The City of Billings is a member of the Beartooth RC&D Economic Development District, which emphasizes regional economic development planning and projects that create jobs.  Other members are the Counties of Big Horn, Carbon, Stillwater, Sweet Grass and Yellowstone; the City of Laurel; the Big Sky Economic Development Authority; and the Crow Tribe.  The organization is headquartered in Joliet.

As discussed in January, the City has the authority to appoint a member to the Beartooth RC&D Board of Directors.  Former City Council representative Ed Ulledalen has been term-limited, and a new City representative needs to be appointed.  The Mayor is given the authority under City Charter Section 5.02 Appointment, Compensation, Terms and Qualification, to appoint members with the consent of the Council.  Mayor Hanel recommends the appointment of Al Swanson to take over the Beartooth RC&D Board of Directors post.

The Council may:

1. Appoint Mr. Swanson to the Board of Directors, as recommended by the Mayor;
2. Choose not to make an appointment; or
3. Ask the Mayor to make another recommendation.

Beartooth RC&D is a Federally grant-funded Economic Development District, with a match to be provided by local government members.  Billings' assessed share of the match is $9,663.93, which represents 36% of Yellowstone County's total assessment of $26,844.26.  The assessment is composed of a $3,500 base and a per capita charge of .1537 times the County population of 151,882, or $23,344.26.

In addition, the City pays Board membership dues of $100.00, for a total City contribution for 2014 of $9,763.93.

The Mayor recommends the appointment of Al Swanson to the Beartooth RC&D Board of Directors.