HELENA, Mt. — The Helena City Commission has unanimously voted to propose a public safety mill levy to voters, a move aimed at addressing the city’s growing law enforcement and emergency response needs.
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“The need is not going away,” said Helena Mayor Emily Dean.
The commission ultimately chose the "Tier 2" option, a plan that would cost just over $5.3 million to fund police and fire services.
“We're stretched very, very thin, and if we had multiple major incidents at once, right now we wouldn't be able to meet those demands,” Dean explained.
The proposal would add 21 fire personnel to help staff the city’s new Fire Station 3, while also adding nine positions within the police department. City staff say the additions would strengthen day-to-day response and improve reliability.
“Tier Two allows us to meet those demands, ensure that we can meet the needs of our growing community, and make really smart investments for our future,” Dean said.
However, the proposal would also increase property taxes for homeowners. If passed, city staff estimate the owner of a $500,000 home would pay about $212 more per year. The owner of a $700,000 home would pay about $297 more annually.
Despite the tax increase, Mayor Dean says the investment is worth it in the long run.
“We want to ensure that when someone calls 911, they get the support that they need and that we are there immediately," Dean said. "So this is for the future of Helena to ensure that we can continue to be a thriving, growing community.”
City leaders say public outreach and community education efforts will begin immediately ahead of next year’s vote. The mill levy is currently scheduled to appear on the ballot on March 9, 2027.
