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title: What are Public Hearing Minutes?
description: Montana law requires verbatim recordings and detailed minutes for public hearings involving quasi-judicial decisions. Learn how proper documentation ensures transparency, supports judicial review, and protects the integrity of council actions.
---

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January 12, 2026

# What are Public Hearing Minutes?

## Recording Public Hearings: Legal Requirements for Quasi-Judicial Proceedings in Montana Municipalities

Because a public hearing usually involves a quasi-judicial decision by the council and is therefore subject to review by Montana Municipal Officials Handbook 48 a district court, a verbatim recording should be made of all proceedings of a public hearing conducted by the council or by a subcommittee of the council or by a hearing examiner appointed by the council pursuant to 7-1‐4131, MCA. The tape recording must be retained so that a transcript can later be prepared if required for review in a judicial process. Additionally, procedural minutes should be prepared that include the items noted in Section 2.416 and a clear entry noting the time of the opening and closing of the hearing, the names of all persons testifying during the hearing and a listing of all documents and written statements presented to the council. If the hearing is continued to a certain date, that date should also be included in the minutes of a public hearing. 

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