The Butte-Silver Bow Planning Board held a public hearing on August 1, 2025, to discuss the draft of a new zoning ordinance that has raised concerns among local business owners, particularly those operating the Silver Bow Drive-In Theater. The meeting highlighted the potential impact of the proposed zoning changes on the drive-in, which has been a community landmark for decades.

During the hearing, Lynn Jonart, co-owner of the drive-in, expressed worries that the updated zoning draft does not adequately protect the theater from being classified as nonconforming due to its location in an area that may transition to a high-intensity industrial zone. Jonart emphasized the importance of the drive-in as a cultural asset, noting that it attracts visitors and contributes to the local economy. She urged the board to consider protections for existing businesses in the RM-2 zone, advocating for a commercial designation closer to the interstate to safeguard the drive-in and its surrounding area.

Jonart also pointed out discrepancies in the zoning draft, which states that nonconforming uses should be allowed to continue but not encouraged to survive. She argued that this contradicts the board's stated goals of balancing property rights with new zoning objectives. Jonart's family has operated the drive-in since 1975, and she highlighted the need for the board to collaborate with them to ensure the theater's viability for future generations.

Jens Hansen, another co-owner, echoed Jonart's sentiments, emphasizing the drive-in's role in storytelling and community entertainment. He raised concerns about how increased lighting and noise from potential industrial developments could affect the drive-in's operations and the quality of the viewing experience. Hansen urged the board to recognize the drive-in's significance and to consider the long-term implications of the zoning changes on local businesses.

The meeting concluded with a call for the planning board to take the concerns of the drive-in owners into account as they finalize the zoning ordinance. The outcome of this public hearing could significantly influence the future of the Silver Bow Drive-In and its ability to continue serving the Butte community.