Good morning, Kalispell.

Twenty dogs rescued from unsanitary conditions at a Coram property in March are now cleared for adoption after vet checks—Flathead County Animal Shelter said interested adopters can set appointments while Candy Evans pleaded not guilty to felony animal cruelty with a trial set for October 14.

Voters today will decide on raising taxes to support school levies for districts in Kalispell, Whitefish & Columbia Falls, including a $2.9 million high school levy at Kalispell Public Schools that aims to close a nearly $3 million budget gap.

The mail-in election also includes trustee races for Cayuse Prairie, Deer Park and Smith Valley, with failure to pass the levy risking cuts in teaching jobs and programs.

Flathead National Forest issued an emergency closure order for the Blankenship Bridge area due to high water from seasonal runoff that raised the Flathead River and submerged the access road; the area is closed to camping and motorized vehicles and the order remains in effect until June 27 at 6 p.m. for public safety.

Flathead National Forest officials have ordered an emergency closure near Blankenship Bridge due to high water levels on the Flathead River that submerged the access road—barring camping and motorized vehicle use until water levels drop.

Gov. Gianforte signed House Bill 292 on May 5, giving Montanans a quicker way to stop lawsuits that try to limit speech (lawsuits known as SLAPPs) while courts pause legal steps (like review of evidence).

The law, inspired by Idaho’s similar measure, will help protect free expression by reducing long legal battles.

Kalispell City Hall released its preliminary $182.2 million fiscal 2026 budget today; the plan is $1.5 million higher than last year’s and funds public safety projects, capital improvements like replacing PFAS-contaminated drinking water wells & upgrades in department equipment.

City Council will review the general fund, Development Services, Public Works, Police, Fire/Emergency Medical Services, and other department budgets in work sessions at City Hall Tuesday and Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Today, state lawmakers approved $124M in state funds and up to $40M in federal funds to improve Montana’s behavioral health system—plans include building a new mental health facility in eastern Montana, adding beds at state hospitals, and expanding crisis services to cut waitlists caused by past budget cuts.

Mother's Day Flower Frame Craft Event

8 p.m. — Meadows Edge — Cost to be determined — Create a heartfelt flower frame as a special gift for Mom.

Champions of Magic Show

7:30-9 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — Ticketed event — Experience an all-new thrilling magic show from the world-renowned Champions of Magic team.

Shrine Circus

2-4 p.m. — Majestic Valley Arena — Affordable entry — Experience a delightful family-friendly circus with exciting performances under the big top.

The Rancher's Daughter Farmer's Market

5-8 p.m. — The Rancher's Daughter Kalispell — Free entry — Explore a vibrant summer market showcasing local vendors and fresh produce.

Kalispell Professional Bull Riding

7:30-10 p.m. — Majestic Valley Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrilling action of professional bull riding in Kalispell.

Kalispell PBR Championship

7:30-10 p.m. — Majestic Valley Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrill of bull riding with the world's toughest riders and elite bucking bulls.