State Plan for Forensic Mental Health Facility Near Billings Advances

If you call Yellowstone County home, especially if you’re in or around Laurel, there’s something you’ll want to keep an eye on.

The State of Montana has its eye on a piece of property just outside the city limits. Nothing’s set in stone yet, but things are starting to move forward.

State Eyes Laurel-Area Land for Forensic Mental Health Facility

The state has informed Yellowstone County that it’s considering using the land at 1425 US Highway 10 in Laurel for government use. One idea on the table right now is a forensic mental health facility.

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A forensic mental health facility is a secure, hospital-style setting that provides psychiatric care and treatment to individuals who have been involved in the criminal justice system, typically people found not guilty by reason of insanity, deemed incompetent to stand trial, or transferred from corrections due to serious mental illness.

Zoning Conflict Triggers Mandatory Public Hearing

Since this proposal might not align with local zoning rules, Montana law requires the county to hold a public hearing within 30 days of receiving the notice. Because of that requirement, Yellowstone County Commissioners are beginning the process.

Commissioners Meet April 2 to Set Hearing Date

Before the public hearing, county commissioners will meet on Thursday, April 2, at 9 a.m. to determine how the process will work and to set a date for the hearing. At that meeting, they’ll pick the official date for the public hearing.

County’s Role Is Limited to Feedback, Not Approval

County commissioners won’t be making any final calls at the discussion meeting or even at the public hearing. Since the land would be used by the state, local zoning rules don’t apply as they usually do. The county’s main job here is to hold the hearing and share feedback.

Even though it’s still early days, projects like this can affect the people who live nearby. People usually start thinking about things like traffic, safety, property values, and how the neighborhood feels when something like this is proposed. That’s why these meetings are important.

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How to Make Your Voice Heard

If you have questions, concerns, or just want to keep up with what’s happening, you’re welcome to attend the public meeting once a date has been scheduled, or, if you'd like, the commissioners' meeting on April 2.