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City Commission approves Business Improvement District FY26 budget and work plan
Summary
The commission accepted the BID's FY26 budget and work plan after hearing from BID director Kelly Pierce and local supporters who credited the district with downtown revitalization, grant activity and beautification efforts.
The City Commission voted to accept the Business Improvement District (BID) fiscal year 2026 budget and work plan following a staff presentation and public testimony.
Kelly Pierce, executive director of the downtown BID, told commissioners the district had a successful fiscal year and highlighted four interior grant awards, nine business incentive grant applicants, expanded beautification (including pressure-washing and new flags in the 700 block) and efforts to improve downtown safety and cleanliness. “We had 4 interior grant programs… and 9 business incentive grants,” Pierce said during her presentation.
Proponents at the public hearing — including Rebecca Ingham of Great Falls Montana Tourism, Sherry Airy (Neighborhoods Great Falls / BID treasurer) and Brett Downey of the Great Falls Development Alliance — said the BID’s work supports local businesses, increases safety and attracts investment. Commissioners commended the district’s contributions to downtown momentum and accepted the budget.
The motion to accept the BID FY26 budget and work plan was moved by Commissioner Wolf and seconded; the commission voted in favor and the motion carried. No amendments or conditions were attached to the approval at the meeting.
