From:fazzinas1@aol.com
To:tomk@townpump.com,mikek@townpump.com,dank@townpump.com,Jennifer.weisgram@townpump.com,billm@townpump.com...
 
Dear Kenneally Family and Town Pump Leadership Team,

My name is Sierra Futch and I am a lifelong Montana resident. On behalf of the residents of Frenchtown, Huson, and the Wye, and our nonprofit organization, Keeping Frenchtown LLC, we respectfully request that Town Pump withdraw its proposed convenience store and casino project planned between the Frenchtown Elementary and Middle/High School campuses.
Our nonprofit, currently in the process of becoming a 501(c)(3), was formed to preserve the safety, integrity, and character of our community. The people of Frenchtown take pride in our town - its small size, family-oriented culture, and connection to the natural beauty of the Clark Fork Valley. We have long respected Town Pump’s Montana roots and your reputation for community-minded business practices. It is in that shared spirit that we appeal to your leadership today.

Community Concerns

1.      Safety and Proximity to Schools

The proposed Town Pump convenience store and casino would sit between Frenchtown's two school campuses - approximately one-quarter mile from the Middle and High School campus and slightly farther from the Elementary School campus. This area already experiences heavy traffic congestion during school drop-off, lunch, and pick-up hours.  There is a heavily trafficked bike and walking path that runs besides Frontage road there, that you are requesting ingress and egress through in 2 locations. Introducing a large commercial establishment that sells alcohol in both the convenience store and the casino and operates a gambling venue so close to our schools, would significantly increase safety risks and expose students to adult-oriented activities.
Frenchtown has no local law enforcement presence and our small volunteer fire department is limited in staff and equipment. Increased traffic volume, alcohol sales, and casino operations will further strain emergency services and elevate the risk of alcohol-related incidents and crime in our community. 

2.      Environmental and Water Quality Risks

The water table at the proposed site is extremely shallow - approximately six feet deep. This makes the area particularly vulnerable to contamination from fuel, runoff, or chemical leaks. Families in proximity rely on private wells and the Clark Fork aquifer for drinking water, so even minor contamination could have long-term health impacts. 

3.      Impact on Community Character and Quality of Life

Frenchtown is a small, residential and rural community. Residents value open space, scenic beauty, and peaceful living. A large commercial facility with two,100-foot digital signs, extensive lighting, and extended operating hours would alter the visual and cultural landscape of our town.  

4.      Community Consensus and Public Opposition

Out of a population of roughly 3,100, 2,458 residents have signed a petition opposing this project. Local media coverage and a formal letter from the Frenchtown School Board emphasize our concerns: 

·         Change.org Petition

·         KPAX News: Frenchtown residents push back against proposed Town Pump

·         KPAX News: Town Pump proposal draws local opposition

·         Missoulian Article 1

·         Missoulian Article 2

 The Frenchtown School Board has submitted a formal letter requesting a traffic study due to serious safety concerns. Copies of this letter and the petition signatures are attached.

Our Request and Constructive Solution

We respectfully request that Town Pump withdraw from the proposed Frenchtown project and consider selling the property back to the community or to Keeping Frenchtown LLC.  Town Pump has a travel plaza eight miles away at the Wye, where there are 3 other additional large fuel facilities, which sufficiently serves local and commuter traffic. The addition of another facility so close to schools and residential areas is unnecessary and risks damaging your company’s reputation. 

Supporting Materials (Attached)

1.      Signed Petition Summary – all petition signatures

2.      Supporter Voices – selected statements from residents sharing their concerns

3.      Frenchtown School Board Letter – official correspondence regarding safety and traffic

A Closing Appeal

The people of Frenchtown are not against growth or progress, but growth must respect the people and places it touches. We urge you to stand with us in protecting our children, homes, and way of life. Please withdraw this proposal and allow Frenchtown to remain a safe, peaceful, and close-knit community that reflects the best of Montana values. We look forward to your response.

With gratitude and hope,

Sierra Futch
On behalf of the Residents of Frenchtown, Huson, and the Wye
Keeping Frenchtown LLC
PO Box 172, Frenchtown, MT 59834
Email: fazzinas1@aol.com