Good morning; on the Beacon today, by increasing property taxes, but reducing storm water assessments, Whitefish city officials believe they have a found a way to increase the general fund’s cash reserve while offsetting some of the costs to property owners. Spurred by the high-profile death of a highway patrolman at the hands of an intoxicated driver, Montana’s Old West drinking and driving culture is retreating. The Montana High School Association has adopted stricter rules regarding the treatment of athletes suspected of suffering a concussion during competition. Rain and cooler temperatures continue to aid firefighters battling two wildfires in Montana.
A small airplane piloted by an aircraft mechanic from Utah crashed in a barley field west of Bozeman on Monday as clouds and heavy rain moved into the area, killing the pilot, officials said. Gov. Brian Schweitzer said Monday he is sending the state revenuers after online travel booking sites and out-of-state oil lease traders he suspects may be shirking their Montana taxes. Yellowstone Club creditors want a federal bankruptcy judge to reconsider a ruling that let the resort’s founder off the hook for about $230 million. Montana has joined the list of states affected by the ongoing shell egg recall over concerns of possible salmonella contamination. After a flurry of anticipation earlier in August, Congress recessed without bringing Sen. Jon Tester’s forest jobs bill before the Senate Natural Resources Committee. PPL Montana employees are working to contain damage to the Madison Dam near Ennis caused when a school bus-sized boulder dislodged and smashed into the western crest of the dam early Monday morning.