Local governments provide the services and facilities that are the foundation of the Montana economy. Our cities and towns are among the best places in the country to live and work, raise a family and operate a business. The League of Cities and Towns is committed to preserving and promoting these qualities, and it will be guided during the 2011 Legislature by the following principles of fair, affordable and effective local government:
1. protection of current state transfer payments and the promotion of new sources of revenue to fund essential local services
2. diversification of the local government finance structure
3. maintenance of state grant, loan and investment programs to fund capital improvements and enhance the value of local tax dollars
4. strict adherence to federal and state laws and policies that prohibit unfunded mandates
5. protection of natural resources through laws that encourage the development of community water and sewer systems
6. effective planning and development policies that discourage sprawl and promote the more efficient delivery of local services
7. opposition to all measures that limit or diminish municipal authority in contradiction of the Local Government Article of the 1972 Constitution
8. responsible development of the state’s natural resources including renewable energy and alternative fuels
9. recognition of the contribution of cities and towns to the history and culture of our state and the vital role of local governments in the future direction and development of Montana.
