City Council approved the current downtown development strategic plan, The Framework Plan, in December, 1997.  Since the sunset of the "old" Tax Increment District was to occur in 2008, the Plan was supposed to be a 10-year plan.  The Downtown Billings Partnership (DBP) and associated groups continued implementing the plan when the new district was created and has accomplished a lot of the plan priorities.  The DBP would now like to update The Framework Plan and is requesting up to $80,000 of TIF funds for the project.  The DBP has selected a consultant, but is waiting for Council funding approval before executing a contract and beginning the planning process.    

City Council may approve up to $80,000 for an updated downtown development strategic plan or Council may decline to appropriate the funds.  If Council denies the request, the DBP will have to solicit other funds or abandon the planning project.

The Expanded N. 27th Street Urban Renewal District, Fund 203, has an estimated FY 2017 ending fund balance of $2,700,000, so there are sufficient funds for this project.  A comprehensive strategic plan will help the DBP and the City Council prioritize future project spending.

The Downtown Billings Partnership Board of Directors recommends that the City Council approve the Expanded N. 27th Street funds of up to $80,000 for an updated downtown development strategic plan.