For 75 years, our family-run lumber mill, Pyramid Mountain Lumber, has been a cornerstone of Seeley Lake. They've weathered economic storms, provided jobs for generations and supplied lumber that built countless homes across Montana. Now, facing a seemingly insurmountable challenge — the lack of affordable housing — they are on the verge of shutting down.
The irony is gut-wrenching. They offer good wages, a stable work environment and the satisfaction of contributing to Montana's infrastructure. Yet, they can't find enough qualified workers to produce enough product to survive because those workers simply can't afford to live here. Rents are skyrocketing, pushing potential employees out of reach.
The consequences of closing the mill will be devastating. It's not just the loss of jobs for this dedicated team, most of whom have been with us for years. It's the ripple effect on our community — families losing their primary source of income, businesses losing customers and the very fabric of Seeley Lake fraying at the edges.
This isn't just our story. Across Montana, small businesses like Pyramid are struggling to stay afloat due to the lack of affordable housing options for working families. It's a crisis demanding immediate attention.
We need government intervention. We need programs that incentivize the construction of affordable housing units, provide rental assistance to low- and middle-income earners, or explore innovative solutions like tiny homes or micro-apartments.
This isn't a handout; it's an investment in Montana's future. A thriving workforce is the backbone of a healthy economy. Affordable housing is the foundation upon which that workforce can build a life, raise families and contribute to their communities.
The story of the Seeley Lake mill shouldn't end with a closed door and a community in despair. It's a call to action. We urge our leaders to address this critical issue before more Montana families and businesses are forced to face the same heartbreaking reality. Let's work together to ensure that everyone in Montana has a fair shot at a secure future, a roof over their heads and the opportunity to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of our state.
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