HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Workshop Packet 09.16.2025
AGENDA
CITY OF LAUREL
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
6:30 PM
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
Public Input: Citizens may address the Council regarding any item of City business that is not on tonight’s agenda. The
duration for an individual speaking under Public Input is limited to three minutes. While all comments are welcome, the
Council will not take action on any item not on the agenda. Because of the Rules that govern public meetings, Council is not
permitted to speak in response to any issue raised that is a non-Agenda item. The Mayor may provide factual information in
response, with the intention that the matter may be addressed at a later meeting. In addition, City Council may request that a
particular non-Agenda item be placed on an upcoming Agenda, for consideration. Citizens should not construe Council’s
“silence” on an issue as an opinion, one way or the other, regarding that non-Agenda matter. Council simply cannot debate
an item that is not on the Agenda, and therefore, they must simply listen to the feedback given during public input. If a
citizen would like to speak or comment regarding an item that is on tonight’s agenda, we ask that you wait until the agenda
item is presented to the Council by the Mayor and the public is asked to comment by the Mayor.
Be advised, if a discussion item has an upcoming public hearing, we would request members of the public to reserve your
comments until the public hearing. At the public hearing, the City Council will establish an official record that will include
all of your comments, testimony, and written evidence.
General Items
1. Appointment of Jarred Anglin as Police Chief.
Executive Review
2. Planning: Resolution - A Resolution Of The City Council Authorizing The Mayor To Sign A
Memorandum Of Understanding Between The City Of Laurel And Yellowstone County For
GIS Services.
3. Planning: Resolution - Resolution Of City Council (APPROVING or DENYING) Zone
Change For Iron Horse Station Subdivision From Residential R-6000 (Duplex) To Residential
RMF (Multi-Family).
4. Public Works: Resolution - A Resolution Of The City Council Authorizing The Mayor To
Execute An Independent Contractor Service Contract With Donahue Roofing & Siding LLC.
Council Issues
5. Public Works: Laurel Rod and Gun Club Building Discussion
6. Public Works: Nutting Park Sprinkler System Discussion
Other Items
Attendance at Upcoming Council Meeting
Announcements
The City makes reasonable accommodations for any known disability that may interfere with a person’s ability to participate
in this meeting. Persons needing accommodation must notify the City Clerk’s Office to make needed arrangements. To make
your request known, please call 406-628-7431, Ext. 5100, or write to City Clerk, PO Box 10, Laurel, MT 59044, or present
your request at City Hall, 115 West First Street, Laurel, Montana.
1
File Attachments for Item:
2. Planning: Resolution - A Resolution Of The City Council Authorizing The Mayor To Sign A
Memorandum Of Understanding Between The City Of Laurel And Yellowstone County For GIS
Services.
2
R25-____ Approve GIS Memorandum of Understanding
RESOLUTION NO. R25-_____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO
SIGN A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF
LAUREL AND YELLOWSTONE COUNTY FOR GIS SERVICES.
WHEREAS, the City of Laurel desires to create, maintain and utilize a comprehensive
computerized GIS map database of all land existing within the external boundaries of the of the
City of Laurel; and
WHEREAS, Yellowstone County is presently hosting the City of Laurel’s GIS
information on its GIS map database; and
WHEREAS, the City of Laurel desires to continue to update, improve and utilize its
GIS data on the Yellowstone County GIS map database; and
WHEREAS, Yellowstone County has set fees and terms as contained in the
Memorandum of Understanding, a copy attached hereto and incorporated herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel,
Montana, that the Mayor is authorized to sign the Agreement with Yellowstone County for the
year 2025.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the ______ day of
____________________, 2025 by Council Member _____________________.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel, Montana on the
______ day of _____________, 2025.
APPROVED by the Mayor on the ______ day of ____________________, 2025.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
3
R25-____ Approve GIS Memorandum of Understanding
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
4
Memorandum of Understanding for Sharing of GIS Data and Services
1
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING FOR SHARING OF
GIS DATA AND SERVICES
This Memorandum of Understanding for Sharing of GIS Data and Services (Agreement)
is entered into between YELLOWSTONE COUNTY (COUNTY) and the CITY OF LAUREL
(CITY) on this day of ________________, 2025.
WHEREAS, CITY and COUNTY desire to continue to develop, share and integrate
geographic information systems (GIS) data and services to improve the planning and management
processes of CITY and COUNTY departments and infrastructure, including dispatch operations
of the 911 Center.
THEREFORE, this Agreement sets forth the following terms pursuant to which CITY
and COUNTY shall agree:
1. Term. This Agreement shall begin on the date the Resolution approving the Agreement is
passed by the Laurel City Council and shall last for three calendar years. The parties may
mutually agree, in writing, to terminate this deal at any time. Further, either party may
terminate this Agreement unilaterally with written notice of at least 90 days.
2. Compensation. In exchange for the services stated in this Agreement to be performed by
COUNTY, CITY agrees to pay COUNTY $4,000 for the first year of the contract. The
amount of compensation paid by CITY to COUNTY shall increase 4% each year. The
payments shall be made annually, at the start of each year of the contract. If the contract is
terminated mid-year, CITY shall pay COUNTY the pro rata compensation for the partial
year.
3. Duties. For the above compensation, COUNTY shall provide CITY with access to digital
mapping and tabular data of the City of Laurel and the Laurel Planning Jurisdiction.
COUNTY will maintain established and updated GIS data for the aforementioned area.
CITY will provide updated information to be included in the GIS system on an as-needed
basis.
COUNTY will make every effort to produce information in a format that will allow CITY
to print maps on its equipment. If this is not feasible, standard charges for hard copy maps
printed by COUNTY will apply.
While it is believed that the data supplied by both parties is the most current and accurate
available, neither CITY nor COUNTY make any warranties or representations as to the
accuracy or the completeness of the information.
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Memorandum of Understanding for Sharing of GIS Data and Services
2
All information and data in any format developed by and for GIS pursuant to this
agreement, at the discretion of COUNTY and CITY, will remain proprietary information
belonging to CITY and COUNTY.
4. Authorized Representatives. The parties appoint the following authorized representative to
receive notices and to provide direct communication between the parties:
For CITY: For COUNTY:
PO Box 10 Yellowstone County GIS
Laurel, MT 59044 217 N. 27th Street
Attn: Mayor Billings, MT 59101
Attn: GIS Manager
5. No Creation of Entity, Hold Harmless. This Agreement shall not be construed to create,
either expressly or by implication, the relationship of agency or partnership between CITY
and COUNTY. Neither CITY nor COUNTY is authorized to act on behalf of the other in
any manner in relation to the subject matter of this Agreement, and neither shall be liable
for the acts, errors, or omissions of the other entered into, committed or performed with
respect to or in the performance of this Agreement. Each party agrees to indemnify and
hold the other party harmless against any claims arising from the acts errors or omissions
of its employees or agents.
6. Governing Law, Informal Dispute Resolution, Venue. This Agreement shall be governed
by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Montana. Should a dispute
arise regarding the terms of this Agreement, the parties shall first enter into good faith
discussions in an attempt to resolve the dispute. Should the dispute result in litigation, the
parties agree that proper venue lies in the Montana 13th Judicial District Court.
7. Entire Agreement and Revocation of Prior Agreements. This Agreement embodies the
entire understanding between CITY and COUNTY with respect to the specific subject
matter hereof, and no prior oral or written representation shall serve to modify or amend
this Agreement. This Agreement may not be modified except by action of both governing
bodies.
The parties hereby state and represent that the 2005 GIS Interlocal Agreement between
CITY and COUNTY is hereby rescinded and revoked upon execution of this Agreement.
8. Authorized Signatures. The parties represent and agree that the persons signing this
Agreement have authorization to bind their respective governmental entities to the terms
of the Agreement.
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Memorandum of Understanding for Sharing of GIS Data and Services
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Passed and Adopted on this day of _____
2025
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
YELLOWSTONE COUNTY, MONTANA
Mark Morse
Yellowstone County Board Chair
Mike Waters
Yellowstone County Commissioner
Chris White
Yellowstone County Commissioner
Attest:
Jeff Martin
Yellowstone County Clerk and Recorder
Passed and Adopted on this day of
September 2025
CITY OF LAUREL, MONTANA
City Mayor
Attest:
City of Laurel Clerk
7
File Attachments for Item:
3. Planning: Resolution - Resolution Of City Council (APPROVING or DENYING) Zone
Change For Iron Horse Station Subdivision From Residential R-6000 (Duplex) To Residential
RMF (Multi-Family).
8
R25-____(A) Approve Zone Change for Iron Horse Station Subdivision
RESOLUTION NO. R25-_____(A)
RESOLUTION OF CITY COUNCIL APPROVING ZONE CHANGE FOR IRON
HORSE STATION SUBDIVISION FROM RESIDENTIAL R-6000 (DUPLEX) TO
RESIDENTIAL RMF (MULTI-FAMILY).
WHEREAS, Marvin Brown – Iron Horse LLC (hereinafter “the Applicant”) has applied
to the City of Laurel for a Zone Change from R-6000 to RMF for the property generally known
as the Iron Horse Station Subdivision and located in Laurel, Montana, and more particularly
described as:
All of Block 6, Lots 1 and 2, Block 7 Iron Horse Station Subdivision located in
Section 9, Township 24 East, Range 2 South, P.M.M., City of Laurel,
Yellowstone County, Montana (in general, the properties front along Great
Northern Road);
WHEREAS, the application for a Zone Change was submitted on June 30, 2025, and a
public hearing was conducted on the 20th day of August, 2025 by the Laurel Zoning
Commission;
WHEREAS, the Laurel Zoning Commission has conducted a factual and legal analysis
of the Zone Change, which is contained within the Zoning Commission Recommendation ZC-
25-01, Marvin Brown – Iron Horse Station Subdivision Zone Change Request, a copy of which
is attached hereto and fully incorporated herein;
WHEREAS, the Laurel Zoning Commission found that the requested zoning is
INCONSISTENT with the Laurel-Yellowstone Growth Policy, that the rational nexus for the
adoption of zoning is not met, due to expressed concerns with traffic, lack of adequate
infrastructure to support the increased density, and that the citizens of Laurel have participated
in the creation of the proposed rezoning process;
WHEREAS, the Laurel Zoning Commission recommends that the City Council DENY
the Zoning Classification of RMF on all of Block 6, Lots 1 and 2, Block 7 Iron Horse Station
Subdivision located in Section 9, Township 24 East, Range 2 South, P.M.M., City of Laurel,
Yellowstone County, Montana (on a 4-3 vote);
WHEREAS, the City Council conducted a public hearing on the 9th day of September,
2025 at 6:30 p.m., in City Council Chambers, regarding the Zone Change;
WHEREAS, following public hearing, the City Council may either approve or deny the
Zone Change;
9
R25-____(A) Approve Zone Change for Iron Horse Station Subdivision
WHEREAS, the Laurel City Council has considered the record, the recommendation of
the Zoning Commission, and the public interest in preserving the intent and integrity of the
zoning code; and
WHEREAS, the Laurel City Council believes approval of the zone change is
appropriate, based upon the record, and finds that the rational nexus for the adoption of zoning
is met.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel,
Montana, as follows:
1. The Laurel City Council has hereby considered the Laurel Zoning Commission
findings that the requested zoning is INCONSISTENT with the Laurel-
Yellowstone Growth Policy, but finds that the rational nexus for the adoption of
zoning is met, and that the citizens of Laurel have participated in the creation of
the proposed rezoning process.
2. The requested zoning change from Residential R-6000 (Duplex) to Residential
RMF (Multi-Family) for property located in Block 6, Lots 1 and 2, Block 7, Iron
Horse Station Subdivision, is hereby GRANTED.
3. The City Clerk/Treasurer is directed to provide a copy of this Resolution to the
applicant and to maintain the Resolution in the official records of the City.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the _____ day of
____________________, 2025, by Council Member ________________.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel the _____ day of
____________________, 2025.
APPROVED by the Mayor the _____ day of ____________________, 2025.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
10
R25-____(A) Approve Zone Change for Iron Horse Station Subdivision
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
11
R25-____(B) Deny Zone Change for Iron Horse Station Subdivision
RESOLUTION NO. R25-_____(B)
RESOLUTION OF CITY COUNCIL DENYING ZONE CHANGE FOR IRON
HORSE STATION SUBDIVISION FROM RESIDENTIAL R-6000 (DUPLEX) TO
RESIDENTIAL RMF (MULTI-FAMILY).
WHEREAS, Marvin Brown – Iron Horse LLC (hereinafter “the Applicant”) has applied
to the City of Laurel for a Zone Change from R-6000 to RMF for the property generally known
as the Iron Horse Station Subdivision and located in Laurel, Montana, and more particularly
described as:
All of Block 6, Lots 1 and 2, Block 7 Iron Horse Station Subdivision located in
Section 9, Township 24 East, Range 2 South, P.M.M., City of Laurel,
Yellowstone County, Montana (in general, the properties front along Great
Northern Road);
WHEREAS, the application for a Zone Change was submitted on June 30, 2025, and a
public hearing was conducted on the 20th day of August, 2025 by the Laurel Zoning
Commission;
WHEREAS, the Laurel Zoning Commission has conducted a factual and legal analysis
of the Zone Change, which is contained within the Zoning Commission Recommendation ZC-
25-01, Marvin Brown – Iron Horse Station Subdivision Zone Change Request, a copy of which
is attached hereto and fully incorporated herein;
WHEREAS, the Laurel Zoning Commission found that the requested zoning is
INCONSISTENT with the Laurel-Yellowstone Growth Policy, that the rational nexus for the
adoption of zoning is not met, due to expressed concerns with traffic, lack of adequate
infrastructure to support the increased density, and that the citizens of Laurel have participated
in the creation of the proposed rezoning process;
WHEREAS, the Laurel Zoning Commission recommends that the City Council DENY
the Zoning Classification of RMF on all of Block 6, Lots 1 and 2, Block 7 Iron Horse Station
Subdivision located in Section 9, Township 24 East, Range 2 South, P.M.M., City of Laurel,
Yellowstone County, Montana (on a 4-3 vote);
WHEREAS, the City Council conducted a public hearing on the 9th day of September,
2025 at 6:30 p.m., in City Council Chambers, regarding the Zone Change;
WHEREAS, following public hearing, the City Council may either approve or deny the
Zone Change;
12
R25-____(B) Deny Zone Change for Iron Horse Station Subdivision
WHEREAS, the Laurel City Council has considered the record, the recommendation of
the Zoning Commission, and the public interest in preserving the intent and integrity of the
zoning code; and
WHEREAS, the Laurel City Council believes denial of the zone change is appropriate,
finding that the requested zoning is INCONSISTENT with the Laurel-Yellowstone Growth
Policy, that the rational nexus for the adoption of zoning is not met, due to expressed concerns
with traffic, lack of adequate infrastructure to support the increased density, and that the citizens
of Laurel have participated in the creation of the proposed rezoning process.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel,
Montana, as follows:
1. The Laurel City Council has hereby considered the Laurel Zoning Commission
findings that the requested zoning is INCONSISTENT with the Laurel-
Yellowstone Growth Policy, and finds that the rational nexus for the adoption
of zoning is not met, due to expressed concerns with traffic, lack of adequate
infrastructure to support the increased density, and that the citizens of Laurel
have participated in the creation of the proposed rezoning process.
2. The requested zoning change from Residential R-6000 (Duplex) to Residential
RMF (Multi-Family) for property located in Block 6, Lots 1 and 2, Block 7, Iron
Horse Station Subdivision, is hereby DENIED.
3. The City Clerk/Treasurer is directed to provide a copy of this Resolution to the
applicant and to maintain the Resolution in the official records of the City.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the _____ day of
____________________, 2025, by Council Member ________________.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel the _____ day of
____________________, 2025.
APPROVED by the Mayor the _____ day of ____________________, 2025.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
13
R25-____(B) Deny Zone Change for Iron Horse Station Subdivision
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
14
1
CITY HALL
115 W. 1ST ST.
PLANNING: 628-4796
WATER OFC.: 628-7431
COURT: 628-1964
FAX 628-2241
City Of Laurel
P.O. Box 10
Laurel, Montana 59044
Office of the City Planner
ZONING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION ZC-25-01
Marvin Brown - Iron Horse Station Subdivision Zone Change Request
August 27, 2025
R-6000 to RMF
BACKGROUND:
The City of Laurel is an incorporated City within the State of Montana with powers established
under the Constitution of Montana XI.4. The power and processes for the Cit y to establish zoning
regulations are found in §76-2-301 et. seq. M.C.A.
Mr. Brown was the original developer for the Iron Horse Station Subdivision. The original intent
was to create a mixture of lots and lot sizes that would accommodate a wide array of housing
opportunities with the primary focus being on one- and two-family dwellings. Over time, the
perceived demand for new lots within the City of Laurel have changed in the opinion of the owner
but it is important to remember that just because the property is zoned multi-family that a purchaser
of any given lot may construct a single family residence. Our charge is to consider the rational
nexus for the adoption of zoning in the City of Laurel.
The application materials address several other points that outline the anticipated benefits of the
project. The application materials are incorporated into this report by reference.
LEGAL DESCRIPTION:
All of Block 6, Lots 1 and 2, Block 7 Iron Horse Station Subdivision located in Section 9,
Township 24 East, Range 2 South, P.M.M., City of Laurel, Yellowstone County, Montana. In
general, the properties front along Great Northern Road.
APPLICANT(S):
Marvin Brown – Iron Horse LLC
PO Box 80661
Billings MT 59108
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EXISTING CONDITION:
The subject property is a platted residential subdivision. The property is served by public water,
sewer, streets, solid waste, is surrounded by RMF and CC Zoning Designations, and is greater than
2.07 acres in size.
PROCESS:
The application for a Zoning Map Amendment (Zone Change) was submitted on June 30,
2025, and is scheduled for a public hearing on August 20, 2025 by the Laurel Zoning
Commission.
The Zoning Commission following the Public Hearing may not make changes to or
conditional modifications to the zoning and map. The change may only be recommended
for approval or denial. In either case, the decision must be supported by findings of fact
and conclusions related to the rational nexus for the adoption of zoning or zoning
amendments.
Those findings of fact and conclusions as well as the record minutes of the public hearing
will be submitted to the City Council for consideration, hearing and final decision.
The City Council will conduct a duly noticed Public Hearing on the Zoning Commission
recommendation and an Ordinance of the City Council on First Reading.
o Should the Zoning Commission recommendation be denial and it is upheld by the
City Council on First Reading, the request is deemed denied.
o Should the Zoning Commission recommendation for approval pass on First
Reading, another public hearing and Second Reading and adoption will be
scheduled.
If passed on Second Reading, the new zoning map assignment would become effective 30 -
days post Second Reading.
ZONES INVOLVED: Existing and Proposed
R-6000 - Residential 6000 District.
o The residential-6000 zone is intended to promote an area for a high, urban-density,
duplex residential environment on lots that are usually served by a public water and
sewer system.
RMF – Residential Multifamily District.
o The residential multifamily zone is intended to provide a suitable residential
environment for medium to high density residential dwellings; and to establish,
where possible, a buffer between residential and commercial zones.
CC – Community Commercial District.
o The community commercial classification is primarily to accommodate community
retail, service, and office facilities offering a greater variety than would normally
be found in a neighborhood or convenience retail development. Facilities within
the classification will generally serve an area within a one-and-one-half-mile radius
and are commensurate with the purchasing power and needs of the present and
potential population within the trade area. It is intended that these business facilities
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3
be provided in business corridors or islands rather than a strip development along
arterials.
RATIONAL BASIS OF ZONING:
In the State of Montana, all jurisdictions proposing to zone or rezone property or to adopt or revise
their zoning regulations must issue findings of fact on a twelve-point test that constitute the rational
nexus/legal basis for the adoption of a zoning district, zoning regulations, or changes to zoning or
zoning regulations. This rational nexus is called the “Lowe Test”.
I. Is the zoning in accordance with the growth policy;
Findings of Fact:
Both the RMF and R-6000 are generally applicable, City Established, zoning districts.
The requested zoning is based in the Growth Policy. A simple look at the Growth
Policy and future land use map will verify that the requested zone assignment is
consistent with the text and mapping components of the Growth Policy.
The Growth Policy, Future Land Use Map, designates the property as Residential. The
Residential designation supports zoning assignment from R-7500 to RMF.
The RMF designation is typically reserved for areas of proposed development,
redevelopment or in areas where adaptive reuse of existing structures that are
associated with significant land ownership is contemplated.
Both the R-6000 and RMF have provisions for the creation of a Planned Unit
Development (PUD). The proposed development could be proposed in the R-6000 via
the PUD process.
The requested zoning accomplishes several residential neighborhood goals and
strategies are implemented. Diversity of Neighborhoods, historic to modern;
accommodation of a diverse population both age and economic condition; Creation of
zones where expansion of non-motorized routes and access to the core of the
community. Residential districts protected from excessive noise and commercial
impacts and the conversion of structures to new uses is encouraged.
Conclusion: The requested zoning is in accordance with the Growth Policy and other adopted
rules and regulations of the City of Laurel.
II. Is the zoning designed to lessen congestion in the streets;
Findings of Fact:
The proposed zoning encourages compact walkable development as well as expanded
opportunities for new uses.
The property is located within reasonable walking distance of the Central Business District
and adjacent to Community Commercial. As such, the residents would be able to walk or
bicycle to essential services which would by default reduce the vehicular traffic on the
streets.
The proposed zoning encourages compact urban development as such the need for
vehicular travel is limited.
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4
The property is located where all the necessary public infrastructure exists.
The proposed zoning in conjunction with the development standards adopted with the
Subdivision Regulations will provide for flow through development, logical extension of
the gridded infrastructure network, and encourage pedestrian- friendly growth.
Conclusion: The requested zone should lessen congestion in the streets by ensuring orderly
growth and development of the property that is consistent with the proposed zoning
and other regulations adopted by the City of Laurel.
III. Is the zoning designed to secure safety from fire, panic, and other dangers;
Findings of Fact:
The proposed zoning will provide for consistency in development along with provision of
police and fire protection.
The proposed zoning incorporates enforcement of development standards, setbacks and
compliance with the other development standards adopted by the City of Laurel.
In addition to the zoning, the City of Laurel enforces the International Building Codes. The
combination of regulations are life safety driven.
The proposed zoning has restrictions on lot coverage, grading and development on steep
slopes and other areas that are potentially hazardous. The difference between R-6000 and
RMF is minimal.
Conclusion: The requested zoning along with other regulatory standards should provide safety
for residents and visitors to the city from fire, panic and other dangers.
IV. Is the zoning designed to promote health and the general welfare;
Findings of Fact:
The proposed zoning imposes setbacks, height limits and building restrictions.
The proposed zoning groups together like and consistent uses within existing
neighborhoods.
The overall development standards of the RMF do not convey a significant benefit to the
subject property that is not available in the R-6000.
In addition to the zoning, the City of Laurel enforces the International Building Codes. The
combination of regulations are life safety driven.
The RMF and R-6000 are compatible residential districts. In fact, the RMF and R-6000
are adjacent to one another in multiple examples within the City of Laurel.
The current zoning regulations restrict development in hazardous areas.
Conclusion: The grouping together of like and consistent uses promotes the health and general
welfare of all citizens of the City of Laurel. Further, the requested zoning is
substantially consistent with the land use in the surrounding neighborhoods.
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V. Is the zoning designed to provide adequate light and air;
Findings of Fact:
The proposed zoning imposes building setbacks, height limits, limits on the number of
buildings on a single parcel, and reasonable area limits on new development.
The only difference between the existing and proposed zoning is the building height limit
and lot coverage.
The issue of lot coverage was diminished, in part, by the passage of legislation in the 2023
session.
The proposed zoning implements the concept that the City of Laurel was developed
historically on a gridded network. Both the existing and proposed zoning requires the
perpetuation of this pattern. In doing so as the City plans for growth, the spacing and layout
of new development will facilitate provision of light and air to new development.
Conclusion: The proposed zoning ensures the provision of adequate light and air to residents of
the City through a continuation of the dimensional standards and other development
limitations.
VI. Is the zoning designed to prevent the overcrowding of land;
Findings of Fact:
The proposed zoning imposes minimum lot size, use regulations and other limitations on
development.
The amenities and parking associated with the proposed zoning can be contained within
the subject property.
The RMF is a generally applicable zoning district within the City of Laurel with a minimum
district size of 2.07 acres.
The area involved in the proposed rezoning is in excess of 2.07 acres.
Conclusion: The existing development standards of the requested zoning prevents overcrowding
of land.
VII. Is the zoning designed to avoid undue concentration of population;
Findings of Fact:
The requested zoning is one of the generally applicable Laurel residential districts that
represents a holistic approach to land use regulation for the entirety of the City of Laurel
and is not focused on any single special interest.
The overall maximum development densities are substantially similar between the R -600
and RMF.
The requested zoning is one of four residential zoning districts that provide a continuum
of residential densities and manage development to create land use compatibility.
The requested zoning imposes minimum lot sizes, maximum number of residences on a
single parcel and setback standards.
The RMF is a generally applicable zoning district within the Cit y of Laurel with a minimum
district size of 2.07 acres.
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The area involved in the proposed rezoning is in excess of 2.07 acres.
Conclusion: The proposed zoning prevent the undue concentration of population by encouraging
the most appropriate use and residential density at any given location within the
jurisdiction.
VIII. Is the zoning designed to facilitate the adequate provision of transportation, water,
sewerage, schools, parks and other public requirements;
Findings of Fact:
The requested zoning establishes minimum standards for the provision of infrastructure
such as roads, sidewalks, water sewer, wire utilities and storm water management.
The requested zoning encourages compact urban scale development and groups together
similar uses that will not detract from the quality of life expected in Laurel while providing
the economies of scale to extend water, sewer, streets, parks, quality schools and other
public requirements.
The property for the requested zoning is served by City streets, water and wastewater
systems.
The parent subdivision provided parkland as provided by the Laurel Subdivision
Regulations and the city has numerous developed parks and recreational opportunities.
Conclusion: The area affected by the requested zoning is served by insure the adequate
transportation, water, sewerage, school, parks, and other public requirements.
IX. Does the zoning give reasonable consideration to the character of the district and its
peculiar suitability for particular uses;
Findings of Fact:
The RMF is a generally applicable zoning district within the City of Laurel with a minimum
district size of 2.07 acres.
The area involved in the proposed rezoning is in excess of 2.07 acres. The property abuts
additional RMF zoning designations.
The uses and development patterns between R-6000 and RMF are subtle. It is for this
reason that the Growth Policy supports a wide range of residential zoning designations
within the City.
The requested zoning is one of the generally applicable Laurel residential districts that
represents a holistic approach to land use regulation for the entirety of the City of Laurel
and is not focused on any single special interest.
The overall development standards of the RMF do not convey a significant benefit to the
subject property that is not available in the R-6000.
The RMF and R-6000 are compatible residential districts. In fact, the RMF and R-6000
are adjacent to one another in multiple examples within the City of Laurel.
Conclusion: The requested zoning gives due consideration to the character of the existing
neighborhoods within the city as well as suitability for the particular uses.
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X. Does the zoning give reasonable consideration to the peculiar suitability of the property for
its particular uses;
Findings of Fact:
The RMF is a generally applicable zoning district within the City of Laurel.
The requested zoning is one of the generally applicable Laurel residential districts that
represents a holistic approach to land use regulation for the entirety of the City of Laurel
and is not focused on any single special interest.
The overall maximum development densities are substantially similar between the R -600
and RMF.
The overall development standards of the RMF do not convey a significant benefit to the
subject property that is not available in the R-6000.
The RMF and R-6000 are compatible residential districts. In fact, the RMF and R-6000
are adjacent to one another in multiple examples within the City of Laurel.
Both the R-6000 and RMF have provisions for the creation of a Planned Unit Development
(PUD). The proposed development could be proposed in the R-6000 via the PUD process.
The requested zoning accomplishes several residential neighborhood goals and strategies
are implemented. Diversity of Neighborhoods, historic to modern; accommodation of a
diverse population both age and economic condition; Creation of zones where expansion
of non-motorized routes and access to the core of the community. Residential districts
protected from excessive noise and commercial impacts and the conversion of structures
to new uses is encouraged.
Conclusion: The requested zone gives reasonable consideration to the peculiar suitability of the
property for its particular uses.
XI. Will the zoning conserve the value of buildings;
Findings of Fact:
The requested zone groups together like and consistent uses and is consistent with the
existing zoning in the various neighborhoods of the City of Laurel.
The RMF and R-6000 are compatible residential districts. In fact, the RMF and R-6000
are adjacent to one another in multiple examples within the City of Laurel.
Both the R-6000 and RMF have provisions for the creation of a Planned Unit Development
(PUD). The proposed development could be proposed in the R-6000 via the PUD process.
The requested zoning accomplishes several residential neighborhood goals and strategies
are implemented. Diversity of Neighborhoods, historic to modern; accommodation of a
diverse population both age and economic condition; Creation of zones where expansion
of non-motorized routes and access to the core of the community. Residential districts
protected from excessive noise and commercial impacts and the conversion of structures
to new uses is encouraged.
The proposed zoning reinforces that residential buildings will continue to be used for equal
or greater potential residential purposes.
Conclusion: The requested zoning will conserve or in many cases enhance the value of
buildings.
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XII. Will the zoning encourage the most appropriate use of land throughout the municipality?
Findings of Fact:
The proposed zoning and zoning map provide for transitional areas between uses that may
be incompatible.
The requested zoning expands an existing mixed-use residential district that is specifically
intended to ease the transition between residential and commercial uses.
The requested zoning is consistent with the type of development that exists and is occurring
in the surrounding neighborhood.
Providing a healthy mix of residential properties is in the best interest of the city, property
owners and potential buyers.
The requested zoning accomplishes several residential neighborhood goals and strategies
are implemented. Diversity of Neighborhoods, historic to modern; accommodation of a
diverse population both age and economic condition; Creation of zones where expansion
of non-motorized routes and access to the core of the community. Residential districts
protected from excessive noise and commercial impacts and the conversion of structures
to new uses is encouraged.
RMF is and has been assigned adjacent to both the R-7500 and R-6000 zoning assignments.
With all but one of the current assignments being adjacent to R-6000.
Conclusion: The requested zoning should encourage the most appropriate use of land not only
in the neighborhood but throughout the City of Laurel.
OTHER NOTABLE FACTORS:
The mandates associated with SB 382 and other legislation passed during the 2023
Legislative Session requiring communities with greater than 5,000 population to
increase opportunities and options for housing within the community.
RECOMMENDATION:
The Zoning Commission finds that the requested zoning is INCONSISTENT with the Laurel-
Yellowstone Growth Policy; that the rational nexus for the adoption of zoning is not met, due to
expressed concerns with traffic, lack of adequate infrastructure to support the increased density,
and that the citizens of Laurel have participated in the creation of the proposed rezoning process.
Further, that the Zoning Commission recommend that the City Council DENY the Zoning
Classification of RMF on all of Block 6, Lots 1 and 2, Block 7 Iron Horse Station Subdivision
located in Section 9, Township 24 East, Range 2 South, P.M.M., City of Laurel, Yellowstone
County, Montana (on a 4-3 vote).
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File Attachments for Item:
4. Public Works: Resolution - A Resolution Of The City Council Authorizing The Mayor To
Execute An Independent Contractor Service Contract With Donahue Roofing & Siding LLC.
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R25-__ Approve Independent Contractor Service Contract by and between the City of Laurel and Donahue
Roofing & Siding LLC
RESOLUTION NO. R25-__
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO
EXECUTE AN INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR SERVICE CONTRACT WITH
DONAHUE ROOFING & SIDING LLC.
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel, Montana,
Section 1: Approval. The Independent Contractor Service Contract by and between
the City of Laurel (hereinafter “the City”) and Donahue Roofing & Siding LLC, attached hereto
and incorporated herein, is hereby approved.
Section 2: Execution. The Mayor is hereby given authority to execute the Independent
Contractor Service Contract with Donahue Roofing & Siding LLC on behalf of the City.
Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 23rd day of September 2025
by Council Member _____.
PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel on the 23rd day of
September 2025.
APPROVED by the Mayor on the 23rd day of September 2025.
CITY OF LAUREL
___________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney
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Page 1 of 5
INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR SERVICE CONTRACT
This Contract is made and entered into this 23rd day of September, 2025, between the City of
Laurel, a municipal corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of Montana whose
address is P.O. Box 10, Laurel, Montana 59044, hereinafter referred to as “City” and Donahue Roofing
& Siding LLC, a contractor licensed to conduct business in the State of Montana, whose address is 3970
Avenue D Suite D, Billings, MT 59102, hereinafter referred to as “Contractor”.
SECTION ONE
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES
A. Purpose. City shall hire Contractor as an independent contractor to perform for City the services
described in the Bid dated September 9, 2025, attached hereto as Exhibit “A” and by this reference
made part of this contract.
B. Effective Date. This contract is effective upon the date of its execution by both Parties. Contractor
shall complete the services within 60 days of commencing work. The parties may extend the term of
this contract in writing prior to its termination for good cause.
C. Scope of Work. Contractor shall perform his/her work and provide services in accordance with the
specifications and requirements of this contract, any applicable Montana Public Work Standard(s) and
Exhibit “A”.
SECTION TWO
CONTRACT PRICE
Payment. City shall pay Contractor fifty-five thousand two hundred sixty-seven dollars and thirty-seven
cents ($55,267.37) for the work described in Exhibit A. Any alteration or deviation form the described
work that involves extra costs must be executed only upon written request by the City to Contractor and
will become an extra charge over and above the contract amount. The parties must agree to extra
payments or charges in writing. Prior to final payment, Contractor shall provide City with an invoice
for all charges.
SECTION THREE
CITY’S RESPONSIBILITIES
Upon completion of the contract and acceptance of the work, City shall pay Contractor the contract
price, plus or minus any additions or deductions agreed upon between the parties in accordance with
Sections one and two, if any.
SECTION FOUR
CONTRACTOR’S WARRANTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Independent Contractor Status. The parties agree that Contractor is an independent contractor for
purposes of this contract and is not to be considered an employee of the City for any purpose hereunder.
Contractor is not subject to the terms and provisions of the City’s personnel policies or handbook and
shall not be considered a City employee for workers’ compensation or any other purpose. Contractor
is not authorized to represent the City or otherwise bind the City in any dealings, agreements or su b-
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contracts in any dealings between Contractor and any third parties. The City is interested solely in the
results of this contract. Contractor is solely responsible for all work and work product under this
contract, including techniques, sequences, procedures, and means. Contractor shall supervise and direct
the work to the best of his/her ability.
B. Wages and Employment. Contractor shall abide by all applicable State of Montana Rules,
Regulations and/or Statutes in regards to prevailing wages and employment requirements. Contractor
shall comply with the applicable requirements of the Workers’ Compensation Act. Contractor shall
maintain workers’ compensation coverage for all members and employees of his/her business, except
for those members who are exempted as independent contractors under the provisions of §39-71-401,
MCA. Contractor understands that all contractors or subcontractors working on publicly funded
projects are required to have withheld from earnings a license fee of one percent (1%) of the gross
contract price if the gross contract price is Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) or more. This license fee is
paid to the Montana Department of Revenue pursuant to Montana law.
C. Unless otherwise specified by the terms of this Agreement, all m aterials and equipment used by
Contractor on the Construction Project shall be new and where not otherwise specified, of the most
suitable grade for their intended uses.
D. All workmanship and materials shall be of a kind and nature acceptable to the City.
E. All equipment, materials, and labor provided to, on, or for the Contract must be free of defects and
nonconformities in design, materials, and workmanship for a minimum period beginning with the
commencement of the work and ending one (1) year from completion and final acceptance by the City.
Upon receipt of City’s written notice of a defective or nonconforming condition during the warranty
period, Contractor shall take all actions, including redesign and replacement, to correct the defective or
nonconforming condition within a time frame acceptable to the City and at no additional cost to the
City. Contractor shall also, at its sole cost, perform any tests required by City to verify that such
defective or nonconforming condition has been corrected. Contractor warrants the corrective action
taken against defective and nonconforming conditions for a period of an additional one (1) year from
the date of City’s acceptance of the corrective action.
F. Contractor and its sureties are liable for the satisfaction and full performance of all warranties.
G. Contractor has examined the facilities and/or has made field examinations. Contractor has
knowledge of the services or project sought under this Contract and he/she further understands the site
conditions to be encountered during the performance of this Contract. Contractor has knowledge of the
types and character of equipment necessary for the work, the types of materials needed and the sources
of such materials, and the condition of the local labor market.
H. Contractor is responsible for the safety of the work and shall maintain all lights, guards, signs,
temporary passages, or other protections necessary for that purpose at all times.
I. All work is performed at Contractor’s risk, and Contractor shall promptly repair or replace all damage
and loss at its sole cost and expense regardless of the reason or cause of the damage or loss; provided,
however, should the damage or loss be caused by an intentional or negligent act of the City, the risk of
such loss shall be placed on the City.
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J. Contractor is responsible for any loss or damage to materials, tools, work product or other articles
used or held for use in the completion or performance of the Contract.
K. Title to all work, work product, materials and equipment covered by any payment of Contractor’s
compensation by City, whether directly incorporated into the Contract or not, passes to City at the time
of payment, free and clear of all liens and encumbrances.
SECTION FIVE
INDEMNITY AND INSURANCE
Contractor shall indemnify, defend and save City, its officers, agents and employees harmless from any
and all losses, damage and liability occasioned by, growing out of, or in any way arising or resulting
from any intentional or negligent act on the part of Contractor or its agents or employees.
SECTION SIX
COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS
Contractor shall comply with all federal, state, local laws, ordinances, rules and regulations. Contractor
shall either possess a City business license or shall purchase one, if a City Code requires a business
license.
SECTION SEVEN
NONDISCRIMINATION
Contractor agrees that any hiring of persons as a result of this contract must be on the basis of merit and
qualification and further that Contractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed,
political ideas, sex, age, marital status, physical or mental disability or national origin.
SECTION EIGHT
DEFAULT
If either party fails to comply with any term or condition of this Contract at the time or in the manner
provided for, the other party may, at its option, terminate this Contract and be released from all
obligations if the default is not cured within ten (10) days after written notice is provided to the
defaulting party. Said notice shall set forth the items to be cured. Additionally, the non-defaulting party
may bring suit for damages, specific performance, and any other remedy provided by law except for
punitive damages. The Parties hereby waive their respective claims for punitive damages. These
remedies are cumulative and not exclusive. Use of one remedy does not preclude use of the others.
Notices shall be provided in writing and hand-delivered or mailed to the parties at the addresses set
forth in the first paragraph of this Contract.
SECTION NINE
TERMINATION
Either party may terminate the contract for their convenience upon thirty days written notice sent
postage prepaid, to the addresses provided herein.
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SECTION TEN
GOVERNING LAW AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION
The Parties agree that the laws of the State of Montana govern this Contract. The Parties agree that
venue is proper within the Courts of Yellowstone County, Montana. If a dispute arises, the Parties,
through a representative(s) with full authority to settle a dispute, shall meet and attempt to negotiate a
resolution of the dispute in good faith no later than ten business days after the dispute arises. If
negotiations fail, the Parties may utilize a third-party mediator and equally share the costs of the
mediator or file suit.
SECTION ELEVEN
ATTORNEY FEES
If any action is filed in relation to this agreement, the unsuccessful party in the action shall pay to the
successful party, in addition to all sums that either is ordered to pay, a reasonable sum for the successful
party’s attorney’s fees and all costs charges and expenses related to the action.
SECTION TWELVE
ENTIRE AGREEMENT
This contract and its referenced attachment and Exhibit A contain the entire agreement and
understanding of the parties and supersede any and all prior negotiations or understandings relating to
this project. This contract shall not be modified, amended, or changed in any respect except through a
written document signed by each party’s authorized respective agents.
SECTION THIRTEENTH
ASSIGNMENT OF RIGHTS
The rights of each party under this Contract are personal to that party and may no t be assigned or
transferred to any other person, firm, corporation, or other entity without the prior, express, and written
consent of the other party.
SECTION FOURTEEN
SEVERABILITY
Each provision, section, or subsection of this Contract shall stand separate and independent of every
other. In the event that a court of competent jurisdiction shall find any provision, section, or subsection
of this contract to be invalid, the remaining provisions, sections, and subsections of this contract shall
remain in full force and effect.
SECTION FIFTEEN
PARAGRAPH HEADINGS
The titles to the paragraphs of this contract are solely for the convenience of the parties and shall not be
used to explain, simplify, or aid in the interpretation of the provisions of this agreement.
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SIGNED AND AGREED BY BOTH PARTIES ON THE 23rd DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2025.
CITY OF LAUREL CONTRACTOR
___________________________________ __________________________
Dave Waggoner, Mayor Donahue Roofing & Siding LLC
ATTEST: Employer Identification Number
___________________________________ __________________________
Kelly Strecker, Clerk/Treasurer
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