Business Improvement Districts, or “BIDs” are a defined area within which property owners pay an assessment to fund projects and services that directly benefit the district that are not covered by municipal services. Since the 1970s, well-maintained BIDs have been catalysts for urban revitalization and sustained economic growth.

What’s a BID video

Increased Property Values: Enhanced public spaces and better maintenance often lead to increased property values.

Attracting New Tenants and Customers: Improved aesthetics and safety can draw more businesses and visitors, boosting foot traffic and sales.

Community and Economic Development: A well-maintained and attractive district encourages investment and development, fostering a vibrant local economy.

Collaboration and Influence: As a property owner, you will have a say in the projects and services funded by the BID, ensuring that the initiatives align with your interests and needs.

Projects and services are determined by the property owners and can include:

• Enhanced street cleaning and maintenance

• Beautification efforts such as landscaping and public art

• Improved lighting and safety measures

• Marketing and promotional activities to attract visitors and businesses

• Special events and activities to foster a sense of community

• Advocate for the needs of businesses in the Uptown district

Uptown Butte is a place of history and possibilities. The historic uptown corridor has the potential to establish itself as a destination city, as well as to draw in new businesses and additional investment activity. One of the implementation initiatives of the Uptown Butte Master Plan, approved and adopted in the spring of 2022, is to establish a BID to elevate Uptown into a cleaner, safer, more accessible, and more vibrant destination. BIDs are common tools for community improvements and added services. Many Montana cities (Missoula, Kalispell, Helena, Great Falls, Billings, Bozeman, Livingston, Hamilton) have established BIDs that are engaged in place-making activities.

The BID is controlled and financed by property owners of the district and also oversees management and implementation of the BID operating plan and budget. The board makes personnel, program, ad budget decisions.

Unlike the Chamber of Commerce or other associations, a BID is a legal mechanism for property owners to collectively fun supplemental projects and services like snow removal, lighting, landscaping and beautification, trash pickup, etc. It provides a dedicated revenue stream to execute the improvements approved by the board. While it cannot replace currently funded services, it can expand or enhance them.