Stronger Jail. Safer Future. Secure Flathead.
"Justice should be guided by the law, not the number of available beds."
-Judge Hummel
An Overcrowded, Worn-Down Jail. A Growing Community.
Flathead County is at a crossroads.
Our overcrowded, outdated jail no longer meets the needs of a growing, thriving community. It’s putting public safety, correctional officers, and the future of Flathead at risk.
The Flathead County Jail Bond Initiative is a long-term solution to protect our community, support law enforcement, and invest in a safer future.
Get the Facts. Get out and vote on November 4, 2025!
Current Jail Conditions
The current jail, built in 1987 with an initial capacity of just 63 inmates, has struggled to keep pace with the rapid growth of Flathead County’s population, which has nearly doubled since its construction.
In 2018, the jail utilized all available space and reached its maximum safe operational capacity of 96 beds. Unfortunately, the jail’s linear design, with poor sightlines and inadequate support space, does not allow for further capacity increases. The jail was never intended to handle the current high demand.
As a result, the jail is worn down, and the lack of space has created numerous challenges that negatively affect inmates, staff, and the Flathead community.
Learn more about these challenges and experience the current jail’s condition for yourself.
A Stronger Jail for a Safer Future and a Secure Flathead.
The new Flathead County Jail will be constructed on a 115-acre site located at 225 Snowline Lane, south of Kalispell. The county purchased the land for $3.9 million in February 2024, specifically for the new facility.
Designed with future needs in mind, the facility will feature:
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Double the current inmate capacity, with potential for future expansion.
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A safe and efficient workspace for jail staff and officers.
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The latest technology to enhance safety and improve operational efficiency.
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A specialized housing unit, allowing for the proper segregation of violent inmates and those with special needs, and equipped with healthcare and mental health support facilities.
Additionally, the facility will integrate justice and law enforcement services into one location, providing space for the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, courtrooms, judges’ chambers, and support staff.
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Flathead County Jail Bond Proposal
Flathead County residents will vote on this bond initiative on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
The Time to Act is Now. Either we pay now or pay more later.
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Flathead County’s population will continue to grow, and as a result, the crime rate will continue to rise, requiring more jail capacity and law enforcement services.
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The current jail continues to age, resulting in higher maintenance costs and potential legal challenges that could result in future lawsuits, costing the county money.
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The need for a new jail will continue to grow, and so will the costs to construct a new jail.
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HOW CAN WE HELP?
Flathead County is committed to transparency and open communication throughout the bond proposal process.
We encourage community members to reach out with any questions or concerns. Our goal is to ensure you have the information you need to make an informed decision and understand the full impact of this important project.
Email: Contact Dawn May at Dawn@bigskypublicrelations.com.
Media inquiries: Please contact Dawn May at Dawn@bigskypublicrelations.com.