reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 1. General Provisions › 7-3-191. Publication of summary

7-3-191. Publication of summary.
Each study commission shall publish once each week for 2 successive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation throughout the area of the affected local government a summary of its findings and recommendations, together with the address of a convenient public place where the text of its proposal may be obtained. The summary shall include a comparison of the existing and proposed plans of government.
History: En. Sec. 23, Ch. 697, L. 1983.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 1. General Provisions › 7-3-192. Election on recommendation

7-3-192. Election on recommendation.
(1) An alternative form or plan of government recommended by a study commission must be submitted to the voters in the same manner as provided in 7-3-149.
(2) Ballot requirements and treatment of suboptions on an alternative form or plan of government recommended by a study commission must be the same as for recommendations by petition as provided in 7-3-150 and 7-3-151.
History: En. Sec. 24, Ch. 697, L. 1983; amd. Sec. 7, Ch. 250, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 12, Ch. 387, L. 1995; amd. Sec. 18, Ch. 521, L. 2007; amd. Sec. 48, Ch. 49, L. 2015.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 1. General Provisions › 7-3-193. Application of other sections

7-3-193. Application of other sections.
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) of this section, the provisions of 7-3-122 and 7-3-152 through 7-3-161 apply to the adoption of an alternative form or plan of government upon recommendation by a study commission.
(2) (a) The presiding officer of the study commission and not the presiding officer of the governing body shall certify documents under 7-3-153.
(b) The study commission and not the governing body shall prepare an advisory plan for orderly transition to a new form or plan of government under 7-3-157.
(c) A study commission plan may provide for existing elected officers under 7-3-158(4).
History: En. Sec. 25, Ch. 697, L. 1983; amd. Sec. 295, Ch. 61, L. 2007; amd. Sec. 19, Ch. 521, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-201. Commission-executive form

7-3-201. Commission-executive form.
The commission-executive form (which may be called the council-executive, the council-mayor, or the commission-mayor form) consists of an elected commission (which may be referred to as the council) and one elected executive (who may be referred to as the mayor) who is elected at large.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(1).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-202. Nature of government

7-3-202. Nature of government.
The plan of government submitted to the qualified electors shall determine the powers of the local government unit by authorizing:
(1) general government powers; or
(2) self-government powers.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(4).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-203. Duties of executive

7-3-203. Duties of executive.
The executive shall:
(1) enforce laws, ordinances, and resolutions;
(2) perform duties required by law, ordinance, or resolution;
(3) administer affairs of the local government;
(4) carry out policies established by the commission;
(5) recommend measures to the commission;
(6) report to the commission on the affairs and financial condition of the local government;
(7) execute bonds, notes, contracts, and written obligations of the commission, subject to the approval of the commission;
(8) report to the commission as the commission may require;
(9) attend commission meetings and may take part in discussions;
(10) execute the budget adopted by the commission; and
(11) appoint, with the consent of the commission, all members of boards, except the executive may appoint without the consent of the commission temporary advisory committees established by the executive.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(2); amd. Sec. 296, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-211. Structural suboptions

7-3-211. Structural suboptions.
The plan of government submitted to the qualified electors shall further define the structural characteristics of the form by including one item from each of the choices listed in 7-3-212 through 7-3-224.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(part).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-212. Administrative assistants

7-3-212. Administrative assistants.
The executive:
(1) shall appoint one or more administrative assistants to assist in the supervision and operation of the local government, and the administrative assistants are answerable solely to the executive; or
(2) may appoint one or more administrative assistants to assist in the supervision and operation of the local government, and the administrative assistants are answerable solely to the executive.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(3)(a); amd. Sec. 297, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-213. Supervision of personnel

7-3-213. Supervision of personnel.
The executive may:
(1) appoint and remove all employees of the local government;
(2) appoint and remove, with the consent of a majority of the commission, all employees of the local government;
(3) appoint, with the consent of a majority of the commission, all department heads and remove department heads and may appoint and remove all other department employees; or
(4) appoint and remove, with the consent of a majority of the commission, all department heads and appoint and remove all other employees of the local government.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(3)(b).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-214. Veto power

7-3-214. Veto power.
The executive may:
(1) veto ordinances and resolutions, subject to override by a majority plus one of the whole number of the commission;
(2) veto ordinances and resolutions, subject to override by a two-thirds vote of the commission; or
(3) sign all ordinances and resolutions with no veto power.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(3)(c).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-215. Preparation of budget

7-3-215. Preparation of budget.
The executive may:
(1) prepare the budget and present it to the commission for adoption; or
(2) prepare the budget in consultation with the commission and department heads.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(3)(d).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-216. Administrative supervision and control

7-3-216. Administrative supervision and control.
The executive may:
(1) exercise control and supervision of the administration of all departments and boards; or
(2) exercise control and supervision of all departments and boards to the degree authorized by ordinance of the commission.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(3)(e).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-217. Financial officer

7-3-217. Financial officer.
A financial officer (who may be called the treasurer):
(1) shall be elected;
(2) shall be appointed by the executive with the consent of the council;
(3) shall be selected as provided by ordinance; or
(4) may, at the discretion of the commission, be selected as provided by ordinance.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(3)(f).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-218. Selection of commission members

7-3-218. Selection of commission members.
The commission shall be:
(1) elected at large;
(2) elected by districts in which candidates must reside and which are apportioned by population;
(3) elected at large and nominated by a plan of nomination that may not preclude the possibility of the majority of the electors nominating candidates for the majority of the seats on the commission from persons residing in the district or districts where the majority of the electors reside; or
(4) elected by any combination of districts, in which candidates must reside and which are apportioned by population, and at large.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(3)(g).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-219. Type of election

7-3-219. Type of election.
Local government elections shall be conducted on a:
(1) partisan basis; or
(2) nonpartisan basis.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(3)(h); amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 79, L. 1983.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-220. Presiding officer of commission -- selection

7-3-220. Presiding officer of commission -- selection.
The commission must have a presiding officer who must be:
(1) elected by the members of the commission from their own number for a term established by ordinance; or
(2) selected as provided by ordinance.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(3)(i); amd. Sec. 298, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-221. Presiding officer of commission -- voting

7-3-221. Presiding officer of commission -- voting.
The presiding officer of the commission:
(1) may vote as other members of the commission;
(2) is the executive, who may vote as the commissioners;
(3) is the executive, who shall decide all tie votes of the commission but may not have another vote (the presiding officer of the commission shall preside if the executive is absent); or
(4) is the executive but may not vote.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(3)(j); amd. Sec. 299, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-222. Terms of commission members

7-3-222. Terms of commission members.
Commission members shall be elected for:
(1) concurrent terms of office; or
(2) overlapping terms of office.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(3)(k).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-223. Size of commission and community councils

7-3-223. Size of commission and community councils.
The size of the commission, which shall be a number not less than three, shall be established when the form is adopted by the voters, and:
(1) community councils of at least three members shall be elected within each district to advise the commissioner from that district. Local governments conducting elections at large shall district according to population for the purpose of electing community councils; or
(2) community councils to advise commissioners may be authorized by ordinance.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(3)(l).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 2. Commission-Executive Government › 7-3-224. Terms of elected officials

7-3-224. Terms of elected officials.
The term of office of elected officials may not exceed 4 years and shall be established when the form is adopted by the voters.
History: En. 47A-3-203 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-203(3)(m).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 3. Commission-Manager Government › 7-3-301. Commission-manager form

7-3-301. Commission-manager form.
The commission-manager form, which may be called the council-manager form, consists of an elected commission, which may be called the council, and a manager appointed by the commission, who is the chief administrative officer of the local government. The manager is responsible to the commission for the administration of all local government affairs placed in the manager's charge by law, ordinance, or resolution.
History: En. 47A-3-204 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-204(1); amd. Sec. 300, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 3. Commission-Manager Government › 7-3-302. Nature of government

7-3-302. Nature of government.
The plan of government submitted to the qualified electors shall determine the powers of the local government unit by authorizing:
(1) general government powers; or
(2) self-government powers.
History: En. 47A-3-204 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-204(7).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 3. Commission-Manager Government › 7-3-303. Appointment of manager

7-3-303. Appointment of manager.
The manager shall be appointed by the commission for an indefinite term on the basis of merit only and removed only by a majority vote of the whole number of the commission.
History: En. 47A-3-204 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-204(2).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 3. Commission-Manager Government › 7-3-304. Duties of manager

7-3-304. Duties of manager.
The manager shall:
(1) enforce laws, ordinances, and resolutions;
(2) perform the duties required by law, ordinance, or resolution;
(3) administer the affairs of the local government;
(4) direct, supervise, and administer all departments, agencies, and offices of the local government unit except as otherwise provided by law or ordinance;
(5) carry out policies established by the commission;
(6) prepare and publish the commission agenda pursuant to 2-3-103;
(7) recommend measures to the commission;
(8) report to the commission on the affairs and financial condition of the local government;
(9) execute bonds, notes, contracts, and written obligations of the commission, subject to the approval of the commission;
(10) report to the commission as the commission may require;
(11) attend commission meetings and may take part in the discussion but may not vote;
(12) prepare and present the budget to the commission for its approval and execute the budget adopted by the commission;
(13) appoint, suspend, and remove all employees of the local government except as otherwise provided by law or ordinance;
(14) appoint members of temporary advisory committees established by the manager.
History: En. 47A-3-204 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-204(part); amd. Sec. 301, Ch. 61, L. 2007; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 396, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 3. Commission-Manager Government › 7-3-305. Employees of commission-manager government

7-3-305. Employees of commission-manager government.
(1) Employees appointed by the manager and the manager's subordinates must be administratively responsible to the manager.
(2) Neither the commission nor any of its members may dictate the appointment or removal of any employee whom the manager or any of the manager's subordinates are empowered to appoint.
(3) Except for the purpose of inquiry or investigation under this title, the commission or its members shall deal with the local government employees who are subject to the direction and supervision of the manager solely through the manager, and neither the commission nor its members may give orders to the employee, either publicly or privately.
History: En. 47A-3-204 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-204(part); amd. Sec. 302, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 3. Commission-Manager Government › 7-3-311. Structural suboptions

7-3-311. Structural suboptions.
The plan of government submitted to the qualified electors shall further define the structural characteristics of the form by including one item from each of the choices listed in 7-3-312 through 7-3-318.
History: En. 47A-3-204 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-204(part).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 3. Commission-Manager Government › 7-3-312. Appointment to boards

7-3-312. Appointment to boards.
All members of boards, other than temporary advisory committees established by the manager, must be appointed by:
(1) the presiding officer with the consent of the commission;
(2) the manager with the consent of the commission; or
(3) the commission.
History: En. 47A-3-204 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-204(6)(a); amd. Sec. 303, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 3. Commission-Manager Government › 7-3-313. Selection of commission members

7-3-313. Selection of commission members.
The commission shall be:
(1) elected at large;
(2) elected by districts in which candidates must reside and which are apportioned by population;
(3) elected at large and nominated by a plan of nomination that may not preclude the possibility of the majority of the electors nominating candidates for the majority of the seats on the commission from persons residing in the district or districts where the majority of the electors reside; or
(4) elected by any combination of districts, in which candidates must reside and which are apportioned by population, and at large.
History: En. 47A-3-204 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-204(6)(b).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 3. Commission-Manager Government › 7-3-314. Type of election

7-3-314. Type of election.
Local government elections shall be conducted on a:
(1) partisan basis; or
(2) nonpartisan basis.
History: En. 47A-3-204 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-204(6)(c); amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 79, L. 1983.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 3. Commission-Manager Government › 7-3-315. Presiding officer of commission

7-3-315. Presiding officer of commission.
The presiding officer of the commission must be:
(1) elected by the members of the commission from their own number for a term established by ordinance;
(2) elected by the qualified electors for a term of office; or
(3) selected as provided by ordinance.
History: En. 47A-3-204 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-204(6)(d); amd. Sec. 304, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 3. Commission-Manager Government › 7-3-316. Terms of commission members

7-3-316. Terms of commission members.
Commission members shall be elected for:
(1) concurrent terms of office; or
(2) overlapping terms of office.
History: En. 47A-3-204 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-204(6)(e).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 3. Commission-Manager Government › 7-3-317. Size of commission and community councils

7-3-317. Size of commission and community councils.
The size of the commission, which shall be a number not less than three, shall be established when the form is adopted by the voters, and:
(1) community councils of at least three members shall be elected within each district to advise the commissioner from that district. Local governments conducting elections at large shall district according to population for the purpose of electing community councils; or
(2) community councils to advise commissioners may be authorized by ordinance.
History: En. 47A-3-204 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-204(6)(f).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 3. Commission-Manager Government › 7-3-318. Terms of elected officials

7-3-318. Terms of elected officials.
The term of office of elected officials may not exceed 4 years and shall be established when the form is adopted by the voters.
History: En. 47A-3-204 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-204(6)(g).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-401. Commission form

7-3-401. Commission form.
The commission form consists of an elected commission (which may also be called the council) and other elected officers as provided in this part. All legislative, executive, and administrative powers and duties of the local government not specifically reserved by law or ordinance to other elected officers shall reside in the commission. The commission shall appoint the heads of departments and other employees, except for those appointed by other elected officials. Cities and towns which adopt this form may distribute by ordinance the executive and administrative powers and duties into departments headed by individual commissioners.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(1).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-402. Nature of government

7-3-402. Nature of government.
Local governments that adopt this form shall have general government powers.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(4).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-403. Role of presiding officer of commission

7-3-403. Role of presiding officer of commission.
The presiding officer of the commission may be referred to as the mayor. All members of boards and committees must be appointed by the presiding officer with the consent of the commission. The presiding officer must be recognized as the head of the local government unit and may vote as other members of the commission.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(part); amd. Sec. 305, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-411. General structural suboptions

7-3-411. General structural suboptions.
The plan of government submitted to the qualified electors shall further define the structural characteristics of the form by including one item from each of the choices listed in 7-3-412 through 7-3-418.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(part).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-412. Selection of commission members

7-3-412. Selection of commission members.
The commission must be elected by one of the following methods:
(1) elected at large;
(2) elected by the qualified electors residing in the districts in which candidates reside and which are apportioned by population; or
(3) elected by the qualified electors voting at large for candidates who reside in each district, which are apportioned by population.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(2)(a); amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 610, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-413. Type of election

7-3-413. Type of election.
Local government elections shall be conducted on a:
(1) partisan basis; or
(2) nonpartisan basis.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(2)(b); amd. Sec. 5, Ch. 79, L. 1983.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-414. Presiding officer of commission

7-3-414. Presiding officer of commission.
The presiding officer of the commission must be:
(1) elected by the members of the commission from their own number for a term established by ordinance;
(2) selected as provided by ordinance; or
(3) elected directly by the voters for a term established by ordinance.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(part); amd. Sec. 306, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-415. Administrative assistants

7-3-415. Administrative assistants.
The commission:
(1) shall appoint one or more administrative assistants to assist them in the supervision and operation of the local government; or
(2) may appoint one or more administrative assistants to assist them in the supervision and operation of the local government.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(2)(d).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-416. Terms of commission members

7-3-416. Terms of commission members.
Commission members shall be elected for:
(1) concurrent terms of office; or
(2) overlapping terms of office.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(2)(e).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-417. Size of commission and community councils

7-3-417. Size of commission and community councils.
The size of the commission, which shall be a number not less than three, shall be established when the form is adopted by the voters, and:
(1) community councils of at least three members shall be elected within each district to advise the commissioner from that district. Local governments conducting elections at large shall district according to population for the purpose of electing community councils; or
(2) community councils to advise commissioners may be authorized by ordinance.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(2)(f).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-418. Terms of elected officials

7-3-418. Terms of elected officials.
The term of office of elected officials may not exceed 4 years, except the term of office for commissioners in counties adopting the form authorized by Article XI, section 3(2), of the Montana constitution may not exceed 6 years. Terms of office shall be established when the form is adopted by the voters.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(2)(g).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-431. Additional structural suboptions for county and consolidated governments

7-3-431. Additional structural suboptions for county and consolidated governments.
In county and consolidated local governments, the plan of government submitted to the qualified electors shall further define the structural characteristics of the form by including one item from each of the choices listed in 7-3-432 through 7-3-442. The officers shall have the powers and duties established by ordinance. After the establishment of any office, the commission may consolidate, as provided by law, two or more of the offices.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(part).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-432. Legal officer

7-3-432. Legal officer.
A legal officer, who may be called the county attorney:
(1) may be elected;
(2) may be appointed by the local government commission;
(3) may be appointed by the presiding officer of the local government commission;
(4) may be selected as provided by ordinance;
(5) may at the discretion of the commission be selected as provided by ordinance; or
(6) may not be included in this form as a separate office.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(3)(a); amd. Sec. 307, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-433. Law enforcement officer

7-3-433. Law enforcement officer.
A law enforcement officer, who may be called the sheriff:
(1) may be elected;
(2) may be appointed by the local government commission;
(3) may be appointed by the presiding officer of the local government commission;
(4) may be selected as provided by ordinance;
(5) may at the discretion of the commission be selected as provided by ordinance; or
(6) may not be included in this form as a separate office.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(3)(b); amd. Sec. 308, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-434. Clerk and recorder

7-3-434. Clerk and recorder.
A clerk and recorder:
(1) may be elected;
(2) may be appointed by the local government commission;
(3) may be appointed by the presiding officer of the local government commission;
(4) may be selected as provided by ordinance;
(5) may at the discretion of the commission be selected as provided by ordinance; or
(6) may not be included in this form as a separate office.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(3)(c); amd. Sec. 309, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-435. Clerk of district court

7-3-435. Clerk of district court.
A clerk of district court:
(1) may be elected;
(2) may be appointed by the local government commission;
(3) may be appointed by the presiding officer of the local government commission;
(4) may be selected as provided by ordinance;
(5) may at the discretion of the commission be selected as provided by ordinance; or
(6) may not be included in this form as a separate office.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(3)(d); amd. Sec. 310, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-436. Treasurer

7-3-436. Treasurer.
A treasurer:
(1) may be elected;
(2) may be appointed by the local government commission;
(3) may be appointed by the presiding officer of the local government commission;
(4) may be selected as provided by ordinance;
(5) may at the discretion of the commission be selected as provided by ordinance; or
(6) may not be included in this form as a separate office.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(3)(e); amd. Sec. 311, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-437. Surveyor

7-3-437. Surveyor.
A surveyor:
(1) may be elected;
(2) may be appointed by the local government commission;
(3) may be appointed by the presiding officer of the local government commission;
(4) may be selected as provided by ordinance;
(5) may at the discretion of the commission be selected as provided by ordinance; or
(6) may not be included in this form as a separate office.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(3)(f); amd. Sec. 312, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-438. Superintendent of schools

7-3-438. Superintendent of schools.
A superintendent of schools:
(1) may be elected;
(2) may be appointed by the local government commission;
(3) may be appointed by the presiding officer of the local government commission;
(4) may be selected as provided by ordinance;
(5) may at the discretion of the commission be selected as provided by ordinance; or
(6) may not be included in this form as a separate office.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(3)(g); amd. Sec. 313, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-439. Assessor

7-3-439. Assessor.
An assessor:
(1) may be elected;
(2) may be appointed by the local government commission;
(3) may be appointed by the presiding officer of the local government commission;
(4) may be selected as provided by ordinance;
(5) may at the discretion of the commission be selected as provided by ordinance; or
(6) may not be included in this form as a separate office.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(3)(h); amd. Sec. 314, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-440. Coroner

7-3-440. Coroner.
A coroner:
(1) may be elected;
(2) may be appointed by the local government commission;
(3) may be appointed by the presiding officer of the local government commission;
(4) may be selected as provided by ordinance;
(5) may at the discretion of the commission be selected as provided by ordinance; or
(6) may not be included in this form as a separate office.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(3)(i); amd. Sec. 315, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-441. Public administrator

7-3-441. Public administrator.
A public administrator:
(1) may be elected;
(2) may be appointed by the local government commission;
(3) may be appointed by the presiding officer of the local government commission;
(4) may be selected as provided by ordinance;
(5) may at the discretion of the commission be selected as provided by ordinance; or
(6) may not be included in this form as a separate office.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(3)(j); amd. Sec. 316, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 4. Commission Government › 7-3-442. Auditor

7-3-442. Auditor.
An auditor:
(1) may be elected;
(2) may be appointed by the local government commission;
(3) may be appointed by the presiding officer of the local government commission;
(4) may be selected as provided by ordinance;
(5) may at the discretion of the commission be selected as provided by ordinance; or
(6) may not be included in this form as a separate office.
History: En. 47A-3-205 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-205(3)(k); amd. Sec. 317, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 5. Commission-Presiding Officer Government › 7-3-501. Commission-presiding officer form

7-3-501. Commission-presiding officer form.
The commission-presiding officer form consists of an elected commission, which may also be referred to as the council, and a commission presiding officer, who may also be referred to as mayor or as president, elected by the members of the commission from their own number and serving at the pleasure of the commission.
History: En. 47A-3-206 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-206(part); amd. Sec. 318, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 5. Commission-Presiding Officer Government › 7-3-502. Nature of government

7-3-502. Nature of government.
The plan of government submitted to the qualified electors shall determine the powers of the local government unit by authorizing:
(1) general government powers; or
(2) self-government powers.
History: En. 47A-3-206 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-206(4).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 5. Commission-Presiding Officer Government › 7-3-503. Role and duties of presiding officer

7-3-503. Role and duties of presiding officer.
The commission presiding officer:
(1) must be recognized as the head of the local government unit, must have the power to vote as other members of the commission, and must be the chief executive officer of the local government;
(2) shall enforce laws, ordinances, and resolutions;
(3) shall perform duties required by law, ordinance, or resolution;
(4) shall administer the affairs of the local government;
(5) shall direct, supervise, and administer all departments, agencies, and offices of the local government except as otherwise provided by law or ordinance;
(6) shall carry out policies established by the commission;
(7) shall prepare and publish the commission agenda pursuant to 2-3-103;
(8) shall recommend measures to the commission;
(9) shall report to the commission on the affairs and financial condition of the local government;
(10) shall execute bonds, notes, contracts, and written obligations of the commission, subject to the approval of the commission;
(11) shall report to the commission as the commission may require;
(12) shall attend commission meetings and may take part in discussions;
(13) shall execute the budget adopted by the commission;
(14) shall appoint, with the consent of the commission, all members of boards and committees. However, the presiding officer may appoint without the consent of the commission temporary advisory committees.
(15) shall appoint, with the consent of a majority of the commission, all department heads, and the presiding officer may remove department heads and may appoint and remove all other employees;
(16) shall prepare the budget and present it to the commission for adoption; and
(17) shall exercise control and supervision over the administration of departments and boards.
History: En. 47A-3-206 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-206(part); amd. Sec. 319, Ch. 61, L. 2007; amd. Sec. 5, Ch. 396, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 5. Commission-Presiding Officer Government › 7-3-511. Structural suboptions

7-3-511. Structural suboptions.
The plan of government submitted to the qualified electors shall further define the structural characteristics of the form by including one item from each of the choices listed in 7-3-512 through 7-3-517.
History: En. 47A-3-206 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-206(part).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 5. Commission-Presiding Officer Government › 7-3-512. Selection of commission members

7-3-512. Selection of commission members.
The commission shall be:
(1) elected at large;
(2) elected by districts in which candidates must reside and which are apportioned by population;
(3) elected at large and nominated by a plan of nomination that may not preclude the possibility of the majority of the electors nominating candidates for the majority of the seats on the commission from persons residing in the district or districts where the majority of the electors reside; or
(4) elected by any combination of districts, in which candidates must reside and which are apportioned by population, and at large.
History: En. 47A-3-206 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-206(3)(a).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 5. Commission-Presiding Officer Government › 7-3-513. Type of election

7-3-513. Type of election.
Local government elections shall be conducted on a:
(1) partisan basis; or
(2) nonpartisan basis.
History: En. 47A-3-206 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-206(3)(b); amd. Sec. 6, Ch. 79, L. 1983.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 5. Commission-Presiding Officer Government › 7-3-514. Administrative assistants

7-3-514. Administrative assistants.
The commission presiding officer:
(1) shall appoint one or more administrative assistants to assist in the supervision and operation of the local government, and the administrative assistants are answerable solely to the presiding officer; or
(2) may appoint one or more administrative assistants to assist in the supervision and operation of the local government, and the administrative assistants are answerable solely to the presiding officer.
History: En. 47A-3-206 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-206(3)(c); amd. Sec. 320, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 5. Commission-Presiding Officer Government › 7-3-515. Terms of commission members

7-3-515. Terms of commission members.
Commission members shall be elected for:
(1) concurrent terms of office; or
(2) overlapping terms of office.
History: En. 47A-3-206 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-206(3)(d).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 5. Commission-Presiding Officer Government › 7-3-516. Size of commission and community councils

7-3-516. Size of commission and community councils.
The size of the commission, which shall be a number not less than five, shall be established when the form is adopted by the voters, and:
(1) community councils of at least three members shall be elected within each district to advise the commissioner from that district. Local governments conducting elections at large shall district according to population for the purpose of electing community councils; or
(2) community councils to advise commissioners may be authorized by ordinance.
History: En. 47A-3-206 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-206(3)(e).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 5. Commission-Presiding Officer Government › 7-3-517. Terms of elected officials

7-3-517. Terms of elected officials.
The term of office of elected officials may not exceed 4 years and shall be established when the form is adopted by the voters.
History: En. 47A-3-206 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 351, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-206(3)(f).
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 6. Town Meeting Government › 7-3-601. Town meeting form

7-3-601. Town meeting form.
(1) The town meeting form consists of an assembly of the qualified electors of a town, known as a "town meeting", an elected town presiding officer, who must be a qualified elector, and an optional elected town meeting moderator.
(2) The town meeting form may be adopted only by incorporated cities of less than 2,000 persons and incorporated towns of less than 2,000 persons, as determined by the most recent decennial census as conducted by the United States bureau of the census unless a more recent enumeration of inhabitants is made by the state, in which case that enumeration must be used for the purposes of this part. A unit of local government that adopts this form may retain it even though its population increases to more than 2,000.
(3) All legislative powers of the town vest in the town meeting. The town meeting may enact rules, resolutions, and ordinances.
History: En. 47A-3-207 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-207(1), (2); amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 275, L. 1987; amd. Sec. 321, Ch. 61, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 7. Local Government › Chapter 3. Alternative Forms of Local Government › Part 6. Town Meeting Government › 7-3-602. Nature of government

7-3-602. Nature of government.
The plan of government submitted to the qualified electors shall determine the powers of the local government unit by authorizing:
(1) general government powers; or
(2) self-government powers.
History: En. 47A-3-207 by Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 1975; R.C.M. 1947, 47A-3-207(11).