On the agenda: Great Falls meeting — License plate reader (Mar 17)

Work Session Meeting Agenda
2 Park Drive South, Great Falls, MT
Gibson Room, Civic Center
March 17, 2026
5:30 PM
The agenda packet material is available on the City’s website: https://greatfallsmt.gov/AgendaCenter.
The Public may view and listen to the meeting on government access channel City-190, cable channel
190; or online at https://greatfallsmt.gov/344/Live-Meetings.
Public participation is welcome in the following ways:
• Attend in person.
• Provide public comments in writing by 12:00 PM the day of the meeting: Mail to City Clerk, PO Box
5021, Great Falls, MT 59403, or via email to: [email protected]. Include the agenda
item or agenda item number in the subject line, and include the name of the commenter and either an
address or whether the commenter is a city resident. Written communication received by that time
will be shared with the City Commission and appropriate City staff for consideration during the agenda
item, and, will be so noted in the official record of the meeting.
CALL TO ORDER
PUBLIC COMMENT
(Public comment on agenda items or any matter that is within the jurisdiction of the City Commission.
Please keep your remarks to a maximum of five (5) minutes. Speak into the microphone, and state your
name and either your address or whether you are a city resident for the record.)
WORK SESSION ITEMS
1.

Strategic Capital Investment Reserve (SCIR) Program for Public Water, Sewer and Stormwater
Infrastructure - Presented by Mark Juras. (estimated 30 minutes)

2.

Recommendations from the Great Falls Parking Summit - Presented by Jeremy Jones (estimated
30 minutes)

DISCUSSION POTENTIAL UPCOMING WORK SESSION TOPICS
ADJOURNMENT
UPCOMING MEETING SCHEDULE
City Commission Work Session - Tuesday April 7, 2026 5:30 p.m.
City Commission Meeting - Tuesday April 7, 2026 7:00 p.m.

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Agenda #1.

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STRATEGIC CAPITAL INVESTMENT
RESERVE (SCIR) FOR PUBLIC WATER,
SEWER, AND STORMWATER
INFRASTRUCTURE
MARCH 17, 2026

INTRODUCTION

Main Objectives of SCIR Program
• Improve performance and resilience of existing utility system
• Business friendly initiative to support community benefit via
development
• Ensure transparency via Commission approved funding
SCIR Work Session Objectives
• Update Commission
• Tee up for April 7 Commission approval via Resolution
RATE PAYERS MUST BENEFIT
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Agenda #1.

2026 UTILITY RATES MONTANA
2026 Water & Sewer Residential Rates
Butte

Kalispell

Bozeman

Missoula

Helena

$112.40

Butte

$100.06

Kalispell

$98.16

Bozeman

$68.76

Missoula

$65.14

Helena

$64.66

Great Falls

$64.25

Billings

Great Falls

Billings
-$10.00

$10.00

$30.00

$50.00

$70.00

Residential Water

$90.00

$110.00

$130.00

$150.00

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Residential Sewer

INTRODUCTION

June 3rd, 2025: RES 10574 adopted
• Goal: establish $2m/yr reserve in each utility fund
(water, sewer, storm)
• Revenue of ~$6m total in SCIR per year
• Assist City and Developers with meeting public
infrastructure needs
• Investment to both:
• Improve existing infrastructure
• Support development
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WATER FUND SCIR CARRYOVER ILLUSTRATION

FY27 ~$21M FROM RATES
*Budget for FY27:
$19M to CIP & Operations
$2M to SCIR

FY28 ~$21M FROM RATES
$
$
$

$
$
$
FY27
POT

*Budget for FY28:
~$19M to CIP & Operations
$2M to SCIR

Remaining FY27 Funds
$
$
$

CIP Funds Spent $17M
SCIR Funds Spent $0.7M
SCIR Fund Obligated $1.0M

FY28
POT

*FY budgets based on no rate increases with the same usage.

CIP Budget ~$21M ($19M + $2M)
SCIR Budget $2.3M ($2M + $.3M)
SCIR Obligated $1.0M
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POLICY SUMMARY

Review and Scoring Criteria
• Benefit to existing public infrastructure (rate payer)
• Enablement of future development
• Economic Impact
• Tax base, jobs, infrastructure, lifecycle analysis
• Growth Policy alignment, infill, high-density or mixed use
• Project readiness, leveraging non-city funds, developer experience
• Geographic distribution across Neighborhood Council districts,
• New vs. Frequent users
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POLICY SUMMARY

Appeals
• Applicants may appeal to City Commission within 30 days
• Commission decisions are final
Policy Review
• Pilot Period: First year for refinement and feedback
• Periodic Reviews: Bi-annual reports during budget cycles
• Adjustments: Post pilot policy changes require Commission
approval
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Proposed SCIR Timeline

Construction & Disbursements TBD

= Critical Decisions or Announcements

Jan 19 2027 Round 2 COMM Mtg SCIR Approvals

COMM = City Commission

Present Second Round SCIR Recommendations at mid-cycle budget review

~$2m Available per
Round 1 July 7 COMM Mtg SCIR Approvals
Utility
Present First Round SCIR Recommendations at Budget Review

October 15 – Applications
Due

Staff Review of Applications
April 7 COMM Mtg Adopt Policy

Execute SCIR Agreements

March 6 COMM check in Memo or March 17 Work Session

TODAY
Final Draft Documents
Work Session
COMM Approves Intent

Finalize Documents

April 15 – Applications Due
End Public Comment Period
Town Hall
Developer Roundtable
Begin Public Comment Period

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PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD SUMMARY

#1 Topic – Can the City apply for SCIR?
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•
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If City applies, must have a formal letter of endorsement from a Developer
City not eligible for <$250k fund
Other safeguards

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PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD SUMMARY

#2 Topic – Can SCIR infrastructure benefit only a single development, and how
is that defined?
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Eligibility criteria – SCIR may not pay for on-site utilities developer would normally be
responsible for
On-site eligible improvements include those which provide regional benefit
as scored on the rubric

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PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD SUMMARY

Developer “Roundtable” February 12, 2026
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Non-city match funds are eligible for latecomer’s fees
City not eligible for <$250k pot
Increase points for “Leveraging of Non-City Funds” in rubric
Clarifying eligibility criteria

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PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD SUMMARY

Open House February 25, 2026
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Debt service clarification
Infrastructure lifecycle cost clarifications
Phased SCIR awards are not eligible
Contingencies and change orders clarified
Partial awards are not allowed

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PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD SUMMARY

Written Comments
•
•

Received four written comments in total - to be included in April 7
Commission Meeting Packet
All written comments were considered in SCIR policy revisions

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CONCLUSION

Key Reminders:
•
•
•

Pilot, we can change it
Adoption via Resolution on April 7th
First round of applications due April 15th

The SCIR Working Group thanks you!

Questions & Discussion
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FINAL DRAFT SCIR POLICY SUMMARY
FOR CITY OF GREAT FALLS
PILOT OF STRATEGIC CAPITAL INVESTMENT RESERVE (SCIR) PROGRAM

I. INTRODUCTION
The Strategic Capital Investment Reserve (SCIR) program is undergoing a Pilot period
as it is implemented to ensure it functions as intended. The SCIR is a funding
mechanism established by the City of Great Falls to expand and improve system-wide
public water, sewer, and stormwater utility infrastructure and support strategic
development that aligns with adopted community plans. The SCIR is funded through a
dedicated portion of utility rates and is administered by the Strategic Development
Officer (SDO) in coordination with Planning & Community Development, Public Works,
and Finance Departments.
Important: SCIR funding must be approved by the City Commission prior to
solicitation of bids for Public Works infrastructure or a re-bid is required.
Retroactive reimbursements are not permitted. Additionally, land use entitlement
approvals must be approved by the City Commission prior to or concurrent with
SCIR awards. Necessary land use entitlement approvals may include, but are not
limited to, annexation, zoning, and preliminary plat.

II. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
The SCIR Program is intended to:

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1. Improve performance and resiliency of existing City public water, sewer, and
stormwater utility systems while supporting development that aligns with adopted
plans.
2. Support broad community benefit and long-term fiscal responsibility.
3. Ensure transparency through City Commission approved funding decisions.

III. FUNDING STRUCTURE
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Match Commitments: Match commitments are not required but may increase
score of proposal.

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Maximum Award: Up to $1.75 million per year per utility (water, sewer, or storm)
per project. Amounts will be based on utility revenues and availability. SCIR may
not be used for debt service or future phases of projects.

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Awards: The City Commission shall vote to award all SCIR funding proposals
in accordance with the timelines and procedures indicated herein.

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Administrative Awards: Small proposals less than $250,000 per utility per
year per project may be recommended for Commission award based on
administrative approval on a first come first serve basis. This small project
reserve will maintain an estimated maximum amount of $250,000 per utility per
year based on utility revenues. The fiscal year starts on July 1 and ends on June
30. The City Public Works Department shall not be eligible for administrative
SCIR award recommendations.



Partial Awards: SCIR applications may not be partially awarded. They are
either awarded, or not awarded, by the Commission.

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Disbursement of SCIR funds: The SCIR comes as a reimbursement issued
after infrastructure completion, acceptance, and ownership transfer to Public
Works.

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Fiscal Purchasing Policy: Expenditure of SCIR funds shall meet city financial
policy requirements including, but not limited to, competitive public bidding
process, Montana prevailing wage rates, certified payroll, and other items as
required by MCA or the City Finance Department.

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Latecomer’s Fees: Use of SCIR for latecomer’s fees is not allowed. Non-city
match funds are eligible for latecomer’s fees.

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Maximum Reserve Amount: The SCIR shall accrue a maximum of 6 million of
non-obligated funds per each utility. Any non-obligated accruals over $6 million
may be re-invested in the capital improvements program or be applied to
necessary rate increases for normal utility operations.



Other City Funding Sources: Other city funds, such as TIF funding, may be
used in conjunction with SCIR funds; however, this may impact scoring.



Funding Timeline: Successful applicants shall have two (2) years from
Commission Approval to accomplish substantial commencement of work and
three (3) years to achieve substantial completion of the public infrastructure or
funds are forfeited. SCIR funds are not eligible for extensions.

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Annual Reports: SCIR funding shall be incorporated into the City’s annual
budget report and semi-annual budget update.

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Debt service: Use of SCIR for debt service will not be permitted. That is, the
SCIR may not be borrowed against or bonded upon like TIF funds.



Public Competitive Bidding: Failure to receive approval of a completed SCIR
application before soliciting bids for Public Works infrastructure negates eligibility
for SCIR assistance or a re-bid is required.

IV. ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES
SCIR funds may be used for projects that both provide a benefit to the existing City
public infrastructure system and enable future development:


Public Water Infrastructure: Oversizing/extending mains, pump stations,
storage towers, treatment plant upgrades, and associated incidental surface
improvements.



Public Sewer Infrastructure: Oversizing/extending mains, lift stations,
wastewater treatment improvements, and associated incidental surface
improvements.



Public Stormwater Infrastructure: Regional detention ponds,
oversizing/extending storm mains, lift stations, and associated incidental surface
improvements.



Other Costs: Other costs associated with public water, sewer, or stormwater
infrastructure are eligible including engineering design, permitting costs,
easement acquisition costs, inspection, mobilization, bonding, and other eligible
costs as approved by the SDO.

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Exclusions: Infrastructure operation and maintenance costs, service lines, fire
service lines, contingencies, debt service, other private or enterprise utilities such
as gas, power, or communication lines, road surface improvements including
sidewalks, landscaping, change orders.

Ineligible Uses Include:


Non-development related capital improvements projects.



Infrastructure benefiting only a single development. That is, on-site utility mains
and appurtenances which the developer would normally be responsible for
paying for, even if dedicated in a future right of way within the property, are not
eligible. This is not intended to exclude regional facilities which benefit multiple
users from being on the site of the development, such as regional lift stations or
ponds.



Roadway infrastructure including, asphalt, curbing, valley gutters, and sidewalks.



Debt service or unrelated capital costs.



Funding of public infrastructure outside of the incorporated City limits.

V. APPLICATION PROCESS
1. Eligible Applicants: Developers, non-governmental organizations, and the City
Public Works Department. One application per entity per application cycle. If
projects are associated with new development that require land use entitlement,
application requests must be concurrent with the land use entitlement
applications or after the entitlement has been approved. Failure to receive
approval of a completed application before soliciting competitive bids for
Public Works infrastructure negates the applicants eligibility for SCIR
assistance or a re-bid is required.


If the City is the applicant, the application must include a formal letter of
endorsement signed by a separate developer.

2. Initial Contact: Contact the Planning & Community Development Department to
discuss project eligibility for SCIR funding.
3. Pre-Application Meeting: After initial contact, before the preparation of the
application, a pre-application meeting will be held with the SDO, in coordination
with the Planning & Community Development, Public Works, and Finance
Departments. Pre-application meetings may be held in conjunction with land use
entitlement meetings.
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4. Application Preparation and Submission: Prepare and submit a complete
SCIR application with supporting documentation attached. The applicant shall
use the rubric to self-score the proposal. All SCIR applications shall be
submitted concurrently with a land use entitlement application or after a
previously approved land use entitlement application.
5. Application Deadlines: Applications shall be submitted in accordance with the
following:


SCIR Requests under $250,000 per year per utility fund: Applications
may be submitted year-round and may be recommended for award on a
first come, first served basis until the yearly cap is met. The fiscal year
starts on July 1 and ends on June 30 and the estimated cap is $250,000
per utility per year depending on utility revenues. Staff shall determine if
the project is eligible. Requires commission award via a public hearing.



SCIR Requests over $250,000 per year per utility fund: Staff will
review, rank, and make recommendation for Commission Approvals on a
bi-annual basis.
1. Bi-Annual Application Deadlines: April 15, October 15
2. Estimated timeframe of award: July or January in conjunction with
budget cycle approvals, requires commission award via a public
hearing.

6. Staff Review: Applications will be reviewed by City staff and the SDO and
scored based on the adopted policy and rubric. Staff may request additional
information, request modified application documents, and may provide written
comments.
7. Draft SCIR Agreement: Pending successful review, Staff will prepare a SCIR
agreement in conjunction with the applicant which will accompany the application
and recommendation of award.
8. Recommendation: Staff will rank applications based on the adopted policy and
rubric and prepare a recommendation for the City Commission.
9. Commission Approval: The SDO will present the application to the City
Commission. The City Commission must vote to approve funded applications.
10. Execute SCIR Agreement: Awarded projects must fully execute the SCIR
Agreement defining terms, obligations, timelines, and other items as deemed
necessary.
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VI. REVIEW CRITERIA
Applications will be ranked and scored using the ranking matrix and the criteria below.
See the application and scoring rubric for more information.


Benefit to Existing System and Infrastructure



Enablement of Future Development and Growth



Economic Impact (Tax Base, Jobs, and Infrastructure Lifecycle Analysis)



High Density or Mixed-Use Housing



Infill Development and Growth Policy Plan Alignment



Project Readiness & Timeline



Leveraging of Non-City Funds

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Developer’s Experience

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SCIR Geographic Distribution by Neighborhood Council District

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New vs. Frequent Users

VII. GOVERNANCE & ADMINISTRATION


Strategic Development Officer (SDO): The SDO is the primary position
charged with SCIR application review, applicant coordination, and preparing
recommendation for the Commission.



Working Group: The working group is the primary administrative advisory body
of the SCIR. In absence of the SDO, the working group shall act as the SDO.
The working group consists of the Public Works Director, City Engineer,
Development Review Coordinator, Planning and Community Development
Director & Deputy Director, Finance Director, and the City Attorney.



City Commission: The City Commission acts as the primary governing body
and votes to award or not award all eligible SCIR proposals.

VIII. POLICY REVIEW


Pilot Period Principle: The first year or more of implementation of the SCIR
program is intended to be considered a pilot period. It is anticipated that regular

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reviews and assessments during the pilot period will be conducted to work
through issues and recommend adjustments to the process as needed.


Periodic Reviews: Bi-annual SCIR reports and reviews will be conducted
concurrent with City budget approval and mid-fiscal year budget review.



Financial Accruals: If funds continue to accumulate in the SCIR without
expenditure or obligation, the working group may recommend policy changes.



Legal Review and Compliance: Legal reviews may occur on an as needed
basis and may include internal legal review and external legal counsel to review
and advise changes.



Changes: During the pilot period, language change requests to any component
of the SCIR policy or application documents may be submitted to City staff on an
as needed basis. All change requests must be recommended by City staff and
approved by the City Commission. After the pilot period, it is intended to
separate and define substantial changes requiring commission approval versus
minor administrative changes which do not require commission approval.

IX. APPEALS


Process: If an individual is aggrieved by a decision of staff or wishes to appeal
the terms of the SCIR program, the applicant may appeal to the City Commission
within thirty (30) calendar days. All Commission decisions are final.

X. GLOSSARY OF TERMS


Adopted Plans - Official planning documents approved by the City of Great
Falls, such as the Growth Policy, Neighborhood Plans, and Utility Master Plans.
SCIR projects must align with these plans to be considered eligible and score
favorably.
 Administrative Award - A SCIR funding mechanism for small-scale
infrastructure projects (less than $250,000 per utility per year) that may be
recommended for Commission approval administratively on a first-come, firstserved basis.
 Annexed Land - Land that has been formally incorporated into the City of Great
Falls through annexation. SCIR funds may only be used for infrastructure
improvements within annexed areas.
 Benefit to Existing System and Infrastructure - A scoring criterion evaluating
how a proposed project improves the performance, capacity, or resiliency of
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existing public utility systems. Examples include looping water mains, relieving
bottlenecks, or upgrading aging infrastructure.
Change Order – A formal, written amendment to an existing construction
contract that modifies the original scope of work, budget, or schedule. Change
Orders which would increase SCIR expenditures are not eligible for SCIR award.
Critical Facilities - Essential public services such as hospitals, schools, fire
stations, and emergency response centers. Projects that benefit these facilities
may receive higher SCIR scores due to their community importance.
Commission Approval - Formal authorization by the City Commission required
for all SCIR funding awards, major policy changes, and entitlement approvals.
Must be obtained before soliciting bids or a re-bid is required.
Contingencies – A reserve of money side to cover possible unforeseen future
expenses, typically included in an estimate as a line item. Contingencies are not
eligible for SCIR award.
Developable Land - Land that is suitable and available for future development,
typically within the City’s designated growth areas and served or serviceable by
public infrastructure.
Development - The process of constructing new buildings or infrastructure, or
redeveloping existing properties, typically involving land use approvals, utility
connections, and compliance with City plans.
Development Feasibility - A measure of whether a proposed development is
financially and practically viable. In the SCIR context, feasibility is determined by
the applicant’s demonstration of market demand, supported by a detailed pro
forma, financing commitments, and alignment with City plans. Strong feasibility
indicates that the project is likely to proceed successfully and deliver intended
public benefits.
Developer’s Experience – A qualitative assessment of the applicant’s past
performance on similar infrastructure or development projects. Thresholds:


High: Multiple successful projects with timely delivery and compliance.



Medium: Some relevant experience with moderate success.



Low: Limited or no prior experience with comparable projects.

Equivalent Dwelling Unit (EDU) - A standardized metric used to quantify the
demand a single-family residence places on public utility systems (water, sewer,
stormwater). EDUs allow the City to compare infrastructure impacts across
different types of development and are used in SCIR scoring to assess system
benefit and capacity needs.

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Eligible Applicants - Entities permitted to apply for SCIR funding, including
private developers, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the City Public
Works Department. Each entity may submit one application per funding cycle.
Enablement of Future Development and Growth - A scoring criterion
assessing how a project unlocks new development potential, such as increasing
utility capacity to serve additional EDUs or opening access to developable land.
Extension of Services Plan - A City Planning document outlining how City
services (water, sewer, and stormwater) will be extended to support future
growth. SCIR projects should align with this plan.
Fiscal Purchasing Policy - City of Great Falls financial policies governing the
use of public funds, including competitive bidding, prevailing wage compliance,
and certified payroll. SCIR expenditures must adhere to these policies.
Future Phases of Projects – SCIR funds may not be used to fund future phases
of projects. SCIR must include an accompanying land use entitlement approval
for eligibility.
Growth Policy Plan Alignment - A measure of how well a proposed project
supports the City’s long-range planning goals, including land use, housing, and
infrastructure priorities. Projects aligned with the Growth Policy score higher.
High Density or Mixed Use Housing - Residential development that includes
multi-family units (e.g., apartments, townhomes) or combines residential with
commercial uses. SCIR scoring favors projects that promote compact, efficient
land use.
Incorporated Land - Land located within the official boundaries of the City of
Great Falls. Only incorporated land is eligible for SCIR-funded infrastructure
improvements.
Infill Development – Development or redevelopment within the incorporated
City limits that is served by existing public infrastructure (water, sanitary sewer,
stormwater, and roadway access), aligns with the City’s Growth Policy and land
use plans, and promotes efficient land use by utilizing vacant or underused
parcels.
Infrastructure completion and acceptance - The point at which public
infrastructure funded by SCIR is fully constructed, inspected, and formally
accepted by the City’s Public Works Department.
Infrastructure lifecycle analysis - An evaluation of the maintenance, operation,
and replacement costs compared to revenues over the useful life of the
infrastructure. Required for SCIR scoring. This is not intended to be a
comparison of one material over another for infrastructure purposes, rather an
economic analysis of the infrastructure using the City required materials.

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Land Use Application - A formal request submitted to the City for approval of
zoning, annexation, subdivision, or other development-related actions. Must
accompany or precede SCIR applications.
Land Use Approval - Official authorization granted by the City Commission or
Planning Department for land use changes. Required before or concurrently with
SCIR fund awards.
Land Use Entitlement - The legal approval granted by the City for a specific use
of land, including annexation, zoning, and subdivision. Entitlement is a
prerequisite for SCIR funding and must be secured before or concurrently with
SCIR application submission.
Latecomer’s Fee - A reimbursement mechanism allowing initial infrastructure
investors to recover costs from future users. SCIR funded infrastructure is not
eligible for latecomer’s fees.
Long-term fiscal responsibility - A guiding principle of the SCIR program that
ensures infrastructure investments are financially sustainable over time. This
includes minimizing future maintenance costs, maximizing public benefit, and
aligning with lifecycle analysis outcomes.
Match Funds - The portion of project costs contributed by the applicant or other
non-City funds. SCIR scoring favors projects with higher match ratios.
New vs. Frequent Users - A scoring metric that prioritizes applicants who have
not received SCIR funding in the past five years. Frequent users (those with one
or more awards in that period) may receive lower scores to promote access.
Non-City Funds - Any financial contributions toward SCIR eligible infrastructure
that do not originate from City sources. These may include private investment,
state or federal grants, or other public-private partnerships.
Owner Transfer - The formal handoff of completed public infrastructure from the
applicant to the City of Great Falls. SCIR reimbursement is contingent upon this
transfer and acceptance by Public Works.
Pilot Period - The initial implementation phase of the SCIR program, during
which policies, procedures, and scoring criteria may be refined based on
feedback and performance. Intended to ensure the program functions as
intended before full adoption.
Project Readiness - A composite measure of how prepared a project is to begin
construction. Includes entitlement approvals, design completion, and anticipated
construction timeline. Projects with higher readiness may receive higher scores.
Public Infrastructure – City owned utility systems such as water, sewer, and
stormwater facilities. SCIR funds may only be used for public infrastructure that is
transferred to City ownership upon completion.

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SCIR (Strategic Capital Investment Reserve) - A City of Great Falls funding
mechanism supported by utility rates, designed to enable development and
improve existing public utility infrastructure in alignment with adopted plans.
SCIR Agreement - A formal Agreement between the City and the applicant
outlining the scope of work, reimbursement terms, timelines, and other
obligations related to SCIR funded infrastructure.
SCIR Geographic Distribution by Neighborhood Council District - A scoring
factor that promotes allocation of SCIR funds across the City’s Neighborhood
Council districts. Projects in underrepresented districts may receive higher
scores.
Strategic Development Officer (SDO) – The City staff member responsible for
administering the SCIR program, coordinating application reviews, and making
funding recommendations. In the absence of an SDO, the designated working
group assumes these duties.
Substantial Commencement of Work - The point at which physical construction
of SCIR-funded infrastructure must begin to maintain eligibility. Defined by the
City of Great Falls as occurring within two years of City Commission approval.
Failure to meet this milestone may result in forfeiture of SCIR funding.
Substantial Completion - The point at which SCIR-funded infrastructure is fully
constructed and ready for use, pending final inspection and acceptance by the
City. Must occur within three years of Commission award. Failure to meet this
milestone may result in forfeiture of SCIR funding.
TIF (Tax Increment Financing) - A public financing tool that uses future
increases in property tax revenue within a designated area to fund current
infrastructure improvements. TIF may be used alongside SCIR but may affect
scoring.
Utility - A public service system, such as water, sewer, or stormwater, owned and
operated by the City of Great Falls. SCIR funds are allocated by utility type and
capped annually.
Working Group - An administrative advisory body that supports SCIR program
implementation. Includes representatives from Public Works, Planning &
Community Development, Finance, Legal, and other relevant departments. Acts
in place of the SDO when necessary.

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FINAL DRAFT APPLICATION & SCORING
RUBRIC
FOR CITY OF GREAT FALLS
STRATEGIC CAPITAL INVESTMENT RESERVE (SCIR)
IMPORTANT
This application initiates a request for funding through the Strategic Capital Investment
Reserve (SCIR) program, a public infrastructure investment initiative administered by
the City of Great Falls to support public infrastructure utility improvements and strategic
development aligned with adopted community plans. The Strategic Development Officer
(SDO), in coordination with the Planning & Community Development, Public Works, and
Finance Departments, is charged with processing all applications and accomplishing the
policy established with the creation of the SCIR program.
Projects requesting SCIR financial assistance will be evaluated by City staff and
approved by the City Commission. Designated City Staff will prepare a recommendation
to the City Commission based on grading criteria as found within the SCIR policy.
Please review the SCIR Policy Summary and this information carefully before
submitting an application.
Failure to receive approval of a completed application before soliciting bids for
public works infrastructure negates the Applicant’s eligibility for SCIR assistance
or require a re-bid. Retroactive reimbursements are not an eligible use of the
SCIR.
Applicant must have obtained prior land use entitlement approvals or obtain
concurrent land use entitlement approvals to be eligible for SCIR awards. Failure
to obtain land use entitlement approvals negates the Applicant’s eligibility for
SCIR assistance.
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APPLICANT INFORMATION
1. Date Submitted:
2. Applicant Information (whomever is filling out and completing this application):
a. Name:
___________________________________________________________
__
b. Company:
c. Address:
_____________________________________________________
d. Telephone: __________________________________________________
e. Email:
_______________________________________________________

DEVELOPMENT INFORMATION
1. Development Project Information
a. Name:
b. Property Address:
c. Legal Description of Property:

2. Owner/Developer Information (if different from applicant information above):
a. Name:
___________________________________________________________
_____
b. Company:
___________________________________________________________
__
c. Address:
___________________________________________________________
___
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d. Telephone:
___________________________________________________________
_
e. Email:
___________________________________________________________
___
3. Developer Type: ☐ Developer ☐ Non-Governmental Organization ☐ City Public
Works Department ☐
Other____________________________________________________
4. Engineering Firm Information (if different from applicant information above):
a. Name:
___________________________________________________________
_____
b. Company:
___________________________________________________________
__
c. Address:
___________________________________________________________
___
d. Telephone:
___________________________________________________________
_
e. Email:
___________________________________________________________
___
5. Please Attach a written narrative description of the total Project Development:
☐ Yes, I have Attached. Initials:

SCIR FUNDED PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE AND
SCHEDULING
1. SCIR Utility System(s) Impacted, Check Applicable Boxes:
☐ Water ☐ Sewer ☐ Stormwater

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1. Please attach a written narrative description of the proposed SCIR funded public
infrastructure: ☐ Yes, I have Attached. Initials:
2. Please attach a site plan or overall utility plan showing the proposed SCIR
funded public infrastructure: ☐ Yes, I have Attached. Initials:
3. Please attach a detailed engineer’s estimate (itemized schedule of values) for all
proposed SCIR Infrastructure: ☐ Yes, I have Attached. Initials:
4. Please summarize all requested SCIR and non-city fund match amounts below:
a. Requested SCIR amount for Water Infrastructure $__________
b. Non-City fund match of SCIR Water Infrastructure $__________
c. Requested SCIR amount for Sanitary Sewer Infrastructure $__________
d. Non-City fund match of SCIR Sanitary Sewer Infrastructure $__________
e. Requested SCIR amount for Stormwater Infrastructure $__________
f. Non-City fund match of SCIR Stormwater Infrastructure $__________
g. Other Requested SCIR amounts for Eligible Costs (See Policy):
$__________
h. Non-City fund match Other SCIR Eligible Costs (See Policy) $__________
5. Please indicate whether any other sources of City funds are proposed to fund the
SCIR Eligible Public Infrastructure such as TIF funds: __________________
____________
__________________
__________________
____________
____________
____________
____________
____________
___________________
6. Anticipated Month and Year of SCIR Infrastructure Substantial Commencement
of Work: __________________
7. Anticipated Month and Year of SCIR Infrastructure Substantial Completion:
__________________
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8. Applicant acknowledgment that public infrastructure funded by SCIR funds is not
eligible for future latecomer’s fees. Non-City match funds are eligible for future
latecomer’s fees:
☐ Yes, I acknowledge. Initials:
9. Applicant acknowledgement that public infrastructure funded by SCIR must be
spent in accordance with the City’s financial policies including Montana
Prevailing Wage Rates and competitive bidding:
☐ Yes, I acknowledge. Initials:
10. Applicant acknowledgement that substantial commencement of SCIR
infrastructure must begin within 2 years of Commission award or the remaining
balance is forfeited:
☐ Yes, I acknowledge. Initials:
11. Applicant acknowledgement that all proposed SCIR infrastructure must be
substantially completed and transferred to the City for ownership within 3 years
of Commission award or the remaining balance is forfeited:
☐ Yes, I acknowledge. Initials:

SCORING CRITERIA
A. Benefit to Existing System & Infrastructure:
a. Number of Existing EDU’s Benefitted:
b. Acres of Existing Incorporated Land Benefitted:
c. Existing Critical Facilities Benefitted:
B. Enablement of Future Development & Growth:
a. Number of new EDU’s Unlocked:
b. Acres of Developable Land Unlocked:
C. Economic Impact (Tax Base, Jobs, and Infrastructure Lifecycle Analysis):
a. $ Taxable Value Added:
b. New Permanent Jobs Added:
c. Estimated Infrastructure Payback Period: TO BE COMPETED BY CITY
STAFF
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D. High Density or Mixed Use Housing:
a. Units/net acre:
b. Contains Mixed Residential Uses: ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ Other
c. Contains Commercial Uses: ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ Other
E. Infill Development and Growth Policy Plan Alignment:
a. Infill or Redevelopment Project: ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ Other
b. Project Located in Growth Policy Area: ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ Other
F. Project Readiness & Timeline:
a. Annexation Approved or Existing: ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ N/A ☐ Concurrent
b. Zoning Entitlement Approved: ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ N/A ☐ Concurrent
c. Preliminary Plat Approved: ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ N/A ☐ Concurrent
d. Improvements Agreement Approved: ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ N/A ☐ Concurrent
e. Infrastructure Drawings Approved: ☐ Yes ☐ No ☐ N/A ☐ Concurrent
f. Infrastructure Completion Within: ☐ 0-12 Months ☐ 13-24 Months ☐ ≥ 25
months
G. Leveraging of Non-City Funds:
a. % Match of SCIR Funds with Non-City Funds:
H. Developer’s Experience:
a. Developer’s Experience per Glossary of Terms: ☐ High ☐ Medium ☐ Low
I. SCIR Geographic Distribution by Neighborhood Council (NC) District:
a. Number of SCIR Projects in same NC in the last 5 years (City Staff to
Determine or Verify):
J. New vs. Frequent Users:
a. Number of Owner’s Successful SCIR Project Awards in the last 5 years
(City Staff to Determine or Verify):

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SELF SCORING
1. Applicant has self completed the scoring rubric where possible and included it
with the application:
☐ Yes, I acknowledge. Initials:

APPLICANT CERTIFICATION
I,
_________________________________________________________________(pleas
e print applicant name), certify that the statements and estimates in this application, as
well as all attachments, are true and correct to the best of my knowledge.

Signature: ______________________________________________________
__________

Date:

Title: _______________________________

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SCIR Scoring Rubric – 100 Point
System
This rubric is designed to make scoring transparent and easy to follow. Applicants
provide data in the SCIR Application; they enter those inputs, and points are awarded
according to the thresholds below. Staff will verify every score, if staff has determined a
different score then reasoning will be provided to clarify the discrepancy. The point
system is used to prioritize and inform suitability of projects. The rubric does not directly
award projects. Staff will recommend denial, approval, and priority of approved
projects. Staff reserves the right to deny any project, regardless of the rubric score.

How to Use This Rubric
1. Review the SCIR Application and confirm all required data fields are complete.
2. For each criterion below, compare the applicant’s data to the thresholds provided.
3. Award the number of points based on the designated point allocation.
4. Record the total score out of 100.
5. Use the total score to place the project into one of four categories:
• 81-100 = Excellent
• 61-80 = Good
• 41-60 = Satisfactory
• 0-40 = Low Correlation
Criterion
A

Title
Benefit to Existing
System & Infrastructure

Points
Max 15

Point Allocation
• 15 pts = Benefits ≥500 EDUs of
existing users or ≥50 acres of
existing incorporated land or ≥2
critical existing facilities (schools,
hospitals, fire stations).
• Scale proportionally of whichever
is higher always rounding up (e.g.,
250 EDUs = 8 pts).
• 5 point minimum if project benefits
existing infrastructure system (e.g.
utility oversizing, filling gap, or
looping)

Score

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B

Enablement of Future
Development & Growth

Max 15

Score
C

Tax Base

Max 5

C

Jobs

Score
Max 5

C

Infrastructure Lifecycle
Analysis – City Staff will
Score

D

High Density or Mixed
Use Housing

E

Infill Development &
Growth Policy Plan
Alignment

F

Project Readiness &
Timeline

G

Score
Max 5

Score
Max 6

Score
Max 10

Score
Max 10

Leveraging of Non‑City
Funds

Score
Max 14

• 15 pts = Unlocks ≥500 new EDUs
or ≥20 acres of developable land.
• Scale proportionally of whichever
is higher always rounding up (e.g.,
250 EDUs = 8 pts).
• 5 pts = Adds ≥$20M taxable value
• Scale proportionally between these
levels. (e.g., $10M= 3 pts).
• 5 pts = 100 new permanent jobs
• Scale proportionally always
rounding up (e.g. 50 jobs is 3 points)
• 5 pts = infrastructure payback
period is half of the lifecycle.
• 3 pts = infrastructure lifecycle
analysis breaks even.
• 10 pts = 10 units/net acre or a mix
of residential and commercial uses
• 5 pts = 5 units/net acre or a mix of
residential uses
• Scale proportionally always
rounding up (e.g. 2 jobs is 3 points)
• 10 pts = Project located in
infill/redevelopment area designated
in Growth Policy.
• 5 pts = Project located in Growth
Policy area but not infill.
• 0 pts = Project outside growth
areas.
• Approvals: All secured=4,
Pending=2, None/concurrent=0.
• Design %: ≥90=4, 30–89=2,
<30=0.
• Infrastructure Completion within:
≤12 months=2, 13–24 months=1,
≥25 months=0.
• 10 pts = Applicant provides ≥67%
of total SCIR eligible infrastructure
cost with non-city funds.
• 8 pts = 50–66% match.
• 4 pts = 20–49% match.
• 1 pt = 10–19% match.
• 0 pts = <10% match.

Score

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H

Developer’s Experience

I

SCIR Geographic
Distribution by
Neighborhood Council
(NC) District

J

New vs. Frequent Users

Max 5

Score
Max 5

Score
Max 5

• 5 pts = High
• 3 pts = Medium
• 0 pts = Low
• 5pts = No SCIR projects in same
NC in last 5 years.
• 3 pt = One SCIR same NC in last 5
years.
• 0 pts = Two or more SCIR projects
same NC in last 5 years.
• 5 pts = Applicant has not received
SCIR funds in last 5 years.
• 3 pts = Applicant received one
SCIR award in last 5 years.
• 0 pts = Applicant received 2+ SCIR
awards in last 5 years.

Score

Total Score:

Maximum Points: 100

Example Projects by Score Category
The following examples illustrate how different types of projects would likely score under
the SCIR rubric. These are hypothetical scenarios designed to demonstrate the scoring
system in practice.

Example 1: Excellent (81-100 pts)
• Project: Regional water main looping that serves 600 existing EDUs, fixes low
pressure for a hospital and two schools, and opens 400 new EDUs of capacity.
• Housing Impact: Enables 350 new housing units across multiple subdivisions including
multi-use and high density.
• Economic Impact: Estimated $25M taxable value added; 120 jobs tied to new
industrial park, infrastructure lifecycle analysis is net positive.
• Readiness: All approvals in place, design 95% complete, reimbursement in 10 months.
• Match: 60% private contribution.
• Likely Score: 95/100 – Excellent.

Example 2: Good (61-80 pts)
• Project: Sewer trunk extension oversizing that serves 120 existing EDUs and enables
200 more.
• Housing Impact: Supports 150 housing units with some high density apartments.
• Economic Impact: $10M taxable value; 40 new jobs projected, infrastructure lifecycle
cost breaks even.
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• Readiness: Zoning approved, design 70% complete, reimbursement in 18 months.
• Match: 50% private contribution.
• Likely Score: 61/100 – Strong.

Example 3: Satisfactory (41-60 pts)
• Project: Stormwater detention pond serving 40 existing EDUs and unlocking 60 new
ones.
• Housing Impact: Supports 40 new single family housing units and 20 high density
units.
• Economic Impact: $4M taxable value; minimal job creation.
• Readiness: Preliminary plat submitted; design at 30%; reimbursement expected in 3
years.
• Match: 20% private contribution.
• Likely Score: 41/100 – Satisfactory.

Example 4: Low Correlation (0-40 pts)
• Project: Water main extension to serve one commercial parcel (30 EDUs) outside
designated growth area.
• Housing Impact: No housing enabled.
• Economic Impact: $2M taxable value; 10 jobs.
• Readiness: No approvals; design not started; reimbursement in 4 years.
• Match: 15% private contribution.
• Likely Score: 14/100 – Low Correlation.

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DRAFT 03/17/2026
STRATEGIC CAPITAL INVESTMENT RESERVE PROGRAM AGREEMENT
THIS STRATEGIC CAPITAL INVESTMENT RESERVE PROGRAM AGREEMENT
is dated as of [_________], 20[____] (this “Agreement”), between the CITY OF GREAT
FALLS, a municipal corporation of the State of Montana (the “City”), and
[________________________], a [_______________________] (the “Developer”).
W I T N E S S E T H:
WHEREAS, under the provisions of the Montana Code Annotated, Title 7, Chapter 13,
Part 43, as amended (the “Act”), the City has the power to establish, build, construct,
reconstruct, or extend its municipal water, sewer and stormwater utility systems and may operate
and maintain such systems for public use; and
WHEREAS, the City Commission of the City (the “Commission”), pursuant to the Act
and Resolution No. [ ], duly adopted on April [______], 2026, established its Strategic Capital
Investment Reserve (SCIR) Program (the “Program”) in order to provide funding for the
expansion and improvement of system-wide public water, sewer, and stormwater utility
infrastructure and to support strategic development that aligns with adopted community plans;
and
WHEREAS, Developer is developing [________] (the “Project”) as described on
Exhibit A hereto;
WHEREAS, Developer submitted an Application for City of Great Falls Strategic Capital
Investment Reserve dated [________], 20[___] (the “Application”) for funding pursuant to the
Program (“SCIR Funding”) with respect to certain qualified improvements associated with the
Project, as further described on Exhibit B hereto (the “System Improvements”); and
WHEREAS, on [________], 20[___], the City Council conducted a public hearing
regarding the Application and the System Improvements at which all persons, including the
Developer, were given an opportunity to be heard.
WHEREAS, the City has determined that the System Improvements are authorized by the
Act and the Program, and pursuant to Resolution No. [____], duly adopted on [________],
20[___] (the “Authorizing Resolution”), the City is authorized to enter into this Agreement
which sets forth the obligations and commitments of the City and the Developer with respect to
the System Improvements.
NOW THEREFORE, the City and the Developer, each in consideration of the
representations, covenants and agreements of the other, as set forth herein, mutually represent,
covenant and agree as follows:
Section 1. Definitions; Rules of Interpretation; Exhibits.

32

Agenda #1.

1.1.
Definitions. For all purposes of this Agreement, except as otherwise expressly
provided or unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the following terms have the meanings
assigned to them, respectively:
“Act” has the meaning given such term in the recitals.
“Agreement” means this Strategic Capital Investment Reserve Program Agreement,
including any amendment hereof or supplement hereto entered into in accordance with the
provisions hereof.
“Authorizing Resolution” has the meaning given such term in the recitals.
“City” means the City of Great Falls, Montana, or any successors to its functions under
this Agreement.
“Commission” has the meaning given such term in the recitals.
“Developer” has the meaning given such term in the preamble.
“Environmental Laws and Regulations” means and includes the Federal
Comprehensive Environmental Compensation Response and Liability Act as amended by the
Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986, 42 U.S.C. §§ 9601 et seq.; the Federal
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976, 42 U.S.C. §§ 6901 et seq.; the Clean Water
Act, 33 U.S.C. § 1321 et seq.; and the Clean Air Act, 42 U.S.C. §§ 7401 et seq., all as the same
may be from time to time amended, and any other federal, State, county, municipal, local or
other statute, code, law, ordinance, regulation, requirement or rule which may relate to or deal
with human health or the environment including without limitation all regulations promulgated
by a regulatory body pursuant to any such statute, code, law or ordinance.
“Indemnified Parties” has the meaning given such term in Section 6 hereof.
“Land” means the real property and interests in real property described in Exhibit A
hereto.
“Land Use Regulations” means all federal, State and local laws, rules, regulations,
ordinances and plans relating to or governing the development or use of the Land or the Project.
“Prevailing Wage Rates” has the meaning given such term in Section 3.3 hereof.
“Project” has the meaning given such term in the recitals.
“State” means the State of Montana.
“Substantial Commencement of Work” means the point at which physical construction
of SCIR funded infrastructure must begin to maintain eligibility. That is, construction of the
infrastructure has substantially begun via contractor mobilization to the site and the breaking of
ground has occurred for said infrastructure. Defined by the City of Great Falls as occurring

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Agenda #1.

within two years of City Commission approval. Failure to meet this milestone may result in
forfeiture of SCIR funding.

“Substantial Completion” means SCIR-funded infrastructure is fully constructed and
ready for use, pending final inspection and acceptance by the City. Substantial completion is
monumented via the owner transfer certificate which transfers ownership of the utility from the
Developer to the City. Must occur within three years of Commission award. Failure to meet this
milestone may result in forfeiture of SCIR funding.
“System” means the [water] [sewer] [stormwater] system of the City and all extensions,
improvements and betterments thereof heretofore or hereafter constructed and acquired,
including, without limitation, the System Project.
“System Improvements” means those improvements to the System described on Exhibit
B hereto.
“System Revenues” means all revenues and receipts from rates, fees, charges and rentals
imposed for the availability, benefit and use of the System, and from penalties and interest
thereon, and from any sales of property which is a part of the System and all income received
from the investment of such revenues and receipts.
1.2.

Rules of Interpretation.

(a)
The words “herein,” “hereof” and words of similar import, without reference to
any particular section or subdivision, refer to this Agreement as a whole rather than to any
particular section or subdivision hereof.
(b)
References herein to any particular section or subdivision hereof are to the section
or subdivision of this Agreement as originally executed unless otherwise indicated.
(c)
“Or” is not exclusive but is intended to contemplate or encompass one, more or
all of the alternatives conjoined.
1.3.
Exhibits. The following Exhibits are attached to and by reference made a part of
this Agreement:
Exhibit A—Legal Description of the Land
Exhibit B—System Improvements
Exhibit C—Project Costs
Exhibit D—Form of Developer Requisition
Section 2. Representations.
2.1.

Developer Representations. The Developer hereby represents as follows:
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34

Agenda #1.

(a)
The Developer is a [________________], duly formed, validly existing and in
good standing under the laws of the State and is duly qualified to do business in the State. The
Developer has the power to enter into this Agreement and by all necessary corporate action has
duly authorized the execution and delivery of this Agreement.
(b)
The representations and warranties of the Developer in the Application are true
and correct as of the date hereof, including with respect to the total investment to be made by the
Developer with respect to the Project and the System Improvements.
(c)
The Developer has good marketable title to the Land, free and clear of all liens,
encumbrances and defects except such as do not materially affect the value of the Land or
materially interfere with the use made and proposed to be made of the Land by the Developer.
(d)
The Developer estimates the total costs of the Project (including Land acquisition)
and the System Improvements is $[________] as described in Exhibit C hereto and the
Developer has the financial capability and/or financing commitments to complete the Project and
the System Improvements.
(e)
The Developer is not aware of any facts the existence of which would cause the
Land or the Developer to be in violation of any Environmental Laws and Regulations applicable
to the Land, the Project or the System Improvements. The Developer has not received from any
local, State or federal official any notice or communication indicating that the Land or the
activities of the Developer may be or will be in violation of any Environmental Laws and
Regulations applicable to the Project or the System Improvements.
(f)
Neither the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the consummation of the
transactions contemplated hereby, nor the fulfillment of or compliance with the terms and
conditions of this Agreement is prohibited or limited by, conflicts with or results in a breach of
the terms, conditions or provisions of the [certificate of formation or operating agreement]
[articles of incorporation or bylaws] of the Developer or any evidence of indebtedness,
agreement or instrument of whatever nature to which the Developer is now a party or by which it
is bound, or constitutes a default under any of the foregoing.
(g)
There is no action, suit, investigation or proceeding now pending or, to the
knowledge of the Developer, threatened against or affecting the Developer or its business,
operations, properties or condition (financial or otherwise) before or by any governmental
department, commission, board, authority or agency, or any court, arbitrator, mediator or grand
jury, that could, individually or in the aggregate, materially and adversely affect the ability of the
Developer to complete the Project or the System Improvements.
Section 3. Developer’s Undertakings.
3.1.
Construction of Project and System Improvements. The Developer hereby agrees
and commits to the City that it will diligently prosecute to completion the construction of the
Project and the System Improvements in accordance with this Agreement, the site plan submitted
to the City and all applicable federal, State and local laws, rules, regulations and ordinances
relating to or governing the development or use of the Project and the System Improvements,
including applicable Land Use Regulations and Environmental Laws and Regulations. The
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Agenda #1.

Developer agrees and commits to the City that construction of the Project and the System
Improvements shall commence on or before the second anniversary of the date of the
Authorizing Resolution and shall be substantially complete (as reasonably determined by the
City) on or before the third anniversary of the date of the Authorizing Resolution. If there is an
increase in the costs of the Project or the System Improvements from that shown on Exhibit C
hereto, the Developer shall notify the City of the increase and submit additional evidence in a
form acceptable to the City that the Developer has the financial capacity and/or financial
commitments to cover such additional costs and complete the Project and the System
Improvements. At all times during the term of this Agreement, the Developer will operate and
maintain, preserve and keep the Project or cause the Project to be operated, maintained,
preserved and kept for the purposes for which it was constructed, and with the appurtenances and
every part and parcel thereof, in good repair and condition. The Developer agrees to permit the
City and any of its officers, employees or agents access to the Land for the purpose of inspection
of all work being performed in connection with the Project and the System Improvements.
3.2.
Preparation, Review and Approval of Construction Plans. In connection with the
Project and the System Improvements, the Developer, at its sole expense, shall prepare and
submit construction plans, drawings, and related documents for each portion of the Project and
the System Improvements to the appropriate City officials for architectural, engineering or land
use review and written approval or permits. The Developer acknowledges that no review or
approval by City officials may be in any way construed by the Developer to replace, override or
be in lieu of any required review, inspection, or approval by the City Engineer’s Office, or any
other construction official review or approvals required by any State laws or local ordinances or
regulations.
3.3.
Competitive Bidding; Prevailing Wage Rates; and Preference for Montana
Residents. The Developer understands that the City is obligated to follow certain laws with
respect to the expenditure of public funds, which includes SCIR Funding. The Developer agrees
that in the awarding of contracts or subcontracts for the System Improvements that (i) it will and
it will cause its contractors to competitively bid the contracts and subcontracts for each
component of the System Improvements; (ii) it will and it will cause its contractors and
subcontractors to pay Prevailing Wage Rates on such contracts or subcontracts related to the
System Improvements; (iii) it will and it will cause its contractors and subcontractors will give
preference to the employment of bona fide residents of the State, as required by Montana Code
Annotated Section 18-2-403 and as such term is defined by Montana Code Annotated Section
18-2-401(1) and the Administrative Rules of the State, including but not limited to A.R.M.
24.17.147, obliging the Developer and its contractors and subcontractors to hire 50% bona fide
Montana residents with respect to the installation and construction of the System Improvements;
and (iv) when making assignments of work, it will and it will cause its contractors and
subcontractors to use workers both skilled in their trade and specialized in their field of work for
all work to which they are assigned. The Developer will provide to the City all documentation
requested to verify the compliance of the Developer and its contractors and subcontractors with
the requirements set forth in this Section 3.3. Failure of the Developer and its contractors and
subcontractors to pay Prevailing Wage Rates with respect to the System Improvements shall be
considered a breach of this Agreement and the City shall be entitled to exercise any and all
measures to assure compliance and retroactive compensation plus interest to employees not paid
in accordance with this Agreement, and recovery of any penalty or fine assessed by the State
5

36

Agenda #1.

attributed to any failure to pay Prevailing Wage Rates. Additionally, the Developer
acknowledges that a violation of these requirements shall result in the City not being able to pay
or reimburse the Developer for costs of the System Improvements. “Prevailing Wage Rates”
means (i) Montana Prevailing Wage Rate for public works projects published from time to time
by and available from the Montana Department of Labor and Industry, Research and Analysis
Bureau, P.O. Box 1728, Helena, Montana 59624, telephone number (800) 541-3904; and (ii)
applicable Federal Prevailing Wage Rates for public works projects published from time to time
by and available at https://www.dol.gov/whd/govcontracts/PrevailingWageResources.htm or any
successor website.
3.4.
Easements. To the extent that the System Improvements are to be located on the
Land, the Developer hereby agrees to grant to the City and applicable utility companies from
time to time such easements, rights-of-way and similar licenses as are reasonably necessary to
permit the City or applicable utility company to own, operate and maintain the System
Improvements. The City and the Developer shall agree to the reasonable location, scope,
duration, type, form and use of such easements, rights-of-way or similar licenses pursuant to
separate instruments to be negotiated between the parties hereto in accordance with the intent of
this Section 3.4.
3.5.
Utilities. The Developer shall not interfere with or permit interference with, or
construct any improvements over, any public street or utility easement without the prior written
approval of the City. All connections to public utility lines and facilities shall be subject to
approval of the City and any private utility company involved. The Developer at its own
expense shall replace any public facilities or utilities damaged by the Developer or its agents or
by others acting on behalf of or under their direction or control of the Developer or its agents.
3.6.
Permits; Environmental Laws and Regulations. The Developer will obtain in a
timely manner all required permits, licenses and approvals, and will meet all requirements of all
federal, State and local laws, rules, regulations and ordinances, which must be obtained or met in
connection with the acquisition and construction of the Project and the System Improvements.
Without limiting the foregoing, the Developer will request and seek to obtain from the City or
other appropriate governmental authority all necessary variances, conditional use permits and
zoning changes. The Developer will comply in all material respects with all Environmental
Laws and Regulations applicable to the construction, acquisition and operation of the Project and
the System Improvements, obtain any and all necessary environmental reviews, licenses or
clearances under, and comply in all material respects with, Environmental Laws and
Regulations.
3.7.
Nondiscrimination; Anti-Competitive Conduct. The Developer agrees that all
hiring by the Developer and its contractors and subcontractors and persons performing this
Agreement will be on the basis of merit and qualification and will not discriminate on the basis
of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, age, marital status, physical or mental
disability, national origin, or other class protected by State and/or federal law.
3.8.
Construction Warranties. As part of the construction contract with the general
contractor constructing the System Improvements, Developer shall obtain a twenty-four month
construction warranty with respect thereto, beginning on the date of Substantial Completion

6

37

Agenda #1.

(such time period is referred to herein as the “Warranty Period”). The form of the warranty
shall be a maintenance bond equal to 20% of the actual cost of the improvements being dedicated
to the City. The City of Great Falls shall be named as dual obligee on the maintenance bond.
Maintenance bonds may be in the form of a surety bond, certified check, or an irrevocable letter
of credit issued by a bank licensed to do business in the state of Montana. If, during the
Warranty Period, if the City notifies the Developer of any defect in the workmanship or
construction of the System Improvements, then Developer shall enforce such construction
warranty against the general contractor constructing the System Improvements within 30
calendar days of being advised that repairs are required.

3.9.
Worker’s Compensation Insurance. The Developer shall provide in all
construction contracts and subcontracts with respect to the Project and the System Improvements
that each contractor and subcontractor is to be covered by a Worker’s Compensation insurance
program with the State, a private insurance carrier, or an approved self-insurance plan in
accordance with State law.
3.10. Taxes. The Developer shall pay or cause to be paid when due and prior to the
imposition of penalty all taxes and all installments of any special assessments payable with
respect to the Land and the Project and any improvements thereto or extension thereof.
Section 4. Reimbursement.
4.1.
Reimbursement Obligation. Subject to the provisions of this Section 4, the City
shall reimburse the Developer for costs of the System Improvements in an amount equal to the
actual costs thereof; provided, however, that the reimbursement for the System Improvements
shall not exceed $[________] in the aggregate. The obligation of the City to reimburse the
Developer for costs of the System Improvements shall be subject to (i) the completion, approval,
transfer, and acceptance by the City of all of the System Improvements and the respective costs
thereof, partial reimbursements will not be allowed, and (ii) the availability, in the sole discretion
of the City, of sufficient SCIR Funding for purposes of such reimbursement. The City will not
have any obligation to issue bonds, notes or other obligations in order to finance the
reimbursement of the System Improvements.
4.2.
Subordination. The Developer understands and agrees that the City currently has,
and may in the future have, one or more series of bonds payable from System Revenues and the
reimbursement obligations of the City pursuant to this Agreement are hereby subordinated in
right of payment to any and all of such bonds payable from System Revenues and shall be
payable only from and to the extent System Revenues available after payment of all amounts
then due and owing with respect to the bonds, as determined in the sole discretion of the City.
4.3.
Conditions to Reimbursement. Reimbursement for costs of the System
Improvements will be based on paid invoices for costs incurred by the Developer, its contractors
and subcontractors or any utility companies only upon completion of the System Improvements
and acceptance and transfer thereof to the City. The City may reject, in its sole discretion, any
invoice to the extent it is not part of the System Improvements. The parties hereto agree that the

7

38

Agenda #1.

City will not be required to reimburse costs of System Improvements unless at the time of such
request:
(a) all of the Developer’s representations as set forth in Section 2 hereof are
true and correct;
(b) the Developer is not in breach of any covenant or undertaking as set forth
in Section 3 hereof as of the time of such reimbursement;
(c) the City has determined that all of the System Improvements are
Substantially Complete and the Developer has transferred ownership of the System
Improvements to the City pursuant to the requisite documentation required by the City
in its sole discretion; and
(d) a certificate signed by Developer in substantially the form attached as
Exhibit D hereto shall accompany any invoices or requests for payment or
reimbursement by the City (the “Developer Requisition Form”).
Within 60 days of receipt from the Developer of a Developer Requisition Form, the City shall
issue a check payable to the Developer in the amount thereby requested pursuant to the terms and
conditions of this Agreement or shall otherwise communicate with the Developer regarding the
remaining conditions to reimbursement set forth in this Section 4 to be satisfied prior to such
check being issued (including the availability of sufficient System revenues, as determined by
the City in its sole discretion).
Section 5. Covenants.
Section 6. Release, Indemnification and Insurance.
6.1.
Release and Indemnification. The Developer releases the City and all
Commission members, officers, agents, servants and employees thereof (the “Indemnified
Parties”) from, and covenants and agrees that the Indemnified Parties shall not be liable for, and
agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Indemnified Parties against, any loss, damage,
cost (including reasonable attorneys’ fees), claim, demand, suit, action or other proceeding
whatsoever (i) arising or purportedly arising out of, or resulting or purportedly resulting from,
the acquisition and construction of the Project and the System Improvements, any violation by
the Developer of any agreement, condition or covenant of this Agreement, the ownership,
maintenance and operation of the Project or the System Improvements, or the presence on any
portion of the Land, of any dangerous, toxic or hazardous pollutants, contaminants, chemicals,
waste, materials or substances or (ii) which is caused by the Developer or its officers, agents,
contractors, subcontractors, consultants, employees or agents; except that such indemnification
shall not apply to the extent that the loss, damage or cost is determined by a court of competent
jurisdiction to have been caused by the gross negligence, willful misconduct or bad faith of the
Indemnified Party.
NEITHER THE CITY NOR THE DEVELOPER WILL BE LIABLE TO THE OTHER PARTY
FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, PUNITIVE, EXEMPLARY OR INDIRECT
DAMAGES, BY STATUTE, IN TORT OR CONTRACT.
8

39

Agenda #1.

6.2. Insurance. Developer shall keep and maintain the Project at all times insured
against such risks and in such amounts, with such deductible provisions, as are customary in
connection with facilities of the type and size comparable to the Project, and the Developer shall
carry and maintain, or cause to be carried and maintained, and pay or cause to be paid timely the
premiums for direct damage insurance covering all risks of loss (which need not include flood or
seismic), including, but not limited to, the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

fire
extended coverage perils
vandalism and malicious mischief
boiler explosion (but only if steam boilers are present)
collapse

on a replacement cost basis in an amount equivalent to the Full Insurable Value thereof. “Full
Insurable Value” shall include the actual replacement cost of the Project, without deduction for
architectural, engineering, legal or administrative fees or for depreciation. The policies required
by this Section 6.2 shall be subject to a no coinsurance clause or contain an agreed amount
clause, and may contain a deductibility provision not exceeding $100,000.
Subject to the terms of any mortgage relating to the Project, policies of insurance
required by this Section 6.2 shall insure and be payable to Developer, and shall provide for
release of insurance proceeds to Developer for restoration of loss. The City shall be furnished
certificates showing the existence of such insurance. In case of loss, the Developer is hereby
authorized to adjust the loss and execute proof thereof in the name of all parties in interest.
During construction of the Project, any and all of the foregoing insurance policies may be
maintained by the Developer’s contractor; provided that once the Project is placed into service,
Developer shall maintain all of the foregoing insurance policies.

Section 7. General Provisions.
7.1. Conflicts of Interest; City’s Representatives Not Individually Liable. No member,
officer, agent, servant or employee of the City shall have any personal interest, direct or indirect,
in this Agreement, the Project or the System Improvements, nor shall any such member, officer
or employee participate in any decision relating to this Agreement that affects his or her personal
interests or the interests of any corporation, partnership or association in which he or she is,
directly or indirectly, interested. No member, officer or employee of the City shall be personally
liable to Developer in the event of any default under or breach of this Agreement by the City, or
for any amount that may become due to Developer for any obligation issued under or arising
from the terms of this Agreement.
7.2. Rights Cumulative. The rights and remedies of the parties hereto, whether
provided by law or by this Agreement, shall be cumulative, and the exercise by any party hereto
of any one or more of such remedies shall not preclude the exercise by such party, at the same or
different times, of any other remedy for the same default or breach or of any of its remedies for
any other default or breach of the party subject to the limitation of remedies provided herein. No
9

40

Agenda #1.

waiver made by such party with respect to the performance or the manner or time thereof, of any
obligation under this Agreement, shall be considered a waiver with respect to the particular
obligation of the other party or a condition to its own obligation beyond those expressly waived
in writing and to the extent thereof, or a waiver in any respect in regard to any other rights of the
party making the waiver of any obligations of the other party. Delay by a party hereto instituting
or prosecuting any cause of action or claim hereunder shall not be deemed a waiver of any rights
hereunder.
7.3.
Term of Agreement. If all conditions precedent for the reimbursement by the City
of the costs of all System Improvements have not been satisfied by [________], 20[___], this
Agreement will terminate and the City will have no obligation to reimburse the Developer for
costs of the System Improvements. Otherwise, this Agreement will terminate when all
obligations hereunder have been satisfied or discharged. Notwithstanding any termination of this
Agreement, Sections 5, 6 and 7 shall in all events survive.
7.4.
Limitation on City Liability. No agreements or provisions contained in this
Agreement nor any agreement, covenant or undertaking by the City contained in this Agreement
or any other document executed by the City in connection with the System Improvements will
give rise to any pecuniary liability of the City or a charge against its general credit or taxing
powers, or will obligate the City financially in any way except with respect to the SCIR Funding.
No failure of the City to comply with any term, condition, covenant or agreement herein will
subject the City to liability for any claim for damages, costs or other financial or pecuniary
charge except to the extent that the same can be paid or recovered from SCIR Funding; and no
execution on any claim, demand, cause of action or judgment will be levied upon or collected
from the general credit, general funds or taxing powers of the City (except as such constitute
SCIR Funding). Nothing herein will preclude a proper party in interest from seeking and
obtaining specific performance against the City for any failure to comply with any term,
condition, covenant or agreement herein; provided that no costs, expenses or other monetary
relief will be recoverable from the City except as may be payable from SCIR Funding.
7.5.
Notices. All notices, certificates or other communications required to be given to
the City or the Developer hereunder will be sufficiently given and will be deemed given when
delivered or deposited in the United States mail in certified form with postage fully prepaid and
addressed as follows:
If to the City:

City of Great Falls
P.O. Box 5021
Great Falls, Montana 59403
Attn: Fiscal Services Director

If to the Developer:

___________________
___________________
___________________

The City and the Developer, by notice given hereunder, may designate different addresses to
which subsequent notices, certificates or other communications should be sent.

10

41

Agenda #1.

7.6.
Assignment. This Agreement is unique between the City and the Developer and
no party may assign any rights or privileges or delegate any duties or obligations under this
Agreement without first obtaining the written consent of the other parties hereto.
7.7.
Binding Effect. The right and obligations set forth in this Agreement shall inure
to the benefit of and shall be binding upon the City and the Developer and their respective
successors and assigns.
7.8.
Prior Agreements. This Agreement supersedes, merges and voids any and all
prior discussions, negotiations, agreements and undertakings between the parties hereto with
respect to the subject matter of this Agreement. The parties waive and release each other from
any claims, actions, or causes of action that relate in any manner to any prior discussions,
negotiations, agreements and undertakings between the parties with respect to the subject matter
of this Agreement.
7.9.
Severability. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held invalid or
unenforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction, such holding shall not invalidate or render
unenforceable any other provision hereof.
7.10. Amendments, Changes and Modifications. This Agreement may be amended or
any of its terms modified only by written amendment authorized and executed by the City and
the Developer.
7.11. Disputes. If any disagreement, dispute, claim, counterclaim, action or cause of
action arises with respect to this Agreement, or the interpretation, performance or enforceability
hereof, or the parties’ relative rights, obligations and remedies hereunder, the parties shall first
confer in good faith to resolve any disputes and, if a resolution cannot be mutually agreed to
within thirty (30) days of written notice thereof, the parties shall attempt to resolve the dispute
through non-binding mediation. If the parties cannot resolve the dispute through non-binding
mediation within sixty (60) days of written notice thereof, the District Court of the State of
Montana in and for Cascade County, Montana will be the exclusive location and/or forum for
any legal actions arising under this Agreement.
7.12. Governing Law. This Agreement and the legal relations between the parties
hereto shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State, without
giving effect to any choice of law statutes, rules, or principles.
7.13. Further Assurances and Corrective Instruments. The City and the Developer
agree that they will, from time to time, execute, acknowledge and deliver, or cause to be
executed, acknowledged and delivered, such supplements hereto and such further instruments as
may reasonably be required for carrying out the expressed intention of this Agreement.
7.14. Execution Counterparts. This Agreement may be simultaneously executed in
several counterparts, each of which shall be an original and all of which shall constitute one and
the same instrument.

11

42

Agenda #1.

7.15. Captions. The captions or headings in this Agreement are for convenience only
and in no way define, limit or describe the scope of intent of any provisions or Sections of this
Agreement.

[remainder of page left intentionally blank]

12

43

Agenda #1.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed
as of the _____ day of _______________, 20____.
CITY OF GREAT FALLS, MONTANA
[SEAL]
By
Gregory T. Doyon, City Manager

Attest:

____________________, City Clerk

APPROVED FOR LEGAL CONTENT:

___________________, City Attorney

*By law, the City Attorney may only advise or approve contract or legal document language on
behalf of the City of Great Falls, and not on behalf of other parties. Review and approval of this
document was conducted solely from the legal perspective, and for the benefit, of the City of
Great Falls. Other parties should not rely on this approval and should seek review and approval
by their own respective counsel.

13
44

Agenda #1.

[____________________]

Name:
Title:

STATE OF MONTANA
County of Cascade

)
: ss.
)

This instrument was acknowledged before me on ____________________, 20__ by
______________________ of ______________________, on behalf of said
________________________.

Printed Name: ____________________
Notary Public for the State of Montana
Residing at
, Montana
My Commission Expires:

(Notarial Seal)

14
45

Agenda #1.

EXHIBIT A
PROJECT NARRATIVE AND SITE PLAN OR OVERALL UTILITY PLAN WHICH
DELINEATES SCIR INFRASTRUCTURE

A-1

46

Agenda #1.

EXHIBIT B
SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS

B-1

47

Agenda #1.

EXHIBIT C
SCIR ELIGIBLE INFRSTRUCTURE ENGINEER’S ESTIMATE AS AN ITEMIZED
SCHEDULE OF VALUES EXCLUSIVE OF

C-1

48

Agenda #1.

EXHIBIT D
FORM OF DEVELOPER REQUISITION
TO:

City of Great Falls, Montana (the “City”)

FROM:

[________________] (the “Developer”)

SUBJECT:

Payment/Reimbursements for System Improvements

This represents Developer Requisition No. ____ in the total amount of $_________ for
payment of the System Improvements.
The undersigned, as Authorized Developer Representative, intends that this certificate
will satisfy the requirements of Section 4.3 of the Strategic Capital Investment Reserve
Agreement, dated as of [________], 20[___] between the City and the Developer, and does
hereby certify on behalf of the Developer that:
(a)
the expenditures for which payment or reimbursement is requested are
listed in summary form in the attached schedule;
(b)
the amounts requested have been paid by the Developer for property or to
contractors, subcontractors, materialmen, engineers, architects or other persons who will
perform or have performed necessary or appropriate services or will supply or have
supplied necessary or appropriate materials for the acquisition, construction, renovation,
equipping and installation of the System Improvements, as the case may be, and that, to
the best of my knowledge, the fair value of such property, services, or materials is not
exceeded by the amounts requested to be paid;
(c)
the cost of work to be paid or reimbursed has been competitively bid and
the contractor or subcontractor has paid the Montana prevailing wage for such work;
(d)
no part of the several amounts requested to be paid or reimbursed, as
stated in such certificate, has been or is the basis for the payment or reimbursement of
any money in any previous or pending request; and
(e)
the payment or reimbursement of the amounts requested will not result in
a breach of any of the covenants of the Developer contained in the Agreement.
Dated: _____________, 20___

[________________]
By:
Authorized Developer Representative

D-1

49

Agenda #2.

City of Great
Falls Parking
Summit

1

CITY OF GREAT FALLS PARKING SUMMIT
▪ Facilitate 3 four-hour meetings with

downtown business, property and residents
on parking.

▪ I facilitated a similar group in Bozeman

three years ago and came to appreciate the
complexity of parking AND our issues are
different than Bozeman.

▪ Parking is a very complex issue with no

one right answer (and it is never free!).

▪ Parking is as much a psychological issue as

it is a technical one.

2

50

Agenda #2.

CITY OF GREAT FALLS PARKING SUMMIT
▪ This Parking Summit group has

done really good work.

▪ The core group are committed,

passionate, reasonable people that
want downtown to be successful
AND are willing to support and
advocate for a more effective,
efficient system that pays for itself.
3

FOCUS OF DISCUSSION/SOLUTIONS
▪ Financial sustainability must be

addressed directly

▪ Infrastructure and technology

modernization are essential

▪ Enforcement and system integration

must be credible and consistent

▪ Customer experience and public

education are critical to the success
of the parking program

▪ There is shared stakeholder

responsibility – we are all part of the
success and must support and
advocate for the parking program
4

51

Agenda #2.

“WE ARE GOING TO BE BACK
HERE AGAIN IN 5 YEARS
TALKING ABOUT PARKING!”
- Parking Summit Participant
5

THE CHALLENGES
▪Downtown parking revenues
▪Confusion in parking systems

▪Aging infrastructure
▪Lack of technology to drive

decisions

6

52

Agenda #2.

BRINGING THE RIGHT PEOPLE TO THE TABLE
▪ Created the Downtown Parking

Summit

▪ Participants included residents,

retailers, property owners &
patrons

▪ Group given parameters that must

be met by the City Commission

7

WHAT WE HEARD
▪ Through several work sessions, participants discussed

experiences, concerns, and ideas.
▪ The goal was simple:

Identify practical ways to better manage
downtown parking.

8

53

Agenda #2.

THREE THEMES EMERGED
Across all discussions,
three priorities emerged:

1) Technology
2) Infrastructure
3) Safety
9

CHALLENGES OF CURRENT SYSTEM
▪ Aging infrastructure and outdated

technology

▪ Confusing parking rules and

multiple types of uses

▪ Perception of safety in the garages
▪ Limited promotion and marketing
10

54

Agenda #2.

FINANCIAL REALITIES OF PARKING
▪For enforcement to exist, there

must be revenues to support it

▪Over half of parking revenue is

generated from curbside
parking

▪Parking garages are highly

underutilized

11

INTERIM STEPS IMPLEMENTED
▪ March 3 the curbside rate was

increased from $1.00/hr to $1.50/hr

▪ Increases to parking tickets

▪ Elimination of courtesy tickets and

warning letters

▪ First 2 hours parking in garages is

free

12

55

Agenda #2.

PARKING SUMMIT RECOMMENDATIONS
▪ The stakeholders of downtown support the

interim changes and recommend making
them permanent.

▪ Pursue technology that is user-friendly and

allows for data-driven decision criteria

▪ Address deferred maintenance
▪ Address perceived safety issues
▪ Continue with month-to-month contract with

SP+ to allow for time for new rate evaluation
(6 & 12 month).

13

TECHNOLOGY & INFRASTRUCTURE
▪Modern parking systems are

easier to use and easier to
enforce
▪ Improvements include:

▪ License plate reader technology
▪ Automated garages
▪ Improved signage and system

integration
▪ Cashless parking system

14

56

Agenda #2.

SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS
▪Public confidence in garages is

critical

▪ Improved lighting and technology

(gates and automation).

▪ Clear branding and wayfinding.

▪ Coordination with GFPD for patrol

presence.

15

INVESTMENT IN DOWNTOWN PARKING SYSTEM
▪The Downtown Parking

Summit group recommends
utilizing up to $2.5 million of
downtown TIF funding to
purchase the technology and
perform the maintenance
needed to modernize our
parking system
16

57

Agenda #2.

DOWNTOWN STAKEHOLDER OPPORTUNITIES
▪Monthly parking passes
▪A voluntary business parking

validation program for patrons

▪Future exploration of creating a

Parking Improvement District
(PID) to allow for more flexibility
in the parking rates

17

IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE
▪ Upon recommendation from the City

Commission to move forward:

▪ Parking Advisory Committee along

with the established working group
will immediately begin to evaluate
technology needed to modernize our
system.

▪ Monthly evaluation of new rates to

monitor effectiveness

18

58

Agenda #2.

THE BIG PICTURE
▪ There is no FREE parking.
▪ Even if there is no parking fee, there are
still expenses to cover.

▪ There is no “solution” to parking.
▪ The goal is better management

through modern technology, strong
infrastructure, and working without
downtown community stakeholders.

19

59

Agenda #2.

2026 Downtown Parking Summit Implementation Tentative Timeline: The Next 12 Months

Parking systems are dynamic and highly responsive to user behavior, which is why the City should implement changes strategically and evaluate real-world results before making larger
long-term commitments. Current data reflects past policies, and time will be needed to understand how users respond to new rates, fines, and program changes. With each passing
month, staff will gain better information on how those changes are being absorbed and where adjustments may be needed. For that reason, staff recommend intentional, incremental
improvements rather than replacing the entire system at once. During this period, the City can also advance garage and technology upgrades that improve customer experience and
reduce operational workload. Staff further recommends keeping SP+ under a month-to-month or short-term renegotiated contract to preserve flexibility while changes are evaluated and
the system stabilizes.

Parking Policy, Program Updates & Pricing Adjustments

3/3/2026 - Implement
New Fees & Penalties
• $1.50 hourly rate on
Central Ave.
• First violation: $10;
second: $20; third: $40;
fourth and subsequent:
$40.
• Eliminated the
requirement for a separate
mailed notice prior to
booting after five or more
unpaid parking citations.

3/17/2026 – CC
Parking Update

• Present findings and
recommendations from
the Downtown Parking
Summit to the
commission.

5/1/26 – PAC & DPW
Next Steps

• Discuss potential
amendments to the
Downtown Urban Renewal
Plan related to parking
infrastructure and
technology improvements.
• Discuss the
implementation of
monthly and annual
Downtown Parking passes.

9/15/26 - 6 MONTH CC
EVAL & Further Parking
Policy Changes

3/27 - 12 MONTH CC
EVAL. & Further Parking
Policy Changes

• Evaluate whether
Downtown Parking
Program usage has
increased, decreased, or
remained stable.
• Evaluate and/or approve a
proposal and fees for
longer-duration on-street
parking with an escalating
rate after the first two
hours.

• Evaluate whether
Downtown Parking
Program usage has
increased, decreased, or
remained stable.
• Evaluate and/or approve
the implementation of a
monthly and annual
Downtown Parking pass.

System Infrastructure, Technology & Capital Improvements
SPRING 2026

5/1/26 – PAC & DPW
Next Steps

• Submit TIF request for
garage access and
security upgrades
• New Garage Gates
• Garage Security –
Rolling Steel Doors
• Exclusive stairwell
access for garage
customers
• Complete needed
Amendments to the
Downtown Urban
Renewal Plan.

• Meet to discuss
components that need
to be included and
addressed in RFI
(Request for
Information) based on
CC Direction.
• Discuss which items
that need to be
improved immediately
and do not need to be
addressed in the RFI

RFI - Publish |
6/18/26 Due |
6/26/26 PAC & DPW
Review

RFP/RFQ - 8/15/26
Publish | 9/29/26
Due

10/20/26 - Facilities
/Technology
RFP/RFQ Proposal to
CC

Fall 2026 & Beyond
- 2027

Including:

• Purchase, await, and
coordination of
necessary
equipment/facility/
technology
installation and
implementation.

• New, more favorable
parking payment
system.
• Improved directional
signage to parking
facilities.
• Improved automated
enforcement systems.

60

Agenda #2.

Montana City Parking Programs Comparison
3/12/2026
Great Falls Pre 3/3

Great Falls Current - Post 3/3

Billings

Missoula

Helena

Kalispell

Bozeman

Butte

1st - Free
2nd - $5.00
3rd - $10.00
4th and Subsequent - $20.00

1st - $10.00
2nd - $20.00
3rd - $40.00
4th and Subsequent - $75.00*

1st - $10.00
2nd - $20.00
3rd - $40.00
4th and more - $50.00

1st - $0.00
2nd - $50.00
3rd - $10.00
4th - $15.00
5th - $20.00

$10.00

$15.00
*Surface lots only
*Lot permits are sold out

First 2 hours free
If not moved - $23.50
*Includes $3.50 app fee

$20.00

Improper Parking
Violation Fee
Booting Fee

$20.00

$20.00

$25.00 - $200.00

$20.00

$25.00

$15.00

$53.50 - $63.50

5+ unpaid fines within the last Elimination of the additional mailing
12 months and more than 30
notification.
days overdue. Must provide
mail notifications. $150 boot fee

If fines are at $100.00 or more 5 or more citations that are 30
than sticker put on vehicle with days or older.
48 hour notice and if not paid $75.00 boot fee
than booted. $100 boot fee

5 or more unpaid fines
equaling over $75.00 and are
more than 30 days overdue.
$50.00 boot fee

3 or more outstanding fines.
$100.00 boot fee

6 or more citations within 12 No Booting
months receive a boot notice.
$153.50 boot fee

Meter Bagging Fee
(Contractors)

$5.00/day

$10.00/day

$20 for first day
$10 for additional days

10.00/day

$10.00/day

$2.00/day

N/A

N/A

*Cost of meter is $8.00/day

Courtesy Parking
Spot Fee

$400.00 on Central
$300.00 on other streets

Courtesy Parking Program to sunset in
2027

No Courtesy Parking

No Courtesy Parking

No Courtesy Parking

No Courtesy Parking

N/A

Available in surface lots

*12 months x 20 days = 240 days
120 x $8.00 per day = $1920.00

Pedlet Fee

$400.00/space/year
Same fee as "Courtesy Parking
Spot" below
$10.00 after 30 days

$500/space/year*

No Pedlet Program

No Pedlet Program

No Pedlet Program

No Pedlet Program

No Pedlet Program

No Pedlet Program

*6 months x 20 days = 120 days
120 x $8.00 per day = $960.00

$10.00 after 30 days

$25.00
12 days to appeal or pay

No late fee

$5.00 after 30 days

Handicap Zone
Violation Fee

$100.00

$100.00

$100.00

1st -$150.00
2nd - $300.00
3rd - $500.00

$100.00

No late fees
72 hours then sent to
collections
$100.00

$103.50

No late fee
30 days then sent to
collections
$150.00

On-street Meters
Rates

1.00/hour
2 hour maximum

$1.50/hour on Central Ave
$1.00/hour on all other streets

.50/hour

None
2-hour maximum

None
2-hour maximum

.50/hour
Capped at $5.00/day

1st Hr. - $1.00
2nd Hr. - $1.00 ($2.00 total)
3rd Hr. - $1.50 ($3.50 total)
4th Hr. - $2.00 ($5.50 total)
No maximum ($18.50 cap)
First hour free
$1.00 per hour after
Capped at $15.00/day

15 minutes free
$1.00/hour
Capped at $8.00/day
No maximum

Garage Parking
Rates

1st Hr. - $1.50
2nd Hr. - $1.50 ($3.00 total)
3rd Hr. - $3.00 ($6 total)
4th Hr. - $3.50 ($9.50 total)
4-hour maximum
$1.25/hour
Capped at $15.00/day

$1.00/hour
Capped at $8.00/day

No garages and lot permits are Free first 2 hours
all sold out
$1.00/hour after
$12.00/6 hour
$23.50 fine for nonpayment

$1.00/ hour
Capped at $12.00/day

City Department
Where Parking
Program is
Administered

Planning and Community
Development

.50/hour
Capped at $5.00/day
(In
the future will propose free for the first
2 hours; after $1.50 for each
subsequent hour)
Planning and Community Development Parking Department - Managed Parking Commission
by the Assistant City
Separate Dept. within City but
Administrator
self-financed. Governed by
Board of Directors

Transportation Systems
Department - 100% City
Employees

Police Department

Community Enrichment
Department - Parking, Weeds Will be going to Police
Department soon

Time Violation Fee

Late Fee

*Introduce a 365 day reset period for
fine escalations

Neighborhood Services/Code
Compliance Department

$30.00 - $100.00

61

Agenda #2.

City of Great Falls
Parking Fund
FY 2025 Actuals, FY 2026 Budget w/ Revenue
Changes, FY 2027 Projected Budget

FY 2025 Actuals

FY 2026 Budget
w/ Revenue
Changes

FY 2027
Projected
Budget **

$1,560
$500
$2,060

$2,500
$1,000
$3,500

$2,500
$1,000
$3,500

$59,360
$275,276
$8,277
$12,882
$1,602
$900
$3,815
$147,178
$58,780
$568,069

$60,000
$321,600
$9,000
$12,000
$1,500
$3,240
$3,500
$122,385
$65,000
$598,225

$60,000
$364,800
$9,000
$12,000
$1,500
$3,240
$3,500
$122,385
$65,000
$641,425

$34,996
$34,996

$65,000
$65,000

$142,641

$3,013
$3,013

$100
$100

$0
$0

$495
$0
$495
$608,633

$625
$1,000
$1,625
$668,450

$260
$0
$260
$787,826

Expenses
Personal Services
Supplies
Purchased Services
Internal Services
Total Expenses

$86,577
$1,469
$565,632
$94,350
$748,028

$110,766
$3,400
$553,027
$89,492
$756,685

$116,304
$3,570
$580,678
$93,967
$794,519

Total Revenues over (under) Expenses

($139,395)

($88,235)

($6,694)

Revenues*
Licenses & Permits
Delivery Permits
Loading Zone Licenses
Total License & Permits
Charges for Services
Off-Street Lots Leases
On-Street Parking Meters
Off-Street Lots Transient
Daily North Garage
Daily South Garage
Parking Boot Fees
PG Convenience Fee
North Garage
South Garage
Total Charges for services
Fines & Forfeitures
Parking Fines
Total Fines & forfeitures
Investment Income
Regular Interest
Total Investment income
Total Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous Revenues
Property Damage Restitution
Total Miscellaneous
Total Revenues

One Time Improvements
Technology and Safety Improvements (funded from Downtown TIF)

$142,641

$2,500,000

A fiscal year is from July to June. Example: FY 2025 is from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025.
*Revenue projections are based on historical revenues. As technology is implemented and information
is available projections will be updated. Current revenue changes became effective March 3, 2026.
**FY 2027 Assumptions: Staffing Assumption: keep Standard Parking staff on a month to month
contract. 5% expense increase. Cost savings from technology and safety improvements are not
reflected in FY 2027 projections. The FY 2027 Projected Budget is projections that will be used in the
development of the FY 2027 Proposed Budget, but will not be the FY 2027 Proposed Budget.

62