In a recent Billings City Council meeting, community safety took center stage as local leaders discussed a proposed pilot program aimed at enhancing security in the eBird District. The initiative, presented by a district representative, seeks to address rising concerns over suspicious activities and traffic-related incidents that have plagued the area.

The proposal outlines a $30,000 budget to partner with Sundown Security, a firm already operating successfully on Montana Avenue. The plan is to deploy additional security measures in the eBird District, where recent statistics revealed that 38 out of 54 police calls were related to suspicious activity. The goal is to alleviate pressure on local law enforcement by providing a dedicated security presence, allowing police to focus on more urgent matters.

The pilot program is designed to run for three to six months, with an initial investment of $15,000 to kickstart operations. The remaining funds would be contingent on community support and participation from local businesses. The representative emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of safety to encourage economic development in the district, which is seeing new establishments like breweries and veterinary clinics.

Council members engaged in a robust discussion about the funding process and the necessity of taxpayer dollars to support the initiative. Some expressed concerns about whether local businesses would be willing to contribute financially without public funding. In response, it was noted that the program is modeled after successful initiatives in downtown Billings, where businesses have benefitted from similar security measures funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF).

The council ultimately voted unanimously in favor of the proposal, signaling a commitment to improving safety in the eBird District. As the program unfolds, community leaders hope to gather data on its effectiveness, potentially paving the way for a more permanent solution to enhance public safety in the area. The pilot program not only aims to reduce crime but also to foster a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike, reinforcing the district's potential for growth and revitalization.