Montana Economic Development

People in Red Lodge have tried to get the ball rolling on economic development before, but this time it’s different.

let’s bask in the limelight a bit and acknowledge that, whether it’s one of the best or simply a pretty good place to do business, Missoula is moving things in the right direction.

"This is not about bad doctors or bad workers or bad administrators," she said. "Every system is designed to get the results it gets. If we don’t stop and look at a system and figure out where is the ambiguity and the redundancy, all the consultants in the world can’t fix it."

"From my perspective," said Muse, "this is a good event to host at Adams Center. It provides an opportunity to have high school kids visit UM. And it’s an opportunity for UM to do something good for the hotels and restaurants in town – something that’s good for the local economy. But by no means is this a source of revenue for me. It took a huge effort by our staff and the Athletic Department staff. I don’t think they consider it an inconvenience, but something worth doing. So we’re willing to make an extra effort on this. I hope the community recognizes that effort."

Now voters have the power to decide whether they want to keep spending the money on economic development for the next four years or receive a slightly lower tax bill. In refusing the 1.16 mill, voters would shave less than $3 off the tax bill for a $100,000 home.

In a meeting at the Capitol, the unusual gathering began a process of trying to come up with specific steps the campuses can take to make existing businesses more successful, attract new business and create more jobs with better pay.

"I still believe John (Kramer) is going to be a great asset to Great Falls and everybody should believe in what he’s doing," McFadden said.

Emil Erhardt of Citizens Development Corp. in Billings received the gavel from outgoing President Doug Anderson of Missoula during the Montana Ambassadors annual meeting held February 12&13 at Fairmont Hot Springs. Liz Harris of Jobs…

A rural development specialist with more than 20 years experience helping communities throughout the West believes Butte’s future will be bright if it can continue promoting and improving its unique Uptown district. "Butte is now one of America’s best kept secrets, but judging from the enthusiasm in this room, it’s not going to be a secret for long,"

Julie Foster said Thursday a lot of people want to come back to Montana, and a lot of communities want them to come back.

Erickson said he hopes communities continue to join the site, and that they continually update their information once they do. He said towns could list what commercial space they have available, what they need for workers, be it plumbers, electricians, pharmacists or fifth-grade teachers, and what amenities communities have to offer to people.

"You could talk about the quality of the schools, the quality of life in the community. If you have an asset you are particularly proud of, you can point that out," he said.