Good morning, Kalispell.

The Friends of Ferndale Fire Department will host its annual summer barbecue fundraiser with bison burgers, huckleberry ice cream and a silent auction—raising money to upgrade equipment and enhance firefighter training.

Activities include rides on a historic firetruck and a T-shirt design contest for kids to support further improvements.

Lakeside residents testified at the Flathead County Planning Board meeting on Wednesday against Discovery Land Company's proposed 1,700-acre resort that would add amenities such as a golf course, restaurants and 359 residential lots.

They raised concerns over increased traffic, strained water and sewer systems and stormwater runoff impacting Flathead Lake’s water quality as the board postponed the decision until its meeting on August 13th.

On July 9, crews fought an eight-hour hay fire south of Kalispell that burned over 350 tons of hay and caused $125,000 in damage while the Sheriff’s Office arrested a 12-year-old suspect and continues to seek a second suspect—firefighters and a civilian were treated for heat and smoke injuries.

On July 10, South Kalispell Fire Department said a juvenile was arrested for human-caused fires that burned haystacks on Foys Bend Lane, causing over $125,000 in damage, burning 350 tons of hay, and injuring three people while firefighters used 630,000 gallons of water and mutual aid helped control traffic (Somers, Smith Valley, Evergreen, Creston, West Valley, Bigfork, and DNRC).

A juvenile was taken into custody after a hay bale fire burned several hours south of Kalispell on July 9—injuring two firefighters as investigators examine the incident for arson.

NorthWestern Energy filed a new rate proposal with regulators to replace its self-implemented rate hike from late May with a settlement that would lower the average monthly bill to $115 for a typical household using 750 kilowatts.

The Public Service Commission approved the change with a 3-2 vote on July 1 — further filings will be reviewed before final revenue decisions by year’s end.

On June 23, Montana’s School Funding Interim Commission voted 13-7 to exclude organizations representing teachers, administrators, school business officials, and board members from the policy working group that will guide its study of public school funding.

The commission, which includes experienced educators, will now rely on its own membership while stakeholders continue to submit public comment—highlighting ongoing debate over the decision.

Herron Half Marathon, 10K and 5K Trail Run

7-11 a.m. — Herron Park — Registration required — Experience scenic trails while supporting local trail building efforts in this annual community event.

Breakthrough Basketball Skills Camp

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. — Stillwater Christian School — Price info not provided — Enhance your basketball skills through high-intensity drills and fun competition.

Live Music with Zachary Christ

7-9 p.m. — Bias Brewing — No cover charge — Experience expressive vocals revitalizing 90's Alt Rock and modern Americana tunes.

Northern Rockies Chapter Banquet

5-10 p.m. — Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell — Community event — Celebrate conservation efforts and enjoy networking with local enthusiasts.

Huckleberry Days Festival

10 a.m. — Depot Park — Free admission — Celebrate Montana's native huckleberry with arts, crafts, and delicious gelato treats.