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Commission moves to modernize downtown urban renewal plan; first reading scheduled Aug. 4
Summary
The Commission adopted a resolution of intention and accepted first reading of an amended Downtown Urban Renewal Plan to modernize eligible TIF projects (including workforce housing and parking modernization) and set a public hearing for Aug. 4, 2026.
City staff presented proposed amendments to the 2012 Downtown Urban Renewal Plan to align it with current Montana law and the City’s Future Great Falls 2045 plan. The amendments expand eligible projects for downtown Tax Increment Financing (TIF) — including workforce housing, parking modernization, adaptive reuse, and pedestrian improvements — and add the Super TIF Advisory Committee consistent with state law changes.
Strategic Development Officer Brock Cherry said the action does not appropriate funding or authorize any specific project; it updates the plan so future TIF investments can be considered under a modernized policy framework. Commissioner Joe McKenney asked whether workforce housing opportunities exist for upper-floor housing; Cherry said earlier work estimated upper-floor infill could cost roughly $200,000 per dwelling unit, making projects challenging but possible.
The Commission adopted Resolution of Intention 10646 and accepted Ordinance 3286 on first reading, setting a public hearing for August 4, 2026. The vote was unanimous.
