Counselors of Real Estate begin technical-assistance visit to Billings on housing and workforce

The Board of County Commissioners heard on Aug. 6 that a nationwide team of housing consultants will spend the week in Billings to develop implementable steps to address workforce and entry‑level housing needs.

Steve (S7), who introduced the team, said the county secured a competitive technical‑assistance grant. “We were 1 of 4 nationwide grants out of 1,400 local associations to receive this technical assistance grant,” he told the commissioners, describing the assignment as focused on city, county and state lands."

Wendy Timm (S8), who is leading the local engagement for the Counselors of Real Estate, described the team’s background in high‑density and affordable housing and introduced the consultants who will take part: Roger Sherman, an architect who leads affordable housing for Gensler; Dana Rowan, with experience in asset management and planning; Mark Reiling, familiar with Montana and commercial real estate; and Mike Christiansen, a valuation specialist. Timm said the group’s community outreach lead, Samantha DeColvin, handed out flyers to attendees.

Timm emphasized the visit is one step in an implementation process, not a final report: the team’s presentation this morning was described as an interim summary, with a fuller implementation plan to follow. County officials said they expect the work to examine public and private land options and produce practical recommendations staff can pursue with local partners.

The meeting did not include formal requests for new appropriations or votes tied specifically to the consultants’ recommendations; officials said the effort is part of a broader housing strategy that aligns with other local and state efforts. The board is scheduled to receive additional updates as the consulting team finalizes its implementation plan.