Helena starts zoning update with public input at Helena College

HELENA, Mont. — Helena has started updating its zoning regulations for the first time since 2008 and city leaders began the process with a community open house at Helena College.

The event gave residents and businesses a chance to talk about problems with the current rules and share ideas for changes.

Senior planner Ellie Ray said community feedback will shape what comes next.

“It’s really critical that we get members of the community engaged in this process because they’re the ones that are really going to have the biggest say in what we want to see on the ground in the future,” said Ray.

Ray explained a change in state law pushed the city to move forward with a full update after nearly two decades. She also said Helena had adopted its Helena Forward Use Plan and made amendments to its zoning and subdivision regulations.

City officials said zoning regulations are tools allowed by state law to help local governments manage land use and development while protecting public health, safety and welfare.

At the open house, residents appeared focused on housing options, development strategies, policy choices and parking lot options. Ray said the city plans to hold more open houses and meetings for public input on a quarterly basis.

The city’s goal is to have the new regulations adopted by the City Commission by August next year.