A new push for establishing a business improvement district in Uptown Butte is gaining momentum, with advocates planning a series of meetings and outreach efforts to garner support from property owners in the area. The effort, which is backed by $50,000 in grants and contributions, is being spearheaded by a consultant from Missoula-based Cascadia Management Group.
The proposed business improvement district would cover about 30 blocks in the central business district of Uptown Butte, with the goal of funding enhancements to attract more visitors and patrons to the area. Owners of more than 60% of the property area must support the district for it to be established, and organizers are working diligently to gather the necessary petition signatures.
If established, property owners would pay an annual assessment to fund improvements in the district, with a board of business owners overseeing the spending decisions. The current proposal includes a flat fee, as well as percentages based on square footage and taxable value of the properties.
The push for a business improvement district in Uptown Butte is part of a larger effort outlined in the Uptown Master Plan adopted by the Council of Commissioners in 2022. Advocates believe that the enhancements funded by the district will pay off in the long run, attracting more visitors and patrons to the area.
Meetings will be held next week to inform business owners and the public about the benefits of a business improvement district and to address any questions or concerns. The meetings will be held at Action Inc. on Silver Street, with multiple sessions scheduled to accommodate different schedules.
