Community Impact

Public services like schools, libraries, and hospitals are funded by property taxes within their district boundaries. Big Sky, an unincorporated community and designated Big Sky Resort Area District (BSRAD), spans Gallatin and Madison Counties, and contributes significantly to public services across both.

In 2022, Big Sky properties generated $58.1 million in property taxes, with Madison County collecting $21.5 million. These funds account for 85% of the Madison Valley Hospital District’s taxable value and provide essential funding for public services across Madison County, including the hospital district, Ennis School District, and Madison Valley Library District. These services benefit the entire region, including the workforce that supports Big Sky’s success and growth.

The Big Sky Capital Improvement Plan explores ways to keep Big Sky’s property tax revenues exclusively within the resort area, including the Big Sky Wellness District Initiative and annexation of the Ennis School District. Diverting these taxes would severely impact Madison County, as Big Sky accounts for about 80% of the county’s taxable value.

Read More About the Critical Role of Big Sky’s Property Taxes in Gallatin and Madison Counties

If efforts to change the districts are successful, this would:  

  • Any budget shortfall would limit Madison Valley Medical Center’s ability to provide vital care and jeopardize healthcare access to residents in Big Sky and throughout Madison County.  

  • While property taxes in Big Sky may decrease, lost funding would likely force increased taxes on communities outside of Big Sky.

  • A significant funding shortfall will also effect the community through its schools and libraries, further weakening Madison County’s shared resources.