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Montana municipal and county classification edit
In Montana, United States, municipalities and counties are divided into classes, as called for by state statute[1][2]. The classification of municipalities divides incorporated municipalities into one of four categories. The classification scheme is based on the population of each municipality. Members of the three largest classes are deemed "cities", while the members of the fourth class are called "towns". Cities and towns are classified at the time of their organization, and are reorganized when they change classification due to an increase or decrease in population. Unincorporated places or census designated places fall outside of this scheme, and are subject to county governance.
The classification of counties is based on taxable valuation of the property within the county on which a tax levy is made. The county classification scheme is divided into seven classes--first through seventh class.[2] The purpose for the county classification system is to regulate compensation and salaries of county officers not otherwise provided for. The class to which a county belongs is determined by the county commissioners in September of every year.[3]
First class city edit
Every city having a population of 10,000 or more is classed as a city of the first class.[1] Under certain exceptions municipalities with a population of between 9,000 and 10,000 may elect, by resolution to be either a first or second class city.[4]
Currently, the cities of Billings, Bozeman, Great Falls, Helena, Kalispell, and Missoula are first class cities.
Second class city edit
Every city having a population of less than 10,000 but more than 5,000 is a city of the second class.[1] Under similar exceptions as above municipalities with a population of between 5,000 and 7,500 may elect, by resolution to be either a second or third class city.[4]
Currently, the cities of Havre, Miles City, Whitefish, Belgrade, Livingston, Laurel, and Lewistown are second class cities.
Third class city edit
Every city having a population of more than 1,000 but less than 5,000 is a city of the third class.[1] Under similar exceptions as with first and second class cities, municipalities with a population of between 1,000 and 2,500 may, by resolution be classified as either a town or third class city.[4]
Notes and references edit
- ^ a b c d "Classification of municipalities, Montana Code Annotated, (M.C.A.) 7-1-4111". Retrieved 2007-10-06.
- ^ a b "Classification of counties, M.C.A. 7-1-2111". Retrieved 2007-10-07.
- ^ "Designation of county classfication by county commissioners, M.C.A. 7-1-2112". Retrieved 2007-10-07.
- ^ a b c "Exceptions from classfication system, M.C.A. 7-1-4112". Retrieved 2007-10-06.