Good morning, Great Falls.

Great Falls Fire Rescue responded to a house fire at 317 10th Street South on April 3 — the fire began in the basement, was out by 9:18 a.m., and although no people were hurt, a pet dog died with officials now investigating the cause.

Great Falls Fire Rescue said the house fire at 317 10th Street South was reported at about 8:45 a.m., began in the basement, was extinguished by 9:18 a.m., and caused no injuries although a pet dog died.

Today the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office stopped posting mug shots online following legal guidance from county attorney Josh Racki — a decision made after reviewing conflicting Montana law.

The office said arrest records remain available and booking photos can still be requested through proper legal channels.

Montana lawmakers passed a bill that allows resort tax money to help fund workforce housing — a step to ease housing shortages in local resort communities.

The bill now awaits Gov. Gianforte's signature — a final step before the measure takes effect.

On April 2, the Montana House of Representatives approved a preliminary version of House Bill 2—a draft two year budget that spans 63 pages and totals $16.6 billion after nearly eight hours of debate.

The bill will be revised by the appropriations committee and sent to the Senate for further review.

City Commissioners on April 1 directed staff to prepare a proposal for $2.5 million in non-voted general obligation debt to build a new training center for Great Falls Fire Rescue because its current facility is largely unusable—some commissioners supported quick steps while Commissioner McKenney called for more time to gather community input.

City staff presented a sanitation program review on April 3 and proposed an 8% residential and 10% commercial rate increase for two years to counter a steep landfill fee jump from Republic Services—new rates will take effect on June 1 and include revised options for seniors and qualifying low-to-moderate income residents. City officials have already issued a protest and may consider legal action if Republic does not respond promptly.

The Cascade County Sheriff’s Office stopped posting booking photos on its online jail roster—Sheriff Jesse Slaughter said many complaints led to a legal review with Attorney Josh Racki following a 9th Circuit ruling and conflicting state laws.

Other arrest records will still be available as required by law.

Spring Loaded Music Festival

5 PM – 2 AM — The Do Bar — Check the event for ticket prices — A jam-packed day of metal, hip-hop, rock, and EDM performances by a diverse lineup of artists.

Sturniolo Triplets Concert

8:30-10:00 PM — Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an engaging evening with the Sturniolo Triplets as they bring their unique performance to Great Falls.

Saint Joan Production

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Great Falls High School — Tickets required — Experience a powerful performance of Joan of Arc through the talented students of Great Falls High School.

2025 Spring Roundup

1-12 p.m. — Heritage Inn — Refunds up to 7 days before the event — Engage with AA and Al-Anon speakers, workshops, and panels for community fellowship.

Tomáš Kubínek Performance

3-5 p.m. — Belt Performing Arts Center — Ticketed event — Experience a delightful one-man show filled with absurd stories and spontaneous hilarity.

Direct Support Professional - Quality Life Concepts

Direct Support Professionals provides daily support for adults with developmental disabilities living in their own homes by providing quality support services that will assist them to maintain independence, provide opportunities for community integration, and create a nurturing, safe, and healthy environment. Full and part-time positions available with GREAT benefits. Call 406-452-9531 to inquire.