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Group Sues Butte-Silver Bow County After 4,500 Signatures for Data Center Initiative Rejected
406 People First says county officials gave petitioners the wrong filing deadline and plans legal action after submitting signatures on July 31.
- On Wednesday, District Court Judge Frank Joseph granted a temporary restraining order allowing Butte-Silver Bow officials to continue counting signatures pending further court proceedings.
- The lawsuit followed Clerk and Recorder Cindy Sherman's rejection of 4,500 signatures, citing a July 13 deadline that contradicted the previously communicated August 17 date for submission.
- Proponents argue the initiative ensures public input on data center projects. Members of 406 People First say voters should decide on construction proposals through a democratic process.
- Butte-Silver Bow Chief Executive J.P. Gallagher stated he lacks authority over ballot initiatives, emphasizing his goal is ensuring compliance with Montana law and process clarity for residents.
- The situation mirrors a recent Yellowstone County case where officials halted a similar data center petition drive; a judge there ultimately upheld the county's rejection after officials cited an incorrect deadline.
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12 Articles
Montana StandardReposted by 
The Billings Gazette
The Billings GazetteButte data center petitioners file suit over submission deadline; restraining order approved
Butte-Silver Bow County petitioners filed a lawsuit Wednesday after being notified their signatures for a ballot initiative were too late. Judge Frank Joseph approved a subsequent restraining order.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources12
Leaning Left0Leaning Right2Center9Last UpdatedBias Distribution82% Center
Bias Distribution
- 82% of the sources are Center
82% Center
C 82%
R 18%
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