Billings City Council discusses budget impacts of new state legislation

The Billings City Council held a work session on May 5, 2025, focusing on critical financial issues facing the city. The meeting aimed to provide direction to staff regarding the implications of recent legislative changes and the upcoming budget.

City officials emphasized the need for clarity on three main goals. First, they sought to understand how Senate Bill 542 and House Bill 231 would affect local residents and the city's revenue. Second, the city administrator highlighted the importance of developing a balanced budget, noting that previous assumptions about growth rates had changed significantly. Lastly, discussions included the timing of a potential charter amendment that may be presented to voters in the coming years.

The city administrator outlined the urgency of these discussions, given the strict time constraints the council faces. The meeting included presentations from key officials, including a city attorney who provided legal insights, followed by a question-and-answer session and public comments.

Overall, the work session underscored the complexities of the city's financial situation and the need for decisive action as the council prepares for future budgetary challenges. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining how these legislative changes will shape the city's financial landscape.