Tempers flared as county leaders clashed with constituents over budget cuts to the Yellowstone Art Museum this week.

A public hearing devolved into a heated exchange as the County Commission defended plans to funnel taxpayer dollars intended to support local museums into law enforcement and the jail, despite a barrage of objections.

Residents rallied against the decision to reduce funding for the YAM by about three quarters and use the money to help make up a $4 million shortfall in the sheriff’s 2026 budget.

Constituents from across the political spectrum joined forces in urging elected leaders to reconsider. Roiled by the opposition, Commission Chairman Mark Morse fired back, interrupting people who came to share concerns with their representatives during the county’s final annual

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