Commissioners and governor meet to discuss PL 280

It’s safe to say the future of Public Law 280 – the 60-year-old law enforcement agreement that’s given Lake County jurisdiction over most felonies committed by members of federally recognized tribes within its boundaries – is up in the air. However, Lake County Commissioners Gale Decker and Bill Barron and County Attorney James Lapotka met with Gov. Greg Gianforte Tuesday afternoon for to discuss the future of the agreement.

Shirley Eye, 85

Shirley Rae Newton Eye, age 85, passed away on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at the Pines of Mission in St. Ignatius. Her Celebration of Life will be held on July 11 at the Mission Valley United Methodist Church at 11 a.m. A light meal will be available after the service, and then her body will be laid to rest at Pleasant View Cemetery in St. Ignatius.

Sally Cook, 85

Sally Deane Bailey Cook of Ronan, born July 18, 1938, passed away May 19, 2024, at the age of 85, in Missoula of natural causes. There will be a celebration of her life July 6, 2024, at Valley View Clubhouse, 40765 Valley View Road, Polson, from noon-4 p.m. The reading of her complete obituary will be at 1 p.m.

Audrey Ann Burton, 85

Audrey Ann Burton, 85, of Polson, passed away on Monday, July 2, 2024, at Providence Hospital of heart failure.

Russell Breton, 85

Russell Breton, age 85, passed away June 7, 2024, at St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson.

Legals for January, 2 2025

Legals for March, 27 2025

Energy Keepers plans to keep lake at higher spring level

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) approved a request from Energy Keepers, Inc (EKI) to deviate from the Flood Risk Management plan by allowing for a higher spring lake level than usual.

View from the Library: Summer programs in full swing

We have successfully kicked off our annual Summer Reading Program with over 100 attendees at our first program and 289 registrations on the first day. It’s not too late to register – you actually have until Aug. 10.

Mercer to apply for appointment to District Court bench

The abrupt resignation of judge-elect Britt Cotter last week reopened a seat in the 20th District Court that had already been plagued with turmoil.

Governor appoints local judicial advisory council

Gov. Greg Gianforte has appointed a 10-member advisory council to assist in reviewing candidates to fill the vacancy in Department 2 of the 20th Judicial District, which serves Lake and Sanders Counties.

Legals for January, 23 2025

The Big Bang: Fireworks allowed, but only through July 5

Next Wednesday is the Fourth of July, a time when most Americans celebrate the Declaration of Independence, which was signed July 4, 1776. People enjoy picnics, parades, family get-togethers, the Arlee Powwow and fireworks.

Local wrestlers find podium at qualifier

Arlee High School hosted the Western Montana Little Guy Wrestling (WMLG) Unit 2 Qualifier on March 15, showcasing impressive talent from young wrestlers across the region.

Elsie Brown, 95

Elsie Mae (Funk) Brown, age 95, passed away at her home in Polson on Feb. 6, 2024. There will be a potluck Celebration of Life at the home of Bob Daily at 35448 Rocky Point Road, Polson, on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, starting at noon. Interment will be at Glacier Memorial Gardens on June 26, at 11 a.m.

Legals for January, 30 2025

That ain't what the Bible says

Lonnie Haack’s recent letters (Feb. 22 and April 11, Leader) contain opinion and conclusions that are questionable. What is the difference between facts and opinions?

Property taxes aren't political

Property taxes aren’t red/blue or political. The State writes the rules on property taxes, counties follow the rules. And everyone – no matter what your political stripe – pays.

Who will pay for Sen. Hertz’s reform of TIF districts?

Tax increment financing (TIF) is a policy driver that incentivizes private developers to develop in areas they would not otherwise develop, e.g., 100-year-old vacant blighted structures full of contaminants on rural Main Streets.

Harold Patrick Hughes, 85

Harold Patrick Hughes passed away peacefully Feb. 21, 2025, in Polson, where he spent the final 45 years of his 85-year life. The Rosary will be recited on Sunday, March 2, at 6 p.m. at The Lake Funeral Home in Polson. The Funeral Mass will be on Monday, March 3, at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, burial will follow the mass at Lakeview Cemetery.