Code Enforcement Officer from Codilyn Evenson1
Judi Funk
From:Codilyn Evenson <codilyn@icloud.com>
Sent:Tuesday, March 25, 2025 12:58 PM
To:Kalispell Meetings Public Comment
Subject:EXTERNAL Code Enforcement Officer
City of Kalispell City Council
201 1st Ave E
Kalispell, MT 59901
Members of the City Council,
I am writing to address a concern that has recently come to my attention regarding the need for a
dedicated Code Enforcement Officer for the City of Kalispell. Having heard from Development Services
about this pressing issue, it appears that there is hesitation from the council to move forward with
creating such a position. I strongly believe this is a significant oversight and urge you to reconsider.
Allow me to introduce myself and share my background to offer context to my perspective. I am currently
the Short-Term Rental Specialist for the City of Whitefish. Prior to this role, I served as the Permit
Technician for the City of Kalispell for nearly a decade. During my tenure, I witnessed firsthand the
overwhelming volume of calls related to code enforcement matters—enough to unquestionably justify a
full-time position.
Residents frequently contacted us in distress, often on the verge of tears, due to unresolved issues with
neighboring properties. I can immediately think of at least 50 properties in need of abatement for a range
of concerns, including overgrown weeds, structural decay, excessive garbage, and abandoned vehicles.
These issues not only affect the visual appeal of our community but also have tangible impacts on
property values and the quality of life for our residents.
Furthermore, a Code Enforcement Officer would be instrumental in ensuring compliance with sign
ordinances, right of way issues, snow removal, vacant buildings, and many other critical aspect of
maintaining order and aesthetics in our city. Without a dedicated professional to address these
concerns, the burden falls unfairly on residents and other city departments, creating inefficiency and
frustration from both staff and community members.
I implore the council to take this matter seriously and prioritize the well-being of Kalispell’s citizens by
implementing a dedicated Code Enforcement Officer position. It is our responsibility as a community to
uphold standards that foster pride and fairness for all residents. Allowing neglected properties to persist
not only diminishes the value of surrounding homes but also erodes the sense of community that makes
Kalispell special.
Thank you for considering this important issue. I trust that you will take the time to evaluate the necessity
and benefits of this role, and I am confident that this program will ultimately strengthen the city we all
care so deeply about.
Sincerely,
2
Codi Evenson