Relocating to Kalispell area? Construction work? (property taxes, travel, job)

[hockeymom13]

My family lives in a small Wyoming mountain town. We absolutely love it but would like to be near a few more ammenities & health care. We're in the middle of a oil boom but my fear is what happens down the road. We're looking for a nice community to stay & raise our kids..not move in one day, gone the next. We love the Jackson Hole area but REAL people can't afford to live there (land starts at $650,000/lot!! LOL!) The cold doesn't bother us & we love spending the day together in the wilderness!

We've both decided the town must be in the mountains with public land near by, SAFE for our 4 small children, have good schools, and of course..hockey (which I hear Kalispell now has!) Are there any travel hockey teams from that area?

Some of the economic info on the web is so outdated and the economy is a huge concern of mine. My husband is a very well respected builder (small scale - additions, remodels, 1 spec/year - no developments) and I'm worndering if there's currently work in that field. He would also look at taking a construction job with someone. Also, what are the average property taxes in the Kalispell area per $100,000?

I've read alot that "outsiders" aren't welcomed. I certainly hope that's not the case. We are honest, hardworking, and family oriented...looking to be an active part of a community.

Any candid advice or info you could provide would be greatly appreciated!!!

We're still in the "talking" phase but when we move, it will be for good & I want to make an educated decision!!

Thanks!

[PanTerra]

I love Kalispell, the area is beautiful.