Recommendations

The engagement consultants on this project created a final survey at the end of the engagement project with top community priorities, concerns, specific and general infrastructure ideas and options for community engagement. This step provided an opportunity to validate findings. The survey was available for one week on the Missoula County Voice page and was also available via iPads or paper/pencil during a two-day event where residents could drop by, talk with leadership team members and enjoy a popsicle.

The consultants shared the results of the final survey as well as an initial draft report of findings and recommendations with Missoula County staff and the leadership in June.

On July 18, 2023, the consultants made the following recommendations to the Missoula Board of County Commissioners, based on West Riverside community members’ vision for infrastructure and their preferred types of community engagement.

1. Create a community-driven plan to address infrastructure, growth and affordability.
   1. Conduct a water and wastewater system analysis.
   2. Analyze how infrastructure may impact residents’ top priorities/concerns and consider how to minimize any negative impacts.
   3. Prioritize infrastructure desires ranked highly by residents.
   4. Affirm that the County understands individual wells are a community priority.
2. Implement a clear, cohesive outreach strategy to build genuine partnership with the community.
   1. Strengthen and support Bonner Milltown Community Council’s ability to serve the West Riverside community.
   2. Provide ongoing education ‘workshops’ and opportunities for dialogue between community members and Missoula County staff.
   3. Streamline communication so residents can more easily find relevant information for their community.
   4. Continue cross-departmental coordination to ensure consistency when working with the community.
3. Use preferred methods of communication and community outreach.
   1. Use surveys to support community input and decision-making.
   2. Use mail and local signage to communicate community updates and key participation opportunities.
   3. Provide in-person dialogue opportunities with online follow-up.

The consultants also shared these recommendations at meetings with the Bonner Milltown Community Council and the Missoula Development Authority. View the full report.