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Panel hears proposal to let Heritage Commission negotiate 99‑year leases to fund historic preservation
Summary
House Bill 680 would let the Montana Heritage Commission enter long‑term (99‑year) leases with private businesses so private capital can address deferred maintenance at historic properties; proponents said it would preserve assets without using state dollars, while members asked about oversight, preservation guardrails and risks from construction liens.
Representative Ken Walsh (R‑House District 69) introduced House Bill 680 to allow the Montana Heritage Commission—administratively attached to the Department of Commerce—to execute up to 99‑year leases with private lessees who would invest private capital to rehabilitate, maintain and operate historic properties such as those in Virginia City, Nevada City and Reader’s Alley.
Deputy Director Mandy Rambo (Department of Commerce) told the committee the Montana Heritage Commission’s annual budget…
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