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Commission accepts tourism district plan after report showing 1.7 million overnight visitors
Summary
Great Falls Montana Tourism reported 1.7 million overnight visitors and $275 million in local spending last year; the commission approved the TBID FY26 budget and work plan after hearing the presentation and local endorsements.
Rebecca Ingham, representing Great Falls Montana Tourism, presented the Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) fiscal year 2026 plan and reported last year’s metrics: about 1.7 million overnight visitors and more than $275 million in visitor spending in Cascade County. She described marketing and public-relations efforts, a new film-and-television production strategy, and initiatives like an event training resource and a Pledge Great Falls residency initiative.
Ingham said the assessments are final only after lodging properties report and that the FY26 assessment budget shown to the commission is an estimate to be amended after final collections are confirmed. Supporters including Kelly Pierce and Brett Downey described tourism’s role in downtown momentum and in bringing outside dollars to local businesses.
Commissioner Wilson moved to accept the TBID FY26 budget and work plan; the motion was seconded and carried. Staff will report final assessment collections and amend the budget if necessary once lodging reports are complete.
