Regional economic-development group briefs Treasure County commissioners on grants, staffing and energy projects

Southeastern Montana Development told Treasure County commissioners that the nonprofit continues to support small-business counseling, planning and grant work in the region and has helped channel roughly $2.1 million of impact funding into the county over the past 12 years.

"We've been involved with a little over $2,100,000 of impact funds back into Treasure County," Jim Acheson said, describing loans, grants and planning assistance the nonprofit provides. Acheson told the board the group offers low‑interest loan programs and grant administration and can help local projects apply for state and federal funding.

Acheson also informed the board that a senior staff member, Julie, is reducing her hours and that the nonprofit will recruit replacements. He urged commissioners to consider membership dues and regional cooperation — including CPACE financing and a state housing law (referred to at the meeting as HB 819) — to help secure resources for local projects.

The presentation included a regional update: Acheson noted population trends in the region and described ongoing energy and infrastructure planning, including proposed solar and battery storage projects in nearby counties that could create opportunities for local contracting and tax base growth.

Commissioners thanked the presenter and agreed to stay in touch about potential projects and grant partnerships. No formal action was taken during the presentation; the board recorded the briefing and asked staff to follow up on specific grant and membership questions.