What Should Montana Do With The Governor’s Mansion Now?

What’s Next For The Governor’s Mansion?

From 1959 until 2021, a house on the corner of Carson Street and Broadway in Helena served as home to 12 Montana governors.

Now, the state is trying to figure out what to do with what most people call the "governor's mansion."

Previous Renovation Plans And Challenges

The building was built to replace the original mansion and earned the nickname the "ship of state." It’s been sitting empty since Governor Greg Gianforte and his wife moved out in 2021.

Back in 2019, the legislature approved nearly 2 million dollars for repairs and upgrades, but those plans were eventually put on hold. Then in 2024, the Gianfortes bought the Samuel T. Hauser Mansion with plans to donate it to the state after the governor’s term ends.

Public Input: What Should Happen To The Mansion?

Today, the state is asking Montanans what they think should happen with the old mansion. A survey was sent out with three options: remodel it for other state uses, sell it, or tear it down and turn the space into a green area.

If the mansion were to be used again, there’s still a lot of work to do. Aging fixtures, outdated electrical systems, asbestos removal, and several other issues would all need attention.

Have Your Say On The Mansion’s Future

If you want to learn more or make your voice heard, click here.

Source: KTVH