy
mayor. Mayor will be elected
directly to serve a four-year term.
May expand to 6 commissioners +
mayor if sub-option is approved
Serving as deputy mayor for
the first two years of the term
is confusing and limits the
ability of the mayor to build
partnerships. Increasing the
size of the governing body
from 4 to 6 commissioners
may help improve
representation.
a. Size
b. Election
Non-partisan; nominated and
elected at large; Mayor
nominated and directly elected,
serving 2 years as deputy mayor
before serving 2 years as mayor.
Terms are 4 years overlapping.
Non-partisan; mayor nominated
and elected at large to serve a 4-
year term. Commissioners either
nominated and elected at large
OR nominated and elected from a
ward OR nominated from a ward
and elected at large depending on
sub-option approved.
Depending on the sub-option
chosen by voters, electing
commissioners from wards
may increase geographic
representation from across
the city.
c. Compensation
(2.04)
Commission sets compensation
with guiding rules
Compensation Board is assigned
and suggests compensation
This provides for increased
conversation about how
commissioners are
compensated
d. Vacancies
(2.06)
Permanent vacancy filled by
MCA statute within 30 days
Permanent vacancy filled by MCA
statute within 60 days and
requires increased public
engagement
The MCA limits any further
edits
4 Presiding Officer
(section 2.03) Mayor chairs commission commission will appoint a vice
mayor from among themselves
vice mayor will preside over
meetings during short term
absence of mayor
a. Duties of
Mayor
voting member of commission;
recognized as head of city gov't;
does NOT have administrative
duties
no change no change
15
7
Characteristics Present form of Government Proposed form of Government Evaluative Comments
5
Chief
Administrative
Officer (Article
III)
City manager retain city manager structure no change
6
Service Delivery
Structure (Sec
4.01)
City commission establishes
departments. Services performed
by departments under
supervision of the city manager
no change no change
7
Participation/
Appointments to
Boards (Sec.
4.07), and
Neighborhood
Council (4.06)
City commission establishes
boards and appoints members
except those where statute
mandates appointment by the
mayor.
New Public Engagement Article
strengthening the role of boards,
Neighborhood Associations and
Inter-Neighborhood Councils in
local governance
strengthen role of public
engagement in local
governance by adding article
to charter and clarify
role/purpose of neighborhood
associations and advisory
boards.
8
Financial
Administration
(Article V)
specifies that Municipal Budget
Act pertains; adds requirements
for establishing minimum general
fund reserve by ordinance and
for annual CIP budget
no change no change
9
Initiatives,
referendums and
recalls (Sec
6.03)
Provides for initiative, citizen
referendum and recall as per
state law. Specifies # of
signatures required on a petition
can be adjusted to account for
the # of inactive voters as
certified by the county election
administrator.
no change no change
10
Board of
Ethics/conflict of
interest (Sec
7.01)
Provides that the commission
shall appoint an ethics board and
requires annual education for
elected officials, employees, and
board members on an annual
basis.
no change no change
11
16
8
D. Justification and Reasons for the Proposed Amendments
There are several edits that have been considered and presented in the amended charter to be
brought before the voters on November 3, 2026. A 2006 and 2026 draft comparison document
that helps voters understand the differences being proposed, and these are provided on the
website, www.bozemanstudy.com. Each edit has been carefully explored through public
engagement, study of other community government systems and exploring best practice for a
government the size and scope of the City of Bozeman. Each recommendation attempts to address
the following criteria:
● How well does our form of local government serve our community?
● Is the current form of government responsive and efficient in serving our community?
● What are the most pressing issues our community faces and would changes to the charter
help address them?
● Will the struggles and challenges your local government faces be improved by changing the
power, form, or plan of government?
Below is an explanation of the key suggested amendments to the existing charter and includes why
each amendment is preferable. For additional context and understanding, please see the research and
public comment posted on the website at www.bozemanstudy.com
1. Powers and Form of Government will stay the same. Bozeman will retain its charter form
of government with self-governing powers and will operate under.an amended charter.
i. What: Self-governing powers define a local government’s authority to make
decisions that are not prohibited by the legislature including the authority to “provide
any services or perform any functions not expressly prohibited by the Montana
Constitution, state law or its charter” (7 1-101 through 7-1-103, MCA). Without self-
governing powers, a Montana city or county government may provide only those
services which have been authorized by state law. Self-governing powers can also
include an adopted charter, and this process allows an amendment to the existing
charter.
ii. Why: In 1996, the Bozeman Study Commission asked voters to move from a
general-governing to a self-governing form because they believed that “Adopting self
- governing powers giving greater flexibility in shaping our governmental structure,
more responsibility to recognize and deal with our own problems, and greater power
to solve these problems.” The 2006 Bozeman Study Commission proposed, and
voters adopted a charter that would guide the structure and function of the City of
Bozeman. Self-governing powers with the charter form provide city government
greater flexibility and authority to address the complex challenges of a growing,
dynamic city.
2. Structure of Government will stay the same. Commission/manager structure will stay the
same with an amended charter.
i. What: The commission-manager structure of government is characterized by a
simpler organizational structure, the clearly defined responsibilities and powers of the
hired professional manager, and by the sharply defined policy-making role of the
17
9
elected commission. This structure suffers less from the shared and blurred
executive powers of the mayor in the Commission-Executive form.
ii. Why: The commission-manager form of government is characterized by a simpler
organizational structure, the clearly defined responsibilities and powers of the hired
professional manager, and by the clearly defined policy-making role of the elected
commission. This form suffers less from the shared and blurred executive powers of
the mayor in the commission-executive form. The full-time professional manager, a
professionally trained administrator, is directly accountable to an elected
commission. This accountability can bring a measure of competent internal
management efficiency, fiscal stability, and more efficient municipal service delivery
to local governmental operations. Greater efficiency can be achieved through single-
point professional management, although at the expense of governmental
responsiveness.
3. Three Branches of Government. In the preamble it states that there are three branches of
government: executive, legislative and judicial. There is a new Article IV with general
provisions of the Judicial Branch.
i. What: In the existing charter, the municipal court was listed briefly as a department
of the City of Bozeman. These changes help clarify the existence of the three
distinct branches of government.
ii. Why: This clarity had been omitted in the existing charter, so clear charter language
has been added to affirm the court's role as an integral and independent branch of
city government and help ensure it is consistently recognized and treated as such. In
addition, it provides clarity, promotes institutional consistency, and reinforces the
expectation that the judicial branch be treated as an equal partner in the municipal
government rather than an afterthought.
4. Election of Mayor. Bozeman currently has a system where the mayor is elected for 4 years
but serves as the deputy mayor for the first 2 years of the term. This will be changed to
remove the deputy mayor position.
i. What: The mayor will be elected at large and will serve a 4-year term. There will no
longer be a deputy mayor. Every two years, the city commission will select a vice
mayor to serve in the occasional absence of the mayor.
ii. Why: The inclusion of a deputy mayor is confusing for the public because they elect
the mayor who then must wait 2 years to serve as mayor. In addition, it is difficult for
the mayor to participate in leadership opportunities and develop intergovernmental
relationships in a meaningful way because they only have 2 years serving as mayor.
5. Commission Vacancies. When a commission seat becomes permanently vacant, there
was a desire to make the process of filling this seat more robust with increased public
engagement.
i. What: Currently, the city commissioners vote independently to appoint a new
commissioner within 30 days of the vacancy. The amended charter says that there
will now be a requirement to fill the vacant position within 60 days (instead of 30) and
the city commissioners must hold a public forum with potential applicants for the
vacant commission or mayoral position.
18
10
ii. Why: This will require a forum of public engagement and input for the process and
expand the time available to complete this important task from 30 to 60 days. The
intention is to engage the public in the process, by providing information on the
candidates being considered and allowing the public to provide input to the city
commissioners regarding their consideration.
6. Article VIII Public Engagement has been added with additional clarity on the form and
function of neighborhood associations, Inter-Neighborhood Council and city boards.
i. What: The existing charter has sections on neighborhood associations and city
boards, but more specific language and requirements were requested by community
members. Therefore, there is a new Article VIII dedicated to language that increases
public engagement.
ii. Why: There was very clear indication that residents had a sense of not being heard
or engaged during decisions made by the city commission and want improved
transparency and two-way dialogue.
E. Minority Report (if needed)
F. Appendices
Exhibit A: Certificate of Existing Form of Government
Existing Form
The City of Bozeman currently operates under the charter form with the commission- manager structure
and self-government powers under Title 7, Chapter 3, Part 7 of the Montana Code Annotated.
Proposed Form
The proposed form of government is the charter form with the commission-manager structure and self-
government powers under Title 7, Chapter 3, Part 7 of the Montana Code Annotated. The proposed
charter has been amended to provide: sub-options for the voters to decide whether to expand the size
of the city commission and whether to move to the ward-based election of commissioners, the addition
of an article on public engagement, and other modifications the study commission feels will enhance
operations.
We, the Study Commissioners of the City of Bozeman, do
hereby certify that this is the date of the special election
approved by the City of Bozeman Local Government Study
Commission. In testimony whereof, we set our hands.
Done at Bozeman, Montana this 8th day of August 2026.
Respectfully submitted, City of Bozeman Local
Government Study Commission.
Carson Taylor, Chair
19
11
Becky Franks, Vice Chair
Deanna Campbell
Barb Cestero
Jan Strout
__________________________________________
Attest, City Clerk Mike Maas
Exhibit B: Certificate of the Amended Charter
FOR THE CITY OF BOZEMAN
AMENDED CHARTER 2026
PREAMBLE
We, the people of the City of Bozeman, under the constitution and laws of the State of Montana, in order
to secure the benefits of local self‑government and to provide for an honest, accountable, and responsive
commission‑manager government, do hereby adopt this charter and confer upon the city the following
powers, subject to the following restrictions, and prescribed by the following procedures and
governmental structure. By this action, we affirm the values of self-governance, representative
democracy, human rights, professional management, leadership, public engagement, and regional
cooperation.
ARTICLE I
POWERS OF THE CITY
Section 1.01. Powers of the City.
The City of Bozeman shall have all powers possible for a city with self-governing powers to have under
the constitution and laws of the State of Montana as fully and completely as though they were specifically
enumerated in this charter. The city exercises three branches of government: legislative, executive and
judicial powers.
20
12
Section 1.02. Construction.
a) Powers. The powers of the city under this charter shall be construed liberally in favor of the city,
and the specific mention of particular powers in the charter shall not be construed as limiting in
any way the general power granted in this article.
b) Priority Construction. As provided by Article XI, Section 5, of the Constitution of Montana,
provisions herein establishing executive, legislative, and administrative structure and organization
are superior to statutory provisions.
Section 1.03. Intergovernmental Relations.
The City of Bozeman may participate by contract or otherwise with any governmental entity of the State
of Montana or any other state or states or the United States in the performance of any activity which one
or more of such entities has the authority to undertake.
ARTICLE II
CITY COMMISSION
Section 2.01. General Powers and Duties.
All powers of the city shall be vested in the city commission, except as otherwise provided by law or this
charter, and the commission shall provide for the exercise thereof and for the performance of all duties
and obligations imposed on the city by law.
Section 2.02. Eligibility, Terms, and Composition.
a) Eligibility. Only registered voters as defined pursuant to Article IV, Section 2 of the Montana
Constitution, whose principal residence is in the City of Bozeman, shall be eligible to hold the
office of commission member or mayor.
b) Terms. The term of office of elected officials shall be four years elected in accordance with Article
VII.
Sub-option 1: Whether the City Commission is comprised of four or six commissioners.
The Study Commission presents this question to the voters, allowing voters to determine whether the city
commission should be composed of four or six members, in addition to the mayor. In this sub-option,
voters will choose whether to retain the current number of commissioners at four or whether to add two
additional commissioners for a total of six commissioners.
21
13
This sub-option will only take effect if the amended charter is also approved by the voters. The selection
receiving the most votes will be included in this charter if the amended charter is approved by the voters.
The text of the option not chosen by voters will be deleted from the charter following the election.
SELECTION 1:
c) Composition. The commission shall be composed of four members elected by the voters of the
city in accordance with provisions of Article VII, and the mayor elected as provided in §2.03(b).
OR
SELECTION 2:
c) Composition. The commission shall be composed of six members elected by the voters of the
city in accordance with provisions of Article VII, and the mayor elected as provided in §2.03(b).
Sub-option 2: Whether City Commissioners are elected at large or are elected by wards
The Study Commission presents this question to the voters allowing voters to determine whether the
members of the city commission, excluding the mayor, are elected at-large or by wards. This question is
independent of the question of whether the commission consists of four or six members. If the voters
determine to elect city commissioners by wards, this charter must contain the method of election to be
determined by the voters in Sub-option 3 (Section 7.03), below.
This sub-option will only take effect if the amended charter is also approved by the voters. The selection
below that receives the most votes will be included in this charter if this charter is approved by the voters.
The text of the option not chosen by voters will be deleted from the charter. If voters choose to elect
commissioners at-large (Selection 1), the text of Sections 7.03 and 7.04 below will also be deleted from
the charter.
SELECTION 1:
d) Commissioners Elected At-Large. City commissioners shall be elected at-large.
OR
SELECTION 2:
d) Commissioners Elected by Wards. City commissioners shall be elected by wards pursuant
to Section 7.03.
Section 2.03. Mayor
22
14
a) Powers and Duties. The mayor shall be a voting member of the city commission and shall attend
and preside at meetings of the commission; represent the city in intergovernmental relationships;
present an annual state of the city message; add an item to the commission agenda prepared by
the city manager; assign, subject to the consent of commission, agenda items to sub-committees
of the commission; and perform other duties specified by the commission. The mayor shall be
recognized as head of the city government for all ceremonial purposes and by the governor for
purposes of military law but shall have no administrative duties and shall not interfere with the
administration of the city as provided in §2.05(c), below. The mayor shall not have any
appointment power to city boards except where required by state law.
b) Mayor Elected At Large. At a regular city election, the voters of the city shall elect a mayor at
large for a term of four years.
c) Appointing a Vice Mayor. In January following each regular city election, the commission shall
appoint a vice mayor from among its members who shall serve and function as mayor during the
absence of the mayor. The vice mayor shall serve a term of two years which ends at the beginning
of the first regularly scheduled meeting in January following the next regular city election.
Section 2.04. Compensation; Expenses.
The city commission shall appoint a city compensation board to recommend to the city commission the
annual salaries of the mayor and commissioners. The compensation board shall include: two
commissioners who will be appointed by the city commission; the city’s financial director; and four
residents who are registered voters and have their primary residence in the city. The two commissioners
and financial director shall serve as non-voting, ex officio members. Meetings of the compensation board
shall be open to the public and publicly noticed.
The compensation board recommends compensation for commissioners and the mayor to the city
commission, taking into consideration the duties and obligations of the commission. The city commission
shall adopt salaries for the mayor and commissioners by ordinance prior to the filing period for the next
municipal election. No ordinance to increase such salary shall become effective until the date of
commencement of the terms of commission members elected at the next municipal election.
The mayor and commission members shall receive reimbursement for their actual ordinary and
necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties of office.
Section 2.05. Prohibitions.
a) Holding Other Office. Except where authorized by law, no commission member shall hold any
other elected public office during the term for which the member was elected to the commission.
No commission member shall hold any other city office or city employment during the term for
which the member was elected to the commission. No former commission member shall hold any
compensated appointive office or employment with the city until one year after the expiration of
the term for which the member was elected to the commission, unless granted a waiver by the
board of ethics. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the commission from
selecting any current or former commission member to represent the city on the governing board
of any regional or other intergovernmental agency, or any city board.
23
15
b) Appointments and Removals. Neither the city commission nor any of its members shall in any
manner control or demand the appointment or removal of any city administrative officer or
employee whom the city manager or any subordinate of the city manager is empowered to
appoint, but the commission may express its views and fully and freely discuss with the city
manager anything pertaining to appointment and removal of such officers and employees.
c) Interference with Administration. Except for the purpose of inquiries, and investigations under
Section 2.09, the commission or its members shall communicate with city officers and employees
who are subject to the direction and supervision of the city manager through the city manager,
and neither the commission nor its members shall give orders to any such officer or employee,
either publicly or privately.
Section 2.06. Vacancies; Forfeiture of Office; Filling of Vacancies.
a) Vacancies. The office of a commission member or mayor shall become vacant upon the
officeholder’s death, resignation, or removal from office or forfeiture of office in any manner
authorized by law. If the mayor is incapacitated, dies, resigns from office, or is removed from
office, the vice mayor shall succeed as mayor until the next municipal election; and the
commission vacancy created therein shall be filled pursuant to this section. A new vice mayor
shall be appointed as provided for in §2.03(c).
b) Forfeiture of Office. The mayor or a commissioner shall forfeit that office if the mayor or
commissioner:
1) Fails to meet or maintain the eligibility requirements,
2) Violates any provisions expressly prohibited in this charter,
3) Is convicted of a felony, or
4) Fails to attend three consecutive regular meetings of the commission without being excused
by the commission.
c) Filling of Vacancies. A vacancy in the city commission shall be filled within 60 days of the
occurrence of the vacancy by vote of the existing city commissioners. Commissioners must hold
a public forum with applicants for the vacant commission or mayor position. This appointment will
be in place until the next municipal election. The vacancy shall otherwise be filled, pursuant to
state law.
Section 2.07. Judge of Qualifications.
The city commission shall be the judge of the grounds for forfeiture of a member's office, pursuant to
§2.06(b). To exercise these powers, the commission shall have power to subpoena witnesses, administer
oaths and require the production of evidence. A member charged with conduct constituting grounds for
forfeiture of office shall be entitled to a public hearing on demand and notice of such hearing shall be
published in one or more newspapers of general circulation in the city pursuant to state law.
Section 2.08. City Clerk.
24
16
The city commission or the city manager, as designated by ordinance, shall appoint an officer of the city
who shall have the title of city clerk. The city clerk shall give notice of commission meetings to its members
and the public, keep the journal of its proceedings and perform such other duties as are assigned by this
charter, by the commission or by state law.
Section 2.09. Investigations.
The city commission may make investigations into the affairs of the city and the conduct of any city
department, office, or agency and for this purpose may subpoena witnesses, administer oaths, take
testimony, and require the production of evidence. Failure or refusal to obey a lawful order issued in the
exercise of these powers by the commission shall be a misdemeanor punishable pursuant to state law.
Section 2.10. Procedure.
The city commission shall, by ordinance, establish its rules of procedure and time and place of meetings,
in accordance with state law.
Section 2.11. Action Requiring Ordinance.
In addition to other acts required by law or by specific provision of this charter to be done by ordinance,
those acts of the city commission shall be by ordinance which:
1) Adopt or amend an administrative code or establish, alter, or abolish any city
department, office, or agency;
2) Provide for a fine or other penalty or establish a rule or regulation for violation of which
a fine or other penalty is imposed;
3) Levy a new tax;
4) Grant, renew, or extend a franchise;
5) Convey or lease or authorize the conveyance or lease of any lands of the city;
6) Amend or repeal any ordinance previously adopted; or
7) Adopt, with or without amendment, ordinances proposed under the initiative power.
Acts other than those referred to in the preceding sentence may be done either by ordinance or by
resolution.
Section 2.12. Ordinances in General.
Ordinances, regular, emergency, and technical regulations, will be proposed, published, and approved
in accordance with state law. In addition to the requirements of state law, ordinances, administrative
regulations, resolutions, and the Bozeman Municipal Code will be published electronically.
ARTICLE III
CITY MANAGER
Section 3.01. Appointment; Qualifications; Compensation.
25
17
The city commission, by a majority vote of its total membership, shall appoint a city manager for an
indefinite term and fix the manager's compensation. The city manager shall be appointed solely based
on education and experience in the accepted competencies and practices of local government
management. The manager need not be a resident of the city or state at the time of appointment but may
reside outside the city while in office only with the approval of the commission. The commission must
conduct an annual comprehensive performance evaluation of the city manager.
Section 3.02. Removal.
If the city manager declines to resign at the request of the city commission, the city commission may
suspend the manager by a resolution approved by the majority of the total membership of the city
commission. This resolution shall set forth the reasons for suspension and proposed removal. A copy of
such resolution shall be served immediately upon the city manager. The city manager shall have fifteen
days in which to reply thereto in writing and, upon request, shall be offered a public hearing, which shall
occur not earlier than ten days nor later than fifteen days after such hearing is requested. After the public
hearing, if one is requested, and after full consideration, the city commission, by a majority vote of its
total membership, may adopt a final resolution of removal. The city manager shall continue to receive full
salary until the effective date of the final resolution of removal.
Section 3.03. Acting City Manager.
The city manager shall designate a city officer or employee to exercise the powers and perform the duties
of city manager during the manager's temporary absence or disability. The city commission may revoke
such designation at any time and appoint another officer of the city to serve until the city manager returns.
Section 3.04. Powers and Duties of the City Manager.
The city manager shall be the chief executive officer of the city, responsible to the commission for the
management of all city affairs placed in the manager's charge by or under this charter. The city manager
shall:
1) Appoint and suspend or remove all city employees and appointive administrative
officers provided for by or under this charter, except as otherwise provided by law, this
charter, or personnel rules adopted pursuant to this charter. The city manager may
authorize any administrative officer subject to the manager's direction and supervision
to exercise these powers with respect to subordinates in that officer's department,
office or agency;
2) Direct and supervise the administration of all departments, offices, and agencies of
the city, except as otherwise provided by this charter or by law;
3) Attend all city commission meetings unless excused. The city manager shall have the
right to take part in discussion but shall not vote;
4) See that all laws, provisions of this charter, and acts of the city commission subject to
enforcement by the city manager or by officers subject to the manager's direction and
supervision are faithfully executed;
5) Prepare and submit the annual budget and capital program to the city commission,
and implement the final budget approved by commission to achieve the goals of the
city;
26
18
6) Submit to the city commission and make available to the public a complete report on
the finances and administrative activities of the city at the end of each fiscal year;
7) Make such other reports as the city commission may require concerning operations;
8) Keep the city commission fully advised as to the financial condition and future needs
of the city;
9) Make recommendations to the city commission concerning the affairs of the city and
facilitate the work of the city commission in developing policy;
10) Provide staff support services for the mayor and commission members subject to the
provisions regarding the city clerk under §2.08;
11) Assist the commission in developing long term goals for the city and strategies to
implement these goals;
12) Encourage and provide staff support for regional and intergovernmental cooperation;
13) Promote partnerships among commission, staff, and citizens in developing public
policy and building a sense of community;
14) Perform such other duties as are specified in this charter or may be required by the
city commission;
15) Prepare the commission agenda; and
16) Appoint members of temporary advisory committees established by the city manager
or the city commission.
ARTICLE IV
JUDICIAL BRANCH
Section 4.01. General Provisions.
Pursuant to the Constitution and the laws of Montana, the Municipal Court exercises judicial authority on
behalf of the City. The Court, in exercising its judicial authority, shall act separately and independently
from the legislative and executive branches.
ARTICLE V
DEPARTMENTS, OFFICES AND AGENCIES
Section 5.01. General Provisions.
a) Creation of Departments. The city commission may establish city departments, offices, or
agencies in addition to those created by this charter and may prescribe the functions of all
departments, offices, and agencies. No function assigned by this charter to a particular
department, office, or agency may be discontinued or, unless this charter specifically so provides,
assigned to any other.
b) Direction by City Manager. All departments, offices, and agencies under the direction and
supervision of the city manager shall be administered by an officer appointed by and subject to
the direction and supervision of the city manager. With the consent of commission, the city
27
19
manager may serve as the head of one or more such departments, offices, or agencies or may
appoint one person as the head of two or more of them.
Section 5.02. Personnel System.
Consistent with all applicable federal and state laws, all appointments and promotions of city officers and
employees shall be made solely based on merit and qualifications demonstrated by a valid and reliable
examination or other evidence of competence.
Section 5.03. Legal Officer.
a) Appointment. There shall be a legal officer of the city appointed by the city manager subject to
confirmation by the city commission.
b) Role. The legal officer shall serve as chief legal adviser to the commission, the manager and all
city departments, offices and agencies shall represent the city in all legal proceedings and shall
perform any other duties prescribed by state law, by this charter, or by ordinance.
Section 5.04. Land Use, Development, and Environmental Planning.
Consistent with all applicable federal and state laws with respect to land use, development, and
environmental planning, the city shall:
1) Designate an agency or agencies to carry out the planning function and such
decision‑making responsibilities as may be required by law;
2) Adopt a land use plan and determine to what extent zoning and other land use
regulations must be consistent with the plan;
3) Determine to what extent the land use plan and zoning and other land use regulations
must be consistent with regional plan(s); and
4) Adopt development regulations to implement the land use plan.
The designated agency, the city manager, and the mayor and commission shall seek to act in cooperation
with other jurisdictions and organizations in their region to promote integrated approaches to regional
issues.
ARTICLE VI
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
Section 6.01. Fiscal Year.
The fiscal year of the city shall begin and end as provided by state law.
Section 6.02. Submission of Budgets and Budget Message.
The city manager shall submit to the city commission a preliminary budget for the ensuing fiscal year and
an accompanying message and a final budget, both in a timely manner. The publication requirements
must conform to the provisions of state law for a municipality and be available electronically.
28
20
Section 6.03. Budget Message.
The city manager shall submit a budget message with the recommended budget. The budget message
shall provide an overview of the recommended budget and explain its relationship with the city’s strategic
priorities, organizational goals, service objectives, and fiscal sustainability. The budget message shall
identify significant operational, financial, and policy issues addressed in the recommended budget and
explain material changes from the prior year. The message may also discuss economic, demographic,
legislative, organizational, or other factors affecting the city’s financial condition, operations, or service
delivery.
The budget message shall be prepared in accordance with applicable law and informed by generally
recognized principles of government budgeting, financial management, and fiscal transparency.
Section 6.04. Budget.
a) Statutory Provisions. The preliminary operating budget, the final budget, and amended budgets
must be prepared in accordance with state laws governing municipal budgets as then in effect.
b) Unreserved Fund Balance. A minimum level of budgeted general fund unreserved fund balance
shall be established by ordinance and shall be in accordance with industry recommended practice
on appropriate levels of unreserved fund balance in the general fund. This provision does not limit
appropriations in case of emergency pursuant to state law.
Section 6.05. Adjusting Appropriations.
a) Reduction of Appropriations. In addition to the requirements of state law, if at any time during
the fiscal year it appears probable to the city manager that the revenues or fund balances
available will be insufficient to finance the expenditures for which appropriations have been
authorized, the manager shall report to the city commission without delay, indicating the estimated
amount of the deficit, any remedial action taken by the manager, and recommendations as to any
other steps to be taken. The commission shall then take such further action as it deems necessary
to prevent or reduce any deficit and, for that purpose, it may by ordinance reduce or eliminate one
or more appropriations.
b) Transfer of Appropriations. In addition to the requirements of state law, at any time during or
before the fiscal year, the city commission may by resolution transfer part or all of the
unencumbered appropriation balance from one department, fund, service, or organizational unit
to the appropriation for other departments or organizational units or a new appropriation as
provided by state law. The city manager may transfer funds among programs within a department,
fund, service, or organizational unit and shall report such transfers to the commission in writing in
a timely manner.
c) Limitation; Effective Date. In addition to the requirements of state law, no appropriation for debt
service may be reduced or transferred, except to the extent that the debt is refinanced and less
debt service is required, and no appropriation may be reduced below any amount required by law
to be appropriated or by more than the amount of the unencumbered balance thereof. The
29
21
supplemental and emergency appropriations and reduction or transfer of appropriations
authorized by this section may be made effective immediately upon adoption.
Section 6.06. Administration and Fiduciary Oversight of the Budget.
The city commission shall provide by ordinance the procedures for administration and fiduciary oversight
of the budget.
Section 6.07. Capital Program.
a) Submission to City Commission. The city manager shall prepare and submit to the city
commission a multi‑year capital program in alignment with the budget process and at least
biennially.
b) Contents. The capital program shall include the following and be revised and extended each year
regarding capital improvements still pending or in process of construction or acquisition.:
1) A clear general summary of its contents;
2) Identification of the long‑term goals of the community;
3) A list of all capital improvements and other capital expenditures which are
proposed to be undertaken during the fiscal years next ensuing, with
appropriate supporting information as to the necessity for each;
4) Cost estimates and recommended time schedules for each improvement or
other capital expenditure;
5) Method of financing upon which each capital expenditure is to be reliant;
6) The estimated annual cost of operating and maintaining the facilities to be
constructed or acquired;
7) A commentary on how the plan addresses the sustainability of the community
and the region of which it is a part; and
8) Methods to measure outcomes and performance of the capital plan related to
the long‑term goals of the community.
Section 6.08. City Commission Action on Capital Program.
a) Notice and Hearing. The city commission shall publish the general summary of the capital
program and a notice of public hearing consistent with the requirements of state law.
b) Adoption. The city commission by resolution shall adopt the capital program for the ensuing fiscal
year, with or without amendment after the public hearing.
Section 6.09. Independent Audit.
The city commission shall provide for an independent annual audit of all city accounts in accordance with
state law and may provide for more frequent audits as it deems necessary. Such audits should be
conducted in accordance with current industry standards. No accountant or firm may provide any other
services to the city during the time it is retained to provide independent audits to the city; however, the
city commission may waive this requirement by a unanimous vote at a public meeting.
30
22
ARTICLE VII
ELECTIONS
Section 7.01. Initiative; Citizen Referendum, and Recall.
The powers of initiative, citizen referendum, and recall are hereby reserved to the electors of the city as
provided by state law. In verifying petitions for initiatives and referendums, the percentage of signatures
required under state law shall be reduced in proportion to the number of inactive registered voters as
most recently certified by the county election administrator pursuant to state law.
Section 7.02. City Elections.
a) Regular Elections. Regular city elections shall be held and administered in odd numbered years,
pursuant to state law. Candidates shall run for office without party designation.
b) Beginning of term. The terms of new commission members shall start at the beginning of the
first regularly scheduled meeting in January after their election.
Sub-option 3: If City Commissioners are elected by wards, whether commissioners representing
a ward will be elected at-large or by voters within the ward.
If voters choose Selection 2 of Sub-Option 2 (§2.02(d)) to elect commissioners by wards), the Study
Commission presents this additional question allowing voters to determine the method of electing
commissioners by ward. Voters will choose whether commissioners elected by ward are elected only by
voters residing within the ward the commissioner represents, or at large by all voters of the city. If voters
choose Selection 1 of Sub-Option 2 (§2.02(d)) to continue electing commissioners at large with no wards),
this sub-option shall have no effect.
This sub-option will only take effect if the amended charter is approved by the voters, and if voters choose
to elect commissioners by wards (§2.02(d)) to elect commissioners by wards). If voters choose to elect
commissioners by wards, the selection below that receives the most votes shall be included in this charter
and the selection not chosen will be deleted. If voters do not choose to establish wards as provided for
in Sub-option 2 (§2.02(d) above), Section 7.04 will also be deleted from the Charter.
Section 7.03. Method of Electing Commission Members.
SELECTION 1:
a) Commission members must reside within the ward which that office of commissioner represents
and shall be elected at large for four‑year terms.
OR
31
23
SELECTION 2:
a) Commission members must reside within the ward which that office of city commissioner
represents and shall be elected for four-year terms only by the electors within the ward in which
they reside.
Section 7.04. Wards; Adjustments of Wards.
a) Number of Wards: There shall be [four or six] city commission wards.
b) Ward Advisory Board: The city commission shall establish a ward advisory board consisting of
five members to recommend ward boundaries. The ward advisory board shall choose a
chairperson from among its members. No member of the ward advisory board shall be
employed by the city or hold any other elected or appointed position in the city. The ward
advisory board must be appointed and must divide the city into [four or six] wards (i) following
adoption of this Charter; (ii) after each decennial census; or (iii) if the city determines that the
population disparity between wards exceeds ten percent (10%).
c) Criteria for establishing/adjusting ward boundaries: The population of city residents within a
ward must be as equal as practicable, with no deviation exceeding ten (10%) percent of the
average population for all city commission wards. Each ward shall be compact, contiguous, use
natural/physical geographic boundaries, and respect precinct, neighborhood, and census
boundaries where possible. A ward may not be established or modified in a way that affects the
term of office of any city commissioner who has been elected. Ward boundaries may not be
changed between the date that is six months prior to a city commissioner’s primary election and
the date of the corresponding general election.
d) Timeline and process: The board shall conduct its work in an open, transparent manner and
shall hold a minimum of two (2) public hearings before finalizing any ward map. Ward
boundaries shall be reviewed within twelve (12) months following the publication of each
decennial federal census thereafter or sooner if the population disparity between wards is found
to exceed ten percent (10%). Upon adoption of the boundaries by ordinance, the ward
boundaries shall become legally effective for the next scheduled municipal election. The ward
advisory board’s term shall end upon adoption of the ward boundaries by ordinance of the city
commission.
ARTICLE VIII
ROLE OF PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT IN LOCAL GOVERNANCE
Section 8.01. Public engagement as an essential part of civic infrastructure.
The active, informed, broad-based engagement of community members, both individually and
collectively, is an essential element of healthy civic life and a thriving local democracy.
32
24
Public engagement is an integral part of effective and trusted governance. The city shall ensure
engagement meets the goals and principles of this section. Engagement may include a variety of formats
such as face-to-face meetings, virtual interactions, and online communication. Public engagement in the
creation or amendment of public policy ensures two-way communication between the city and the
community. The city encourages collaboration in public engagement efforts with other government
jurisdictions and authorities, neighborhood associations, city boards, community-based organizations,
civic groups, and residents.
Section 8.02. Governmental structures to support and coordinate engagement.
Neighborhood associations, the Inter Neighborhood Council and city boards are essential partners in
municipal decision-making. The city shall adapt existing governmental structures, establish new
governmental structures, or both, to oversee, support, coordinate, track, and measure public
engagement.
Section 8.03. Principles of public engagement.
To ensure public engagement centers on the needs and goals of community members, and in
accordance with state law, the city upholds the following principles:
1) Public Participation. Engagement provides opportunities for residents to participate in
matters of significant public interest. The city shall be proactive in outreach to bring in diverse
voices, partner groups, and ideas by using a variety of engagement techniques to make
participation accessible.
2) Transparency. Effective, transparent communication ensures community members can
engage in major decisions regarding public policy, and the city shares results and explains
how public input affects decisions.
3) Accountability. The city shall provide opportunities for public input regarding major decisions.
The city shall explain the purpose, scope, and how input will be considered.
4) Collaboration. Collaboration and communication between residents and city officials support
informed public participation and effective local governance.
Section 8.04. Neighborhood Associations.
a) Purpose. Neighborhoods make valuable contributions to the governance of the city. The city
seeks to strengthen neighborhood participation where it exists and encourage participation city-
wide. The city shall support neighborhood associations in order to promote two-way
communication, encourage public involvement in planning and policy development, strengthen
neighborhood leadership, and enhance transparency and trust. Neighborhood Associations
speak to the needs of their neighborhoods to inform city decision making.
b) Recognition of Neighborhood Associations. The city shall support the creation and
maintenance of resident-led neighborhood associations. The city commission shall establish by
ordinance minimum recognition requirements for neighborhood associations that support
participation, deliberation, and communication with residents and the city. These requirements
shall include, but not be limited to:
1) Clear geographic boundaries developed in partnership with the neighborhood
and the Inter-Neighborhood Council
33
25
2) Membership of a neighborhood association shall be open to all residents,
property owners, business owners, and nonpartisan organizations located
within a neighborhood association’s boundary;
3) A majority of a neighborhood’s leadership, as defined by the neighborhood
association’s bylaws, shall be residents of the neighborhood and only residents
of the neighborhood may serve as the neighborhood association’s Inter-
Neighborhood Council representative.
4) Adherence to established by-laws to ensure democratic voting procedures,
continuity of governance, and the ability for a neighborhood association’s
selected representative to vote as a member of the Inter-Neighborhood
Council;
5) A copy of the neighborhood association’s by-laws and all amendments shall
be filed with the city;
6) Periodic meetings, including an annual meeting;
7) Demonstrating it has a means of regular, accessible, and two-way
communication with all residents in the neighborhood.
8) Capacity to develop and transmit advisory input on neighborhood and citywide
issues.
A neighborhood association shall maintain compliance with the minimum standards established
by ordinance to continue to be recognized by the city and to be eligible to elect members to the
Inter-Neighborhood Council.
c) City Liaison. The City shall designate a full-time, fully dedicated staff member to serve as a
liaison to the Inter-Neighborhood Council and neighborhood associations. The staff liaison shall
support coordination, leadership development, training, communication, and assist in facilitating
participatory planning, budgeting, and policy engagement processes.
d) Inter-Neighborhood Council. There is hereby established an Inter-Neighborhood Council to be
composed of representatives selected by each recognized neighborhood association.
1) Purpose and Role. The Inter-Neighborhood Council shall provide a forum for
neighborhood associations to come together, deliberate, share information, and
develop recommendations to the city commission and city manager, on
neighborhood and city-wide issues.
2) The Inter-Neighborhood Council shall follow the Code of Ethics as developed by
the City of Bozeman.
3) The Inter-Neighborhood Council shall adopt by-laws governing the conduct of
business emphasizing deliberation, transparency and participation. Such by-laws
shall be approved by the city commission, or as designated by ordinance.
4) A vacancy for the Inter-Neighborhood Council shall be filled by the affected
neighborhood association.
5) The city shall appoint a city commissioner as a non-voting liaison to the Inter-
Neighborhood Council.
6) The Inter-Neighborhood Council shall meet on a regular basis to foster dialogue
between neighborhoods and the city commission and city manager.
34
26
7) The City shall consult the Inter-Neighborhood Council during the formative stages
of citywide planning efforts, policy initiatives, and budget discussions that affect
neighborhood associations.
8) The city commission and city manager shall provide timely responses to
recommendations submitted by the Inter-Neighborhood Council, including an
explanation of how such input was considered and the reasons for divergence.
9) The staff liaison shall work with the Inter-Neighborhood Council to expand the
neighborhood program and develop boundaries to seek to include more residents
in a Neighborhood Association.
Section 8.05. City Boards.
The city commission may create boards, commissions, agencies or committees (“City Boards”) as are
required by state law or as desired by the city commission.
a) Purpose. City boards assist the city by providing guidance, representing community perspectives,
increasing transparency, and reviewing policies. City boards serve as valuable platforms for early
public engagement on issues and decisions. By providing opportunities for resident engagement,
city boards strengthen decision-making and public trust. Unless otherwise required by law, city
boards provide advice and recommendations to the city commission; encourage public
participation in civic affairs; and assist in public education.
b) Powers. Unless otherwise required by law, city boards are advisory only. They have no
administrative authority unless specifically required by law, or interlocal agreement.
1) City boards shall be established, including the purpose of each board and the
number, desired skills and necessary experience of its members. The board,
in collaboration with city staff and commission liaison, shall establish annual
priorities and public engagement processes.
2) Recommendations to the city commission shall reflect the majority position of
the city board. When appropriate, minority perspectives may be submitted.
c) Appointments, Compensation, Terms and Qualifications.
1) Except as otherwise required by law or authorized by this charter, city boards will
be established by the city commission, and members will be appointed by the
commission or by the mayor when required by law, following public solicitation
advertised at least twice annually or when a vacancy arises.
2) To ensure city boards represent the community, the city shall encourage
participation from residents with relevant expertise, knowledge, experience and
perspectives.
3) Subcommittees of existing boards, commissions, or committees may be appointed
by the city commission without the necessity of public solicitation.
4) The city commission may authorize the city manager to establish special ad hoc
commissions for specific purposes without public advertisement.
5) Except where prohibited by law, the terms on all boards shall be staggered.
35
27
6) Board, commission or committee members shall serve without compensation.
ARTICLE IX
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 9.01. Conflicts of Interest; Board of Ethics.
a) Conflicts of Interest. The use of public office for private gain is prohibited. The city commission
shall implement this prohibition by ordinance, the terms of which shall include, but not be limited
to: acting in an official capacity on matters in which the official has a private financial interest
clearly separate from that of the general public, the acceptance of gifts and other things of value,
acting in a private capacity on matters dealt with as a public official, the use of confidential
information, and appearances by city officials before other city agencies on behalf of private
interests. This ordinance shall include a statement of purpose and shall provide for reasonable
public disclosure of finances by officials with major decision‑making authority over monetary
expenditures and contractual and regulatory matters and, insofar as permissible under state law,
shall provide for fines and imprisonment for violations.
b) Board of Ethics. The city commission shall, by ordinance, establish an independent board of
ethics pursuant to state law. The city commission shall appropriate sufficient funds to the city
manager to provide annual training and education of city officials, city boards, and employees,
regarding the state and city ethics codes. City officials, board members, and employees shall take
an oath to uphold the state and city ethics codes.
Section 9.02. Campaign Finance.
In order to combat the potential for, and appearance of, corruption and to preserve the ability of all
qualified citizens to run for public office, the city shall, insofar as is permitted by state and federal law,
have the authority to enact ordinances designed to limit contributions and expenditures by candidates for
locally elected office. Ordinances pursuant to this section may include but are not limited to limitations on
candidate and candidate committees that affect the amount, time, place, and source of financial and
in‑kind contributions; and voluntary limitations on candidate and candidate committee expenditures tied
to financial or non‑financial incentives.
ARTICLE X
CHARTER AMENDMENT
Section 10.01. Proposal for Amendment.
Amendments to this charter may be framed and proposed:
1) In the manner provided by state law, or
2) By ordinance of the commission containing the full text of the proposed
amendment, or
3) By report of a study commission created pursuant to state law, or
36
28
4) By the voters of the city. Proposal of an amendment by the voters of the city shall
be by petition containing the full text of the proposed amendment and shall be
governed by the same procedures and requirements prescribed in Section 7.03
for initiative petitions until such time as a final determination as to the sufficiency
of the petition is made, except that there shall be no limitation as to subject matter
and that the petition must be signed by registered voters of the city equal to that
required by state law. In verifying petitions, the percentage under state law shall
be applied to only active voters as certified by the county election administrator.
Section 10.02. Election of Amendment.
Upon delivery to the election authorities of the report of a charter commission or delivery by the city clerk
of an adopted ordinance or a petition finally determined sufficient, proposing an amendment pursuant to
Section 10.01, or as otherwise provided by state law, the election authorities shall submit the proposed
amendment to the voters of the city at an election, pursuant to state law.
Section 10.03. Adoption of Amendment.
If a majority of those voting upon a proposed charter amendment vote in favor of it, the amendment shall
become effective at the time fixed in the amendment or, if no time is therein fixed, 30 days after its
adoption by the voters.
ARTICLE XI
TRANSITION AND SEVERABILITY
Section 11.01. Officers, Employees and Elected Officials.
a) Rights and Privileges Preserved. Nothing in this charter except as otherwise specifically
provided, shall affect or impair the rights or privileges of persons who are city officers or
employees at the time of its adoption.
b) Continuance of Office or Employment. Except as specifically provided by this charter if, at the
time this charter takes full effect, a city administrative officer or employee holds any office or
position which is or can be abolished by or under this charter, he or she shall continue in such
office or position until the taking effect of some specific provision under this charter directing that
he or she vacate the office or position. Elected officials serving at the time this charter is approved
by the voters shall continue in office for the balance of their term.
c) Personnel System. An employee holding a city position at the time this charter takes full effect,
who was serving in that same or a comparable position at the time of its adoption, shall not be
subject to competitive tests as a condition of continuance in the same position but in all other
respects shall be subject to the personnel system provided for in Section 5.02.
Section 11.02. Pending Matters.
37
29
All rights, claims, actions, orders, contracts, and legal administrative proceedings shall continue except
as modified pursuant to the provisions of this charter and in each case shall be maintained, carried on,
or dealt with by the city department, office, or agency appropriate under this charter.
Section 11.03. State and Municipal Laws.
All city ordinances, resolutions, orders, and regulations in force when this charter becomes fully effective
shall be updated to conform with this charter pursuant to state law. Any ordinance or resolution required
to be established pursuant to this charter shall be completed as required by state law.
Section 11.04. Schedule.
a) Mayor Election. §2.03(b) shall be effective for the 2029 city election, with the term of the elected
mayor beginning with the first commission meeting in January 2030.
b) Vice Mayor Selection. §2.03(c) shall take effect at the first commission meeting in January 2028
with said vice mayor serving until the beginning of the first commission meeting in January 2030.
c) Sub-options.
1) If the voters determine to increase the number of commission members as provided for in
Sub-option 1, the election of the two new commissioner positions shall be as follows: one
commissioner shall be elected during the 2029 general election to a term of four (4) years and
one commissioner shall be elected during the 2029 general election to a term of two (2) years.
The two-year term position shall be elected to a four-year term beginning in 2031 and
continuing every four years thereafter.
2) If the voters determine to have commissioners represent residents by wards as provided for
in Sub-option 2, the city commission must establish wards as described in Section 7.04 so
that elections occurring at the 2029 general election are based on wards.
(b) Time of Taking Full Effect. The charter shall be in full effect for all purposes pursuant to the
schedule established by state law.
Section 11.05. Severability.
If any provision of this charter is held invalid, the other provisions of the charter shall not be affected. If
the application of the charter or any of its provisions to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the
application of the charter and its provisions to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected.
We, the Study Commissioners of the City of Bozeman, do
hereby certify that this is the proposed plan of government
approved by the Bozeman Local Government Review
Study Commission.
In testimony whereof, we set our hands.
38
30
Done at Bozeman, Montana this ___ day of _______,
2026.
Respectfully submitted,
City of Bozeman Local Government Study Commission
_______________________________________
Carson Taylor, Chair
________________________________________
Becky Franks, Vice Chair
________________________________________
Deanna Campbell
________________________________________
Barb Cestero
_________________________________________
Jan Strout
39
31
Exhibit C: Certificate Establishing the Date of the Election
The amended charter and sub-options proposed by the City of Bozeman Local Government Study
Commission shall be submitted to the voters of Bozeman at a special election to be held in conjunction
with the general election on November 3, 2026.
We, the study commissioners of the City of Bozeman, do
hereby certify that this is the date of the special election
approved by the City of Bozeman Local Government Study
Commission. In testimony whereof, we set our hands.
Done at Bozeman, Montana this 8th day of August 2026.
Respectfully submitted, City of Bozeman Local
Government Study Commission.
Carson Taylor, Chair
Becky Franks, Vice Chair
Deanna Campbell
Barb Cestero
Jan Strout
__________________________________________
Attest, City Clerk Mike Maas
40
32
Exhibit D: Certificate Establishing the Official Ballot
PLEASE VOTE ON ALL ISSUES
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE EXISTING CHARTER FORM OF GOVERNMENT
Vote for one:
FOR the current charter established in 2006.
FOR adoption of the amended charter proposed for the City of Bozeman by the City of
Bozeman Local Government Study Commission.
In addition to voting for the amended charter, there are three sub-options that the voters can choose
from. These will only be applied if the amended charter passes by an affirmative vote.
REVISED PLAN OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT CITY OF BOZEMAN SUB-OPTION 1
Sub-option 1: Vote for one:
Sub-option to be included in the amended Charter, if it is adopted.
Composition of the commission:
FOR Current System: The commission shall be composed of four (4) members elected by the
voters of the city and the mayor.
FOR Expanded System: The commission shall be composed of six (6) members elected by the
voters of the city and the mayor.
REVISED PLAN OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT CITY OF BOZEMAN SUB-OPTION 2
Sub-option 2: Vote for one:
Sub-option to be included in the amended charter, if it is adopted.
Election of commission members:
FOR Existing System: Commissioners Elected At-Large. City commissioners shall be elected
at-large.
FOR Commissioners Elected by Wards. City commissioners shall be elected by wards,
candidates shall reside within the ward from which they are elected.
REVISED PLAN OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT CITY OF BOZEMAN SUB-OPTION 3
Sub-option 3: Vote for one:
Sub-option to be included in the amended charter of government, if it is adopted.
Method of electing city commissioners if the ward system is approved:
FOR Elected By all Qualified Voters: Commission members must reside within the ward which
that office of commissioner represents and shall be elected at large for four-year terms.
FOR Elected By Ward Qualified Voters: Commission members must reside within the ward
which that office of the city commissioner represents and shall be elected for four-year terms
only by the electors within the ward in which they reside.
41
33
Done at Bozeman, Montana this 8th day of August 2026.
Respectfully submitted, City of Bozeman Local
Government Study Commission.
Carson Taylor, Chair
Becky Franks, Vice Chair
Deanna Campbell
Barb Cestero
Jan Strout
__________________________________________
Attest, City Clerk Mike Maas
Exhibit E: Certificate Establishing the Effective Date of the Amended
Charter and Sub-Options should they be approved by the voters
If the amended charter and sub-options proposed by the City of Bozeman Local Government Study
Commission is approved by the voters on November 3, 2026, the amended charter and approved sub-
options shall become effective on July 1, 2027 and implementation will follow as written in Article XI.
We, the Study Commissioners of the City of Bozeman, do
hereby certify that this is the effective date of the amended
charter should it be approved by the voters. In testimony
whereof, we set our hands. Done at Bozeman, Montana
this 8th day of August 2026. Respectfully submitted, City of
Bozeman Local Government Study Commission.
Carson Taylor, Chair
42
34
Becky Franks, Vice Chair
Deanna Campbell
Barb Cestero
Jan Strout
__________________________________________
Attest, City Clerk Mike Maas
Exhibit F: Recommendations from the Study Commission to the City
Commissioners and Staff
In addition to an amended charter, the Bozeman Study Commission has developed recommendations
for the city commissioners and staff to consider. These were developed through exploration with
resident surveys and public engagement. The City of Bozeman is encouraged to adopt and implement
these recommendations but are not required to do so.
i. The city commission should adopt a standard process and criteria for
appointments to fill a commission vacancy, including the new timeline in the
amended charter. This will increase transparency and consistency in decision
making when appointments are made and reduce the perception that a
commission appoints people who are allies or friends.
ii. By resolution, the City of Bozeman should develop a document describing the roles,
responsibilities, obligations and expectations for the mayor and commissioner
position and should review it every 5 years. This will ensure that candidates,
residents and commissioners understand the commitment and duties of the elected
office that is sought.
iii. In the process of hiring a city manager, the commission should discuss with the
candidates the resolutions related to the norms of how the commissioners
communicate with city employees.
iv. City Resolution 5323 was mentioned in public comments regarding city boards.
Because it is a resolution of the city commission, the study commission cannot revise
this resolution. However, it is recommended that the resolution should be reviewed
and revised to address the following issues:
1. The perception that the resolution weakens the effectiveness of city boards
by placing excessive limits on how boards communicate with city officials. In
addition, the “One Body, One Voice” principal places restraints on the flow of
43
35
information from city board members to the city commission, including the
sharing of dissenting opinions.
2. Develop ways to improve better collaboration and communication between
city staff and city boards where members encourage a respectful, free flow of
ideas and information.
3. Add language stating that every 3-5 years the city will review the membership
of city boards so that the membership has the expertise, knowledge, and
experience that is necessary and reflects the community.
4. Improve ways to enable boards to be high achieving by managing their goals,
workplans, and functions with greater autonomy with the trust and guidance
of staff.
v. The city should create a budgetary line with sufficient resources to support the
activities and meetings of neighborhood associations and the Inter-Neighborhood
Council (INC).
vi. The city should work collaboratively with INC to increase participation in
neighborhood associations so that by 2036 a substantial portion of city residents are
included geographically in a neighborhood association. This should include a review
of the existing ordinances establishing INC and the neighborhood associations.
vii. The Inter-Neighborhood Council and neighborhood associations should work with
the City's Department of Community Engagement to explore and develop a
Neighborhood Impact Statement process and forms (NIS). This option can be used
to enhance communication of specific proposals initiated by the individual
neighborhood association and/or INC for the city commission. It is recommended to
reference the model of the Los Angeles City Department of Community
Empowerment's Your Community Impact Statement.
viii. At least once per year, the City should hold a town hall meeting with the community
as another less formal mechanism of public engagement that will help city officials
understand residents’ issues and concerns.
We, the Study Commissioners of the City of Bozeman, do
hereby certify that these are the recommendations
approved by the City of Bozeman Local Government Study
Commission. In testimony whereof, we set our hands.
Done at Bozeman, Montana this 8th day of August 2026.
Respectfully submitted, City of Bozeman Local
Government Study Commission.
Carson Taylor, Chair
Becky Franks, Vice Chair
44
36
Deanna Campbell
Barb Cestero
Jan Strout
__________________________________________
Attest, City Clerk Mike Maas
45
Memorandum
REPORT TO:Study Commission
FROM:Caeleb Heinen, Recording Secretary
Mike Maas, Ex Officio
Jan Strout, Study Commissioner
Carson Taylor, Study Commission Chair
SUBJECT:Ballot Education Engagement Timeline
MEETING DATE:July 30, 2026
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Citizen Advisory Board/Commission
RECOMMENDATION:Review a Ballot Education Plan provided by the Study Commission's hired
firm Danegeld, including brand messaging and outreach events.
STRATEGIC PLAN:1.1 Outreach: Continue to strengthen and innovate in how we deliver
information to the community and our partners.
BACKGROUND:Danegeld has been retained for ballot education services. This item is to
finalize the plan and approach for that effort.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:Commissioner of Political Practices incidental committee will need to be
formed.
ALTERNATIVES:As per the Study Commission
FISCAL EFFECTS:This plan has already been approved and paid by previous Study Commission
action.
Attachments:
BZNSTUDY Draft Presentation 072126.pdf
BSC Talking Points FAQs.pdf
BSC - Ballot Education - Active Electorate Engagement Budget
- Engagement Timeline.pdf
Outreach Engagement Lists for Bozeman City Study
Commission - updated 7.27.26.pdf
Report compiled on: July 27, 2026
46
with the
Bozeman Study Commission
47
Bozeman’s
Charter is on
the ballot
48
Our current City Charter1 was
adopted by voters in 20062.
Bozeman’s Charter is our city’s governing
document. It outlines our government structure,
the powers and responsibilities of officials, and
how the city will be run.
The charter is now 20 years old. Bozeman has
changed a lot in that time.
49
Once in a decade1, voters can
choose to undergo a review
process2 for our city charter.
Montana’s Constitution grants this right to
all of its cities.
The last review was conducted by the Study
Commission in 2004. Their recommendations
were adopted in our 2006 charter.
50
In 2024, voters chose to conduct
this review process, and elected
five residents1 to serve as
members of a Study Commission2.
Deanna Campbell, Barb Cestero, Becky Franks,
Jan Strout, Carson Taylor
The local government study commission is
an elected body responsible for overseeing
the review process.
51
what has the
study commission
been doing?
52
Study Commission members reviewed the
Structure Form++Processes
of our local government
53
Public engagement
has been our priority
289
written public comments
500+
survey respondents
40+
public meetings
public process means public engagement
54
what’s on
the ballot?
55
Adopt the Study Commission’s proposed charter?
Yes No
Amended 2026 charter will take effect1
30 days after its adoption
Retain 2006 charter
In 2034, voters may elect to
initiate the local government
study process againHow many city commissioners
will the city have?
How will city commissioners
be elected?
Keep 4
commissioners
Expand to 6
commissioners
At large (current)By ward
Will there be residency
requirements for voters?
Yes
Voters must reside within the ward
No
Voters can reside anywhere within city limits
certain amendments may take effect at different times as specified in the charter language
56
election day is
November 3rd.
Stay informed by going to
bozemanstudy.com
57
Talking Points - Proposed Amended Charter
If you only say ONE thing: “Go to bozemanstudy.com to read the 2026 Amended
Charter and Report”
● General information
○ Bozeman voters approved a local government study in the 2024 General
Election, to examine the form, structure, and self-governing powers of the
City of Bozeman under its current City Charter.
○ The Local Government Study Commission has spent the last two years
drafting an Amended Charter and Draft Report on its findings.
○ If the final version of the Proposed Amended Charter is approved for the
2026 General Election, voters in the City of Bozeman will vote on whether
to adopt the Amended Charter with three conditional sub-options on
November 3rd, 2026.
○ The City of Bozeman Study Commission, having thoroughly studied our
current form of government, the alternative forms of government available
under state law, and future governmental needs of the city, recommends
the city retain the current charter form of government with self-governing
powers and a commission-manager structure.
● What are the amendments to the Charter?
○ For a full review of everything in the Proposed Amended Charter, go to
bozemanstudy.com to read the full document and Draft Report.
○ High-level changes include the following:
■ Election of mayor. The mayor will be elected at large and will
serve a 4-year term. There will no longer be a deputy mayor. Every
two years, the city commission will select a vice mayor to serve in
the occasional absence of the mayor.
■ Language has been added that requires the city of Bozeman to
have a Compensation Board meet annually to determine a fair
and reasonable wage for the commissioners and the mayor.
58
■ If there is a vacancy on the City Commission, there will now be a
requirement to fill the vacant position within 60 days (instead of 30)
and the city commissioners must hold a public forum with potential
applicants for the vacant commission or mayoral position.
■ There is a new Article IV with general provisions of the judicial
branch. The 2006 Charter does not devote a full Article to the
judicial branch, and this change was intended to reflect the
importance of all three branches of our government.
■ Public Engagement has been added with additional clarity on the
form and function of Neighborhood Associations,
Inter-Neighborhood Council and City Boards.
● What are we voting on?
○ Exhibit D of the Draft Report contains the ballot language for the
following:
■ Adoption of the Amended Charter or maintaining the 2006 Charter
■ The following sub-options will be on the 2026 General Election
ballot, but will only go into effect if the Amended Charter is
adopted.
● Voters may choose to expand to 6 commissioners + 1
mayor, or keep 4 commissioners + 1 mayor.
● Voters may choose to adopt a ward system where
candidates for City Commission shall reside in the ward
from which they are elected, or keep an at-large system
where all City of Bozeman voters vote on all candidates,
who may live anywhere within the city boundaries.
● This sub-option only applies if a ward system is adopted.
Voters may choose for all City Commissioners to appear on
the ballot for every participating City of Bozeman registered
voter, or only the qualified voters living within a specific
ward may vote for that Ward’s commissioner.
● Why did the Study Commission propose amendments to the Charter?
○ We are recommending an amended charter to address issues and
concerns brought forward in the community, employee and city board
59
surveys, and public input and engagement throughout the study. We
received more than 286 written public comments, held more than 40
public meetings, and the Amended Charter is intended to reflect the input
we received over the past 2 years of engagement.
● What if I just vote for the sub-options?
○ Unless the Amended Charter is adopted, none of the sub-options will go
into effect. That said, if the Amended Charter is adopted, the sub-options
choices with the majority of votes will go into effect. It may be in your
best interest to consider which sub-options you would be interested in,
even if you are not in favor of adopting the new charter.
● What happens if the Amended Charter is not adopted?
○ Bozeman will continue to operate under the 2006 Charter.
● Why are you proposing we keep our current form of government?
○ Feedback throughout the local government study expressed satisfaction
with a self-governing charter form of government with a
commission/manager structure.
● Why are we changing the way we elect the Mayor of Bozeman?
○ Requiring the elected mayor to serve the first two years of their term as
Deputy Mayor has become confusing to the public and shortens the time
of service for the position the mayor is elected to. This change makes the
elected Mayor serve their full term in that office, with a Vice Mayor
selected by and from the City Commission to help fulfill the functions of
the Mayor’s office during an absence.
● Why is there a new article in the Amended Charter for Public Engagement?
○ The public has clearly stated that they want more engagement and a seat
at the table in city government, where Neighborhood Associations, the
Inter-Neighborhood Council and City Boards are provided with increased
opportunity, transparency and two-way communication with city
government. This Article expands existing language from the 2006
Charter to reflect public input throughout the local government study
process.
● Why are there sub-options for the number and methods of electing the City
Commission?
60
○ The City’s exponential growth since 2006 has left some citizens feeling
underrepresented on the city commission. This amended charter presents
residents with several options that may address this issue including the
option to shift to electing commissioners by wards and the option to
expand the number of commissioners from four to six, plus the mayor
who will be voted at large. The Study Commission does not take a
position on how voters should vote on these sub-options, but presents
them to provide meaningful opportunities for the electorate to decide how
they wish to be represented in their government.
● What would the ward system look like if approved in the sub-options?
○ If the sub-options on the ballot pass in the affirmative, the change in how
city commissioners are elected will take effect with the 2029 city election.
○ The Amended Charter contains provisional language in Article VII
describing how the City of Bozeman would be divided into wards if the
ward system is approved by a majority of voters. Wards would be
established by the City Commission, and must contain as close to an
equal proportion of the population as possible to one another.
○ For example, if there are 60,000 people living within the City of Bozeman
when wards are established, and sub-option voting requires 6 wards,
each ward would be drawn to contain as close to 10,000 residents as
possible. If sub-option voting required 4 wards for 60,000 people in the
City of Bozeman, each ward would be drawn to contain as close to
15,000 residents as possible.
61
Video Radio Print Social Events Website
Plan:Ads on broadcast and streaming
running by August 31st
Ads/PSAs on radio by
August 31
~30,000 household mailed
postcard before ballots arrive in
Mid-October
Communicate with Bozeman
residents in a less formal setting to
increase familiarity with the charter
Engage in rich communications at in-person
public events to deepen individual voter
awareness of the ballot question on charter
amendments Election stats: 43,281 voters for last election. ? voters in 2024.
Goals:Reach of >20K, >50%
completion rate (where relevant)Reach of >10K QR code "click through" rate
>25%
10K+ impressions, 10K+ accounts
reached, click through rate to
website and/or profile >1%
Bump in web traffic during and after event,
increase word of mouth in community
Reach as many registered voters as possible. Higher avg time
spent per page (>1min), lower bounce rate (<50%)
Requirements:Metrics from providers Metrics from providers web traffic metrics (see web
column), QR code tracking
Meta ads manager setup/access
and social media account admin
access
web traffic metrics (see web column), QR code
tracking
Access to detailed web traffic metrics: users on site, location,
time spent per page, pages visited
Jul 30 Production Production Production Production Scheduling Design
Jul 31 #054358
Aug 1 #5F2A53
Aug 2 #FF5800
Aug 3 #ABEDE2
Aug 4 #ECB53F
Aug 5 #7A7E20
Aug 6 #FAF8E9
Aug 7 Scheduling
Sweet Pea Festival
Development (need to hear back from dev team)
Aug 8
Aug 9
Aug 10
Aug 11 Deployment Bozeman Farmers Market
Aug 12
Aug 13
Aug 14 Downtown Art Walk
Aug 15 Story Under the Stars
Aug 16
Aug 17
Aug 18 Bozeman Farmers Market
Aug 19
Aug 20
Aug 21
Aug 22
Aug 23
Aug 24 Scheduling Scheduling Scheduling
Aug 25 Bozeman Farmers Market
Aug 26
Aug 27
Aug 28 MSU Catapalooza
Aug 29
Aug 30 Rotary Club: Bike for Better Tomorrows
Aug 31 Deployment Deployment Deployment
Sep 1 Bozeman Farmers Market
Sep 2
Sep 3
Sep 4
Sep 5 x
Sep 6
Sep 7
Sep 8 Bozeman Farmers Market
Sep 9
Sep 10
Sep 11 Downtown Art Walk
Sep 12 x
Sep 13
Sep 14
Sep 15
Sep 16
Sep 17
Sep 18
Sep 19 x
Sep 20
Sep 21
Sep 22
Sep 23
Sep 24
Sep 25
Sep 26 x
Sep 27
Sep 28
Sep 29 League of Women Voters Forum
Sep 30
Oct 1
Oct 2
Oct 3
62
Oct 4
Oct 5
Oct 6
Oct 7
Oct 8
Oct 9
Oct 10
Oct 11
Oct 12
Estimated Arrival for Mail-In Ballots
Oct 13
Oct 14
Oct 15
Oct 16
Oct 17
Oct 18
Oct 19
Oct 20
Oct 21
Oct 22
Oct 23
Oct 24
Oct 25
Oct 26
Oct 27
Oct 28
Oct 29
Oct 30
Oct 31
Nov 1
Nov 2
Nov 3 Election Day
63
Outreach Distribution List for City of Bozeman Study Commission
City of Bozeman Platforms:
Facebook Event: City Social
Nextdoor Event: City Social
Print and digital ads with the Chronicle: ?
Legal Ad with Chronicle: dclegals@bozeman.net
Calendar event and eNotification: City Study
Page
Bozeman Daily Chronicle
citymanager@dailychronicle.com
Bozeman area media:
Bozeman Daily Chronicle
Guest Editorials – editor@dailychronicle.com
Bozone
Bozeman Magazine
KGLT Radio www.kgltfm.net
KGVM community radio www.kgvm.org
School District
BSD7: casey.bertram@bsd7.org;
trustees@bsd7.org; mike.waterman@bsd7.org
Gallatin County:
jim.doar@gallatin.mt.gov;
Bozeman Downtown Association:
ellie@bozemandowntown.org
Bozeman Chamber of Commerce:
dschliem@bozemanchamber.com;
kclark@bozemanchamber.com
Inter-neighborhood Council:
BARB NE Neighborhood Association: contact is
Amy Hoitsma at aok@mcn.net
BARB: Valley West Neighborhood Association.
Contact is Ann Vinciguerra;
anniewyo@hotmail.com
We should add ALL Neighborhood
Associations. I have added the two that I have
contacts for
Political organizations
Gallatin Valley Sentinel & Save the Gallatin:
info@thegvsentinel.com
Democratic and Republican Gallatin Central
Committees
info@gallatindemocrats.com (Barb)
64
Outreach Distribution List for City of Bozeman Study Commission
Non-partisan community organizations:
Forward Montana: (JAN)
hello@forwardmontana.org
Bozeman Tree Coalition:
bozemantreecoalition@gmail.com
Better Bozeman Coalition:
betterbozemancoalition@gmail.com
Bozeman Business and Professional Women
president@bozemanbpw.org
(JAN)
League of Women Voters - BZN Chapter
president@bozemanleague.org
(BECKY)
BZN City for CEDAW Task Force –
bozeman4cedaw@gmail.com
(JAN)
Bridgercare (JAN)
Contact Us — Bridgercare
HAVEN info@havenmt.org
(JAN)
HRDC info@thehrdc.org
(JAN)
Extreme History Project
info@extremehistpryproject.org
(Carson)
Queer Bozeman
hello@queerbozeman.org
(JAN)
Gallatin Valley Interfaith Assn
Valerie Webster, facilitator
(Carson)
Bozeman Sunrise Rotary Carson
Bozeman Noon Rotary Carson
Bozeman Tenants Union - Jan
bozemantenantsunited@gmail.com
Benjamin Finnigan, ED (we met to arrange for
program in October for their membership)
Montana Landlord Assn – Deanna?
Montana State University- Bozeman:
ASMSU:
asmsupres@montana.edu
asmsu@montana.edu
Political Science Department:
eric.austin@montana.edu
politicalscience@montana.edu
(Carson)
- MSU Faculty and Staff
Faculty & Staff | Montana State University
- Women's Center, Betsy Danforth (JAN)
danforth@montana.edu
Heart Initiative
Student Commons
- Native American Studies Dept. (JAN)
- MSU American Indian Council
- Marsha Small and Indigenous Peoples Day
(Carson)
- Program in Women's, Gender and Sexuality
Studies
- BSU
- ASIA
- QSA
-
- Sustainability Program
Arts and Cultural Non-Profits
Bozeman Film Society – Lisa McGrory (JAN)
Bozeman Doc Film series, Jason (JAN)
Tinworks
Emerson Art and Cultural Center
Opera Montana
Bozeman Symphony
65
Outreach Distribution List for City of Bozeman Study Commission
Engagement Events –
• July 27th - Barb + Becky 's presentation
to Neighborhood Association
• August 7 and 8th Sweet Pea/SLAM - SLAM = Jan
• August 15th Film Society "A River Runs Through It" with Opera MT at Story
Mansion - = JAN
• August mid-late - MSU Lollapalooza and 1st-year Students Convocation
• September 9 & 10th - Pecha Kucha - Becky + Jan - TBD
• September 11 @ Noon - MSU OLLI Zoom event
• September 29 - League of Women Voters of Bozeman area host our Info Session - Becky & Jan
• 2nd Monday in October - Indigenous People's Day events
• INC Meeting - October 15
• October 31 - Family Halloween Parade on Main Street
• November 3rd - Election Day
Other engagements to be added 3. July 26 EOD - Danegeld Draft Detailed Plan to Carson and Jan for Agenda for July 30 and in SC packet for Monday, July 27 4. City Attorney Greg Sulllivan will present a training on how to differentiate between education and advocacy to the SC at our meeting on August 6th.
66