Missoula County, Montana, covers approximately 2,600 square miles in the western part of the state. Five large valleys and three major rivers wind through this mountainous region. Missoula County has a population of approximately 117,922 people (2020 U.S. Census) and the county seat is Missoula. Missoula County is the third most populated county in Montana, representing Bonner, Clinton, Condon, East Missoula, Evaro, Frenchtown, Greenough, Huson, Lolo, Missoula, Milltown, Orchard Homes, Piltzville, Swan Valley, Seeley Lake and Turah.

Though Missoula County and the City of Missoula share a name and partner on some initiatives, Missoula County has no legislative or administrative power over the City of Missoula, or vice versa.

The County is a general powers government, meaning the commissioners can only enact specific ordinances or laws when the state has explicitly granted them the power to do so.

Missoula is the only incorporated city or town in Missoula County. This means the City has its own governing structure separate from the County.

Governance and Representation

The county is governed by a Board of County Commissioners three elected officials serving staggered six-year terms who are up for election every two years. The commission has authority over all legislative, executive and administrative issues throughout the county not specifically reserved by law or ordinance to other elected officials. Other elected officials within Missoula County are the Auditor, Clerk & Recorder/Treasurer, Clerk of District Court, County Attorney, two Justices of the Peace, Sheriff and Superintendent of Schools.

For county residents living outside the Missoula city limits, Missoula County provides all local government services. Those living within the City of Missoula are served by both the City and County and are represented by both elected officials. While they share a name and often collaborate on projects, the City does not govern the County, and vice-versa.

For example, a City resident is represented by their local city councilperson, the mayor and the county commission. A Missoula County resident, such as someone living in Lolo or Bonner, is represented solely by the commissioners. County elected officials serve all city and county residents. 

Services

Counties provide many vital services, from issuing birth certificates and marriage licenses and operating 9-1-1 call center to managing elections. While balancing numerous administrative responsibilities, counties deliver essential services to ensure healthy, vibrant and safe communities.

Counties also play a major role in two distinct areas of justice and public safety: emergency response and preparedness and the criminal justice system. Counties keep communities safe by providing law enforcement and preventing crime. From patrolling the streets and operating and maintaining the Missoula County Detention Facility to serving as the arm of Justice Court and the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office, enforcement departments are on the front lines of public safety. Other key county officials, staff and departments who work in criminal justice are judges, court clerks, jail staff, 9-1-1 operators and crime victim advocates.

Counties invest heavily in local residents’ health and well-being. Missoula Public Health protects residents by offering a wide range of services like administering flu shots, providing health information and training, and preventing public health emergencies. The county is also highly invested in providing behavioral and mental health services for residents, including those involved in the justice system.

Public engagement and transparency

All votes by the commissioners must be made in meetings open to the public, with the exception of decisions regarding confidential personnel and legal issues. The county’s Chief Administrative Officer has a great deal of responsibility, ensuring day-to-day responsibilities are addressed and that decisions made by elected officials are well executed across the county’s 30 departments.

Local government works best when residents are involved and voice their opinions. The public is always encouraged to attend meetings, submit public comment, weigh in on proposed projects and and speak with their elected officials.