Mitchell speaks out on the doughnut decision

First, I applaud our three Flathead County Commissioners for their support in this six-year legal battle for doughnut representation and property rights. They did the right thing, and it’s paid off for thousands of doughnut residents.

Second, I’m happy that the Montana Supreme Court upheld Flathead County District Court Judge David Ortley’s decision to allow Flathead County to assume doughnut jurisdiction.

I’ve long believed doughnut residents should be governed by the county commissioners, who they can vote for, and not Whitefish City Councilors, who they can’t vote for. That’s why, while I was still on the Whitefish City Council last summer, I voted against appealing Judge Ortley’s decision to the Supreme Court.

Lastly, I’m glad the county immediately moved to take jurisdiction over all doughnut areas. If Whitefish wants to regulate land beyond the current city limits, it should do so through an annexation proceeding, since annexed residents can then vote in city elections.          

Phil Mitchell, of Whitefish, is the Republican candidate for Flathead County Commissioner.