The Yellowstone Kelly Interpretive Site (YKIS) at Swords Park is nearing completion, and Change Order #5 for $6,215 has been presented for the City's approval. This project has been a cooperative effort of the Greater Billings Area Chamber of Commerce, the City and the community to restore the 1928 grave of Luther Sage "Yellowstone" Kelly, a post-Civil War soldier, hunter and guide. The City originally contributed $50,000 as the lead donation for the project. The Chamber has continued that process by providing cash donations it has solicited, including funding for this most recent Change Order.

The Chamber will deposit $6,215 with the Parks, Recreation and Preservation Foundation in the Yellowstone Kelly Interpretative Site account.  These funds will be transferred upon approval of Change Order #5.

City Council may:

• Accept the donation to complete the project;
• Delay approval; or
• Decline to accept the contribution, which would leave the YKIS project incomplete or require other funding to pay for the proposed change order.

Due to the donation of $6,215 by the Greater Billings Area Chamber of Commerce, there will be no financial impact to the City for Change Order #5. The  Chamber has gathered 94% of the funds for the project. Of that amount, $74,000 is based on pledges over four years, with the City providing short-term financing.

Staff recommends that the City Council accept $6,215 in donations from the Greater Billings Area Chamber of Commerce to complete Change Order #5.