Bozeman study commission proposes city charter changes for better public engagement, city commission restructuring

The Bozeman Local Government Study Commission is proposing significant changes to the city charter, including expanding the city commission from four to six members and shifting to a ward-based representation system. Other recommendations heading to voters this November include moving the mayor to a standard four-year term and forming an independent board to set compensation for elected officials. While this specific review is happening in Bozeman, local governments across Montana are required to elect study commissions every ten years to evaluate their effectiveness, making this a common period of transition for municipalities throughout the region, including Jackson.