Congressman Zinke Delivers Over $2.3 Million in Federal Funding for Public Safety and Water Infrastructure in Powell and Granite Counties

DEER LODGE, MT - Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke traveled to Philipsburg and Deer Lodge to deliver ceremonial checks celebrating the more than $2.3 million in federal funding for public safety and water infrastructure projects in Granite and Powell counties. The funding is part of the more than $35 million he secured for Montana communities in fiscal year 2026 through the appropriations process.

"In Montana everyone has a duty, and my job is to make sure our county officials and volunteer first responders have the tools to do theirs," said Rep. Zinke. "In Powell County that means making sure volunteer fire departments serving some of the most remote terrain in the state have the equipment they need to respond quickly to accidents, emergencies, and search and rescue operations. In Philipsburg, it means upgrading an aging water transmission line so residents and businesses can rely on safe, dependable water. Thank you to all the local officials and community leaders who worked with my office to bring these projects forward and get them across the finish line."

The day began in Philipsburg, where Zinke delivered $1,750,000 for upgrades to Philipsburg's water transmission line. The project will improve the reliability of the town's water system and help ensure residents and businesses have dependable access to clean water.

"Updating Philipsburg's aging water system is long overdue, and this investment is a big first step," said Philipsburg Mayor Anne Fillmore. "Our transmission line has served the community for decades, but it's time to modernize the system to ensure residents and businesses continue to have reliable access to safe, clean water. We appreciate Congressman Zinke working with our town to help move this important project forward."

Congressman Zinke then traveled to Deer Lodge, where he delivered $554,969 to Powell County for equipment for volunteer fire departments. The funding will allow the rural volunteer fire department to purchase new equipment to handle the immense acreage under their jurisdiction.

"Powell County volunteer firefighters cover a huge area and respond to everything from structure fires to vehicle accidents and search and rescue calls," said Powell County Fire Warden and Deer Lodge Volunteer Fire Captain Chuck Smith. "This funding will help our departments purchase equipment we need to respond safely and quickly. We're grateful to Congressman Zinke for recognizing the needs of rural volunteer departments and helping us get the tools to do the job."

Zinke was joined throughout the day by local officials and community leaders including Philipsburg Mayor Anne Fillmore, Philipsburg town council members, grant writer Maureen Conner, Powell County Commissioners Dan Sager and Leonard Wortman, Powell County Sheriff Gavin Roselles, and Powell County fire chiefs.

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