SUPPORTING EXISTING SMALL BUSINESSES WHILE FACILITATING INTENTIONAL BUSINESS GROWTH

Helena has a unique opportunity to be intentional with its plan for economic growth, finally. However, we must not forget those businesses that have contributed to our community for decades! For Helena to reach its full potential, city leadership must balance both!

Supporting Existing Small Businesses

• Conduct Regular Surveys & Visits: Our local businesses must know they are valued and heard. I will make sure I’m accessible and responsive to our local businesses. 

• Create a Local Business Roundtable: I will host quarterly roundtable meetings where local business owners and operators can share concerns, collaborate, and communicate with city leadership.

• Recognize Local Businesses: Monthly spotlight programs (e.g., “Helena Business of the Month”) to celebrate their contributions through social media and Helena Magazine.

• Helena Business Association Revitalization: Work with local business leaders to revitalize the HBA. I would love to see our First Fridays return!

• Shop Local Campaigns: Quarterly “Shop Helena” initiatives. As Mayor, I can promise that if it can be purchased in Helena, it WILL be purchased in Helena!

Intentional Economic Growth

• Leverage Future Opportunities: The annexation of Indian Ford and the 52 corridor, coupled with the development of Blackridge Parkway and the new 459 Exit 9, is providing Helena with a unique opportunity to leverage commercial growth while reducing traffic congestion.

• New and Existing Opportunity Identification: Compile a comprehensive list of all available properties for development with current zoning, as well as all currently vacant retail space.

• Community and Business Owner Collaboration: Identification of the types of businesses that the community would like to see and that complement existing businesses.  

• Economic Development Board: This board will be composed of community members with specific skill sets related to real estate, development, and business attraction. I will work closely with this board to proactively attract the businesses that our community will be excited to have!

Historically, growth in Helena has appeared haphazard at best. By collaborating with you, the citizens of Helena, business leaders, and development experts to develop and execute a plan, Helena will begin to see growth they can get excited about!