Public comment sought on chief water judge applicant

Russ McElyea has reapplied for the position of chief water judge for the Montana Water Court. Public comment is now open on Judge McElyea’s re-appointment. The application may be viewed through a link available at tinyurl.com/228425hz.

Comments will be accepted until 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 7.

The Montana Water Court, located in Bozeman, was created by the 1979 Montana Legislature. The court has exclusive jurisdiction over the adjudication of all water rights claims in Montana. The chief water judge is appointed by the chief justice of the Montana Supreme Court. This judgeship is not subject to general election.

Public comment can be submitted via e-mail or by paper submission. These comments, which become part of the applicant’s file, will be posted on the Judicial Branch web page and forwarded to Chief Justice Mike McGrath. Public comment may be submitted to: Water Court Judge Public Comment, c/o Beth McLaughlin, Office of Court Administrator, P.O. Box 203005, Helena, MT 59620-3005.