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proponents hope stimulus could bring more projects
Flathead Valley Finds Renewed Energy in Solar Power
KILA – In a valley with notoriously gray skies, solar-powered electricity might not seem to be the most viable energy source. Yet for decades, rural people who live outside of the Flathead Electric Cooperative power grid have relied on a combination of solar panels backed up by batteries or generators.
Now, tucked away in Kila, the Flathead has its first grid-tied, solar-powered business: Calm Animal Care. With the recently approved $787 billion federal stimulus package promising substantial funds and tax incentives for renewable energy, more could be on the way.
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When the Whitefish Housing Authority convenes this week for its annual beginning-of-the-year meeting, a central talking point will be a new community land trust program that is designed to provide permanent affordable housing options.
Last year, Whitefish implemented the state’s third community land trust. Missoula and Bozeman have similar programs. As the popularity of these trusts increases nationwide and as application deadlines near for the federal Neighborhood Stabilization Plan, more municipalities such as Kalispell and Eureka are looking to join the list.
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Officials warn though, that perception is greater than reality
More Horses Neglected, Abandoned in Recession
The neglect and abandonment of horses across Northwest Montana and the state is increasing as hay prices climb and a recession settles in, making it harder for owners of the animals to afford the cost of their care, according to local and state officials. But these officials also caution that the perception of high horse abandonment and neglect is significantly greater than the real scope of the problem.
“We are seeing an increase in the number of abandoned horses,” Steve Merritt, spokesman for the Montana Department of Livestock, said. “I expect that it will continue and get worse.”
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Breaking News
Plum Creek Will Lay Off 145, Shut Down One Plant in Montana
Plum Creek Timber Company announced another round of layoffs Thursday, eliminating a total of 145 jobs and leaving an additional 221 employees temporarily out of work in Kalispell, Columbia Falls, Fortine and Pablo.
In a prepared statement, Plum Creek attributed the cutback to a continuing decline in demand for wood products. The company plans to reduce production at its four lumber sawmill facilities and its medium density fiberboard plant.
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A slowing economy and the troubles plaguing the national housing market have potential buyers in the Flathead Valley tip-toeing around home and building investments at a time local professionals say they should be jumping in.
“In terms of times to rock and roll, this is as good as it gets,” Steve Paulson, a mortgage banker with Mann Mortgage said.
Interest rates are falling fast and furious. Building supplies like lumber and labor costs are at their lowest prices in years. Housing prices are dropping drastically throughout the valley. The result, area real estate, building and lending professionals say, is an unusually good market for those interested in buying or building a house.
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