Speaker of the House Brandon Ler, R-Savage speaks during a press conference on MEPA legislation Feb. 12, 2025. (Nathaniel Bailey for the Daily Montanan)

Montana Speaker of the House Brandon Ler criticized an 8% tax hike in Missoula County and said the increase is evidence more property tax reform is needed in the Treasure State.

“Montanans deserve stability, not surprise increases every budget cycle,” said Ler, a Republican from Savage, in a statement earlier this week. “It’s time to have a serious discussion about putting limits on local mill increases in future sessions so families can plan and budget with confidence.”

But Missoula County Commissioners said the impact on residential homeowners actually amounts to an 11% decrease — and the dollars are mostly going to paying a living wa

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