HomeMy WebLinkAboutMay 2022 BRCD Meeting Materials
Beartooth RC&D Area, Inc.
Board of Director’s Meeting Agenda
Meeting 1:00 P.M.
Columbus Fire Hall 944 Pike Ave, Columbus, MT
Thursday, May 19th, 2022
Conference Number
605-475-5900
Access code 8472365
1:00 pm
2:30 PM
Meeting Called to Order
Pledge of Allegiance, Introduction of Members and Guests
Review March Board Minutes
Congressional Updates
Maddie Alpert (Sen. Tester)
Tory Kolkhorst (Sen. Daines)
Cade Overstreet (Rep. Rosendale)
Treasurer/Financial Reports
1. Treasurer Update
2. RC&D Financials
3. RLF Financials
CEDS UPDATE
BSTF Signature
Staff Reports – Program/Project updates
1. Food/Ag Program – Joel Bertolino
2. Revolving Loan Fund – Nan Knight
3. Economic Development/ CRDC – Jacy Head
4. Operations Support- Myrna Lastusky
Regional Roundup – News and updates from regional
members on projects and activities in key CEDS categories….
(see topics on next page)
Next Beartooth RC&D Area, Inc. Board of Directors Meeting
July 21st, 2022 - Beartooth RC&D Carbon County
Adjourn
Chair
Chair, All
Chair, All
Head, Lastusky
Head
Bertolino
Knight
Head
Lastusky
Roe
et al
Action
Information
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Action
Action
Information
Action
Information
Information
Information
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Information
Information
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Regional Roundup
CEDS SWOT
Our goals for the Roundup are to find out what’s happening in the area, keep the conversations
focused, inform the others attending the meeting, and to tie it all back to and reinforce the importance of
the CEDS. Please help us identify the projects in their area that fit into our CEDS categories:
Infrastructure
Housing
Transportation
Broadband
Economy
Upturns or downturns in industry sectors
New business openings (or closures)
Communication
Marketing and outreach
Services
Health care
Natural Resources
Agriculture
Energy
Human Capital
Workforce
Education
NOTES:
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Beartooth RC&D Area, Inc. Board of Director’s Meeting MINUTES March 21st, 2022
Agenda
1:00 pm
2:30 PM
Meeting Called to Order
Pledge of Allegiance, Introduction of Members and Guests
Review January Board Minutes
Executive Committee Nominations
Congressional Updates
Maddie Alpert (Sen. Tester)
Tory Kolkhorst (Sen. Daines)
Cade Overstreet (Rep. Rosendale)
Treasurer/Financial Reports
4. Treasurer Update
5. RC&D Financials
6. RLF Financials
CEDS UPDATE
Staff Reports – Program/Project updates
5. Food/Ag Program – Joel Bertolino
6. Revolving Loan Fund – Nan Knight
7. Economic Development/ CRDC – Jacy Head
8. Operations Support- Myrna Lastusky
Regional Roundup – News and updates from regional
members on projects and activities in key CEDS categories….
(see topics on next page)
Next Beartooth RC&D Area, Inc. Board of Directors Meeting
May 19th, 2022 - Stillwater County
Adjourn
Chair
Chair, All
Chair, All
Chair
Head, Lastusky
Bertolino
Knight
Head
Lastusky
Roe
et al
Action
Action
Information
Information
Action
Action
Information
Information
Information
Information
Information
Information
Information
Page 4
ATTENDANCE
Board of Directors Meeting
March 17, 2022
Minutes
Members Present:
Joel Bertolino, BRCD
Nan Knight, BRCD
Jacy Head, BRCD
Myrna Lastusky, BRCD
Ryan Van Ballegooyen, Billings Job Service
Holly Higgins, First Interstate Bank of Hardin
Lorene Hintz, Big Sky EDA SBDC
Dan Lowe, Big Horn County Conservation District
Scott Miller, Carbon County Commissioner
Larry Keltner, FIB Hardin President
Meeting Called to Order at 1:00 pm.
Pledge of Allegiance, Introduction of Members and Guests
Review January Board Minutes
Scott Miller motioned to approve the minutes. Holly Higgins seconded. Motion passed.
Executive Committee Nominations
Jeff McDowell no longer has time to serve, but will continue as an alternate. Ryan, Melanie, and Marissa are
all willing to continue serving, and no one else was nominated.
Motion to keep current Executive Committee officers: Ryan motioned, Lorene seconded. Motion carried.
Congressional Updates – No one attended
Treasurer/Financial Reports
1. Treasurer Update
a. See the attached report.
b. If you would like to review the audit report, give Nan your email and she will send it to you.
c. Pg. 12: RLF updates on loans:
i. 2 in Big Horn
ii. 2 in Stillwater
iii. Closed a loan in Yellowstone yesterday – with a concrete company and great people to work
with. 20-year loan but they will probably pay it off sooner.
iv. Carbon County has a loan pending – will bring us up to 3. Will hopefully be closed at the
beginning of April.
v. 2 in Sweet Grass
d. At bottom is where bank accounts are sitting at end of February – what we have to lend out.
e. 2 “troublemakers”: Nan was able to get in touch with one lender and is working with them to get the
money from that loanee (they must give half the money up front and then remainder will be paid off in
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monthly increments). Another one has an inter-creditors agreement with Yellowstone Bank, so we are
sitting pretty good with it.
2. RC&D Financials
a. Beartooth Books (p 13): Showing what ins and expenses are moving out.
3. RLF Financials
a. A $200,000 loan for Yellowstone County and a $210,000 loan for Carbon County are both set to close
this month.
b. RLF funding inquiries have been very active.
c. EDA de-federalization application is completed and accepted; just waiting on EDA signature.
d. One of Stillwater County loans was paid off in January.
Dan motioned to approve the financial updates; Holly seconded. Motion carried.
CEDS Update (Jacy)
Had most recent CEDS Committee meeting this week and have goals pretty well in place.
Working on Evaluation Framework and Strategies / Projects for the next 5 years.
Myrna & Jacy have been working on Summary Background, have SWOT Analysis completed, and overall
moving forward. But in May we will need to definitely prioritize to work on CEDS a LOT.
o Need to have it pretty much complete by July 1st, then open it for a 30-day window for public
comment. Then have another 30-day window to address all public comments and address to EDA how
we responded to every single public comment. Not many in the past, but we need to be ready for that.
Must submit to EDA by September.
Keep fingers crossed that EDA is happy with everyone now. CEDS 5-year update came up a year early for us
because EDA wants to get all Economic Development Districts on the same timeline. Many other EDDs have
asked for extensions to finish their CEDS.
o Joel: We don’t want to ask for an extension unless we absolutely have to because it just prolongs the
pain.
o Jacy: Yes, we are going to just do our best on it.
o Ryan/Joel: The CEDS is a great outline or roadmap for needs and projects in our region. Joel said Jacy
& Myrna have done a great job of outreach and that is continuing as we work through the CEDS.
Jacy: Tara Mastel with the Extension is working on a study of migration patterns – where are all these people
moving from and where are our people moving to. I’m hoping she can come to Red Lodge in September and
want to incorporate that study.
o If anyone knows of good studies, pass them on to Jacy.
o Joel: Bureau of Economic Research has some good data on this, also – in and out migration with
estimates.
Ryan: California and Colorado. Californians moved to Colorado at one point because it was
like Montana, but now they want to move to Montana b/c it’s like CO used to be – at least
until they saturate us, too.
Scott: Growth happened after the census. From 2010-2020, Carbon County only grew by 400
people, which isn’t accurate.
Ryan & Scott discussed the water issue around Bozeman – one of the main concerns of those
commissioners right now.
Ryan: 40% of real estate transactions are by a holding company and not an individual right
now.
Joel: And Bozeman’s growth record isn’t just based on the state but on the country.
Lorene: We don’t want their MHI either – about $800,000
Ryan: $3800/month for a 2-bedroom apartment
o Lorene: They are doing a great job on the CEDS. Keep it up!
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Staff Reports – Program/Project updates
Food & Ag Program (Joel)
1. Working through Growth Through Ag grants. Several applicants made it to the second round. Pioneer
Meats got improved for improvements to their plant.
2. Worked through ARPA Value-Added Ag Grants – quite a few meat plants applied to add space and
capacity. Will hear back on those in a couple weeks. Up to $500,000.
3. Growth Through Ag Projects & ARPA Value-Added Producer Grants
i. Yellowstone Valley Farms – Reuben Stahl in Laurel
1. Joel & Nan visited with Reuben Stahl outside of Laurel – trying to add space to his
greenhouse. Good-sized operation he’s been doing for 15 years.
ii. Mill Creek Farms – Josh Sian in Pompey’s Pillar
iii. Blue Creek Marbled Beef – Nels Pearson in Blue Creek south of Billings
1. Really mind-blowing operation. Invited Lorene to tour that with them. Hope to be up
and running in July. Set it up so they can add on to it easily. Should help direct
marketers and raise production level.
2. Scott asked if anyone is processing Bison? Joel said Stillwater Packing does. Blue
Creek is likely just doing beef (no pork), but possibly yaks, maybe bison?
iv. Carbon County Meats – Sabina Giovetti in Belfry
1. Joel toured recently. They opened last summer. Have had so much demand, they want
to build a larger one at a different location. Possibly use the current one for just wild
game.
v. Toews Family Farms – Aaron Toews in Hardin
1. Been growing grain for years and decided to bag it; surprised with demand and needs
a bigger place. Looking for funding options.
vi. Prime Meats – Lamont Herman in St. Xavier
vii. Primitive Meats – Kelsey Grice in Worden
1. Put them in touch with an engineer
4. Doing more outreach each month with Lane Gobbs. Visited Meadowlark Brewing in Billings.
Fascinating! Huge microbrewery.
i. Lorene was there yesterday with SBDC and he has 9 tanks he is brewing. Not open yet, but is
getting very close – maybe waiting on licensing.
ii. Joel: He’s trying to get a full liquor license.
5. Ongoing Projects
i. Basin Inc – Judy Edwards in Big Timber
ii. Yellowstone Valley Food Hub – Schahczenski in Billings
iii. 406 Bovine LLC – Bryan Elliot in Laurel
1. Still trying to raise money for Ag Tech product line – facial recognition for livestock;
hardest part is initial entry of photos.
2. Lorene: Mainly for registered cattle? Additional marketing piece – people will know
where their meat came from; can follow an animal throughout entire life.
iv. Stillwater Packing Co/Emmett’s Meats – Jason Emmett in Columbus
1. Joel will visit them & bring Carbon County Meats along to help them get more info.
v. Pioneer Meats – Brian Engle in Big Timber
1. Invested $600,000 in that facility. Toured them in Nov.
vi. Big Sky Beef – Gary Guessman
1. Large processing facility
vii. Becky’s Berries – Becky Stahl in Absarokee
viii. F Bar 3 Vineyards – Kasey Felder in Laurel
1. Toured this recently
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6. Beartooth FADC initiated contact with:
i. Kathy Bauer – Roberts – ways to add value for a small ag operation
ii. North 40 Ag – Huntley
iii. Robin Whalen – Columbus – referred to us by Veterans Business Outreach Center
iv. Patrick Certain – Billings – local vegetable farm operation
v. Bio Economy Solutions – Hardin
vi. Miller’s Custom Meats – possible processing in Joliet
2. Economic Development/CRDC (Jacy)
1. EDA CARES Act – continuing through June 2022
i. Myrna meets with Deb Brown, Watch Parties, Bozeman Trail meetings
1. $3380 left of CARES money, and we got it approved to use for some mapping work
on Bozeman Trail. Myrna recently met with DOC and others to discuss these efforts.
ii. Big Sky EDA – using funding for trainings and other work. Myrna is working with our EDA
rep, Caroline, and BSEDA on possible extension so they can complete an industry study on
TIF Districts. Waiting to hear more from BSEDA.
iii. Received final housing study from Cushing Terrell and CT will be presenting to Montana
Housing Coordinating Team in April.
2. BSTF
i. Red Lodge Pea Cannery – hopefully wrapping up in April. Will get funds from DEQ once we
finalize with High Plains Architects.
ii. Stillwater County Industrial Park Feasibility Study – KLJ was selected for the project’s
contractor; hope to execute contracts by March 25th. Moving along well.
3. ARPA
i. Jacy continues to attend the meetings for updates
4. USDA RCDI Grant – create Economic Dev position in BHC
i. Interviewed 4 different applicants, but they weren’t suited for the position so it remains open
until filled. 1 more applicant came in since. Once someone is hired we will be training them.
5. CEDS
i. Creating draft document, meeting with CEDS Strategy Committee, and doing remaining
public outreach, getting input and incorporating it.
ii. Anticipated completion of first final document will be June & open for public comment for 30
days.
6. Reporting: April is busy month
i. EDA Partnership Planning Grant – similar to CEDS Annual update
ii. 1st Qtr CRDC Report
1. Almost approved with 4th qtr reports from CRDC
iii. BSTF
1. Qtr reports for 2 grants
iv. 1st qtr reports for RCDI grant
3. RLF (Nan) – see notes above from Treasurer’s Report
1. Defederalization
i. Everything is submitted, but it’s been delayed due to ARPA stuff going. We should be able to
sign off in the next month.
Regional Roundup:
Scott Miller, Carbon County Commissioner
1. Marijuana has hit MT. Carbon County is leading the way on resolutions. With the recent issue of the marijuana
shop in Roberts, we didn’t shut the guy out or run his business out – we put a resolution together to put
ordinances in, which were required distances from churches/schools, etc. He already had a commercial
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business, so he didn’t need a commercial license to put it in. Our resolutions were to prevent shacks from
popping up next to schools. We have a Green County Commissioner Team to let others know what is
happening. It’s up to the people of Carbon County (we live in America!).
2. We have a Health Dept that works for the people. 3 new people that are nurses and are hiring 3 more people.
All the schools are on board with MOU to have health nurses in the schools, have school nurses to provide
shots and other care. Many people were scared of County Health officer before, so now have County Health
Dept that works for the people.
a. Dane Lowe asked if nurses were operating under a doctor. Scott said yes, they are. Nurse can also send
them to regular provider and confirm that prescriptions are correct, lining people up with
Medicare/Medicaid, getting children healthcare, etc.
3. County hired some new people because some people were doing 8 jobs.
4. This summer they’re hiring an engineer to provide guidance on the courthouse, sheriff’s department, and
fairgrounds to provide for growth in the future. We don’t have the facilities now so we need to look forward.
5. Big Sky Rail Authority has started to really pick up. Board President has been in DC and met with
Transportation Secretary. Ramping up to provide services across the country. It’s coming faster than Scott
thought it would happen. Passenger Rail Authority may be here in the next 2 years. Money is coming faster.
Will take a BIG number. They have to inspect tracks since it’s passenger – different weight for passenger vs.
freight. Will go through Denver. Once Transportation Authority passes it, Amtrak will be rolling. Everyone is
on board, but big government is slowing things down.
a. No major upgrades needed – just inspections and upgrading some older track – and where/how to put
the depots in. Yellowstone County doesn’t want it, but other counties are very excited about it. Will
bring money to the state but will cost the federal government a lot of money.
6. Just had Ski Joring in Red Lodge.
7. Renaissance Faire in June – 7,000 people will be coming (10,000 in entire county!)
Dan Lowe, Big Horn County Conservation District
1. Invasive Aquatic Station – in middle of hiring Board-approved applicant. Unique because the position is from
daylight to dark. Supposed to start April 15th.
2. National Association of Conservation Districts Conference in Orlando this year – Dan has been to about half of
these conferences. Great opportunity to talk to other people and see what is happening in other regions since
there are people from all over U.S. and U.S. territories even. There were many young Native American people
there who are taking an active role in their areas, which was a breath of fresh air.
Holly Higgins, First Interstate Bank of Hardin
1. Now have 3 places to buy coffee in town (and rolls!).
2. Annie’s Deli is now in downtown.
3. Police Force is now up and running. Hired 6 deputies. Some issues between County Sheriff’s Office and
the City Police and dispatch and who acts on which calls.
a. Article in paper today about the division between the departments.
4. Concern over inflation with Custom Combiners – for farmers who don’t own a combine. This is one of
most expensive things usually, but with gas inflation, who knows what this will cost this year. Some
farmers have such big farms they are unable to help neighboring farms out.
a. Scott: Hay shortage due to drought has made hay very expensive, so many people need to sell the
cattle because they can’t feed them . . . ripple effect.
b. Joel: Herd is decreasing. If we have another drought many won’t make it. Might be able to survive
one, but not two in a row.
c. Holly: People were struggling already, so inflation is really hurting.
d. Scott: It’s not just the oil the war is impacting – a lot of food came out of Ukraine, which is similar
to war in Iraq.
Lorene Hintz, Big Sky EDA Small Business Development Center
1. Veterans Training coming up on Tuesday
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2. Celebrated SBDC Day yesterday – national day started by the center in Helena. Bought a big Costco cake and
went to 14 businesses and served cake to employees. Fun day!
a. ____________ = little restaurant started during Covid and then expanded. There were 11 employees
there for lunchtime.
3. Rise & Restore 1-day business workshop – Nikki Edmonds is keynote speaker, panel, 2 breakout sessions,
showing Edge of Plains documentary over lunch, at 3:00 there are optional tours – Swanky Roots, Red Ox,
Canty Boots, then Beer & Bingo at night. Join them for a great day.
4. Ask Lorene to tell you about her grandkids and their State Basketball Championships!
Next Beartooth RC&D Board of Directors Meeting: May 19, 2022 – Stillwater County
2:33: Adjourn
Revolving Loan Fund Books- February 2022
Loan Client Review
County # of loans $ Loaned out
Big Horn 2 $166,176.89
Stillwater 2 $145,779.59
Yellowstone 7 $343,486.16
Carbon 2 $17,946.55
Sweet Grass 2 $161,730.90
A $200K loan for Yellowstone County & A 210K for Carbon County set for closing this month.
RLF funding inquiries has been very active.
EDA De-federalization application completed an accepted, waiting on EDA signature.
One of Stillwater County loans paid off in January.
Bank Balances as of February 2022 Total available for lending
Bank of Joliet- EDA $78,964.78 78,964.78
Bank of Joliet-CDBG $426,940.59 226,940.59
Bank of Joliet- IRP $157,117.43 37,117.43
Bank of Joliet-Fromberg $31,238.77 31,238.77
$374,261.57
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Budgeted Autual
%
of budgeted
Income
AG-FOOD AND AG CENTER 45,000 11,235 25%
AG-MCDC 500 0 0%
BOARD - EDA SPONSOR DUES56,979 42,731 75%
BOARD-INTEREST INCOME 400 11 3%
BOARD-FOUNDATION MONEY 3,300 0 0%
RLF-STAFF REIMBURSE 18,000 0 0%
RLF-ORIG FEES 5,000 0 0%
CRDC 71,000 0%
CGWG - 0 #DIV/0!
MISC- GRANT ADMIN$12,750 4,013 31%
EDA- GRANT 70,000 0 0%
EDA- CARES 100,000 100,000
TOTAL INCOME 382,929 157,990 41%
TOTAL STAFF EXPENSE 233,104 38,617 17%
COMMUNICATIONS 6,000 1,563 26%
EQUIPMENT & VEHICLE 8,520 630 7%
CONTRACTUAL 20,000 47,270 236%
SUPPLIES 12,900 1,784 14%
TRAVEL 11,080 65 1%
OTHER 10,420 8,465 81%
RESERVE -
EXPENSE TOTAL 302,024 98,394 33%
Bank of Joliet-Building Account$4,476.88
Bank of Joliet- Savings Account$64,604.78
Bank of Joliet- Checking Account$176,181.79
Beartooth Books- Reporting Ending February 2022
Expense
Account Balances
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Revolving Loan Fund Books- April, 2022
Loan Client Review
County # of loans $ Loaned out
Big Horn 2 $34,847.60
Stillwater 1 $153,834.92
Yellowstone 8 $554,907.43
Carbon 3 $230,255.33
Sweet Grass 2 $169,052.08 Total:
16 $1,142,897.85
One new $165K loan for Yellowstone County set to close in June. (2nd position on commercial
property for a Car wash/ Business building).
New loan closed in Carbon county ( 1st position for a commercial building)
EDA De-federalization still waiting on EDA signature.
One of Stillwater County loans paid off in April.
Bank Balances as of February 2022 Total available for lending
Bank of Joliet- EDA $88,009.57 $88,009.57
Bank of Joliet-CDBG $231,279.89 $66,276.89
Bank of Joliet- IRP $174,352.99 $54,352.99
Bank of Joliet-Fromberg $31,238.77 31,238.77
$262,916.34
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Beartooth Books- Reporting Ending April 2022
Budgeted Actual
%
of budgeted
Income
AG-FOOD AND AG CENTER 45,000 11,235 24.97%
AG-MCDC 500 0 0.00%
SPECIALTY BLOCK 40,000 0.00%
BOARD - EDA SPONSOR DUES 56,979 43,005 75.48%
BOARD-INTEREST INCOME 400 0.00%
BOARD-FOUNDATION MONEY 3,300 3,529 106.93%
RLF-STAFF REIMBURSE 18,000 0 0.00%
RLF-ORIG FEES 5,000 4,190 83.80%
CRDC 71,000 17,961 25.30%
MISC- GRANT ADMIN$ 12,750 3,380 26.51%
EDA- GRANT 70,000 35,000 0.00%
EDA- CARES 100,000 100,000 0.00%
NOT BUDGED INCOME 7,140 0.00%
TOTAL INCOME 422,929 225,440 53.30%
Expense
TOTAL STAFF EXPENSE 233,104 76,384 32.77%
COMMUNICATIONS 6,000 2,500 41.67%
EQUIPMENT & VEHICLE 8,520 1,270 14.91%
CONTRACTUAL 20,000 57,355 286.77%
SUPPLIES 12,900 4,188 32.47%
TRAVEL 11,080 685 6.18%
OTHER 10,420 12,899 123.79%
RESERVE -
EXPENSE TOTAL 302,024 155,282 51.41%
Account Balances
Bank of Joliet-Building Account $4,477.43
Bank of Joliet- Savings Account $64,636.64
Bank of Joliet- Checking Account $198,720.83
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Beartooth RC&D Staff Project Update
May 2022
FOOD AND AG CENTER PROJECTS
Beartooth FADC
Beartooth FADC activities have been focused on assisting producers with the Growth Through Ag Grant and
Loan program and waiting on the Montana Value Added ARPA grant funding as well as conference calls
with the Dept of Ag. Beartooth FADC worked with Weston Merrill and the Department of Agriculture t o
develop a tour of Ag businesses that were previous grant recipients. The Director, Deputy Director, Bureau
Chief and Communications toured Becky’s Berries, Midland Bull Test, Blue Creek Marbled Meats, Ranch
House Meats, Yellowstone Food Hub and Grains of Montana. Bearrtooth FADC has worked with the other
Food and AG Centers to develop an application for the USDS Local Food Promotion Program that would
provide funding for the FADC network to promote Montana Beef in Montana Schools. Part of the funding
would also be used in development a collaborative state wide training for food entrepreneurs with the
SBDC network.
Growth Through Ag Projects and ARPA Value Added Ag Grant
Beartooth FADC has worked with several businesses Growth Through Ag grant some of these will have an
opportunity to be granted funding and we will continue to assist them in completing their business
expansion projects.
New England Chowder Co
Location- Big Timber, MT
Contact- Craig Rief
Craig Rief has been in the soup business for 18 years on the East Coast and decided to move his business to
Big Timber where he has owned a building for several years. Beartooth FADC visited his new location that
is nearly operational. We discussed the local Agricultural commodities he is using in his recipes and where
he could source some local products as well as the addition of local products in the future. The business
markets its soups nationwide and internationally and will be looking at funding for equipment in the future.
BioEconomy Solutions
Contact- Victor Garlington
Location- Hardin, MT
Victor Garlington is the contact for BioEconomy Solutions a firm interested in investing in the development
of a Safflower Oil Seed processing operation in Big Horn County. Beartooth FADC has worked with them
on exploring funding sources and put them in contact with an engineering firm locally that will be able to
assit them with the design of infrastructure on their site. Beartooth FADC will be touring their location in
the coming months.
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Oswald Farms
Contact- Melissa Oswald
Location- Joliet, MT
Oswald Farms in Joliet has been marketing their beef locally through direct sales and wholesale through
local restaurants, they are looking to expand and develop a retail store on highway 310 so Beartooth FADC
worked with them on the development of a USDA Value Added Producer Grant for operating capital.
Meadowlark Brewing
Contact- Travis Peterson
Location- Billings, MT
Meadowlark brewing is finishing the construction of a brewery on the west end of Billings, we toured their
facility with MMEC representative Lane Gobbs and discussed the local ingredients they use in their product
line.
Ranch House Meats/ Pure MT Meats
Contact- Tonya Flowers
Location- Huntley, MT
Ranch House Meats began processing and retailing their branded meats in Billings and expanded their
operation when they bought a meat plan in Miles City where their locally grown hogs and beef are processed
and they shipped to their plant outside of Billings for further processing and distribution. Beartooth FADC
assisted them with the development of a successful ARPA grant for $200,000.00 for upgrades to their
operation. They also hosted a tour of their retail facility for the MT Department of Agriculture staff in April.
On Going Projects
Mill Creek Farms
Contact- Josh Sian
Location-Pompeys Pillar
Josh Sian manages Mill Creek Farms they farm and ranch in Yellowstone county and operate a value added
feedlot where they specialize in heifer development for other producers offering a custom feeding p rogram
tracking their weights, carcass traits and reproduction suitability. Beartooth FADC assisted Josh in
developing a Value Added ARPA grant for improved infrastructure in their heifer development operation.
Unfortunately, their application was not successful, however Beartooth FADC will be following up with the
business.
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Blue Creek Marbled Beef
Contact-Nels Pearson
Location-Blue Creek South of Billings
Blue Creek Marbled beef are developing a state inspected meat processing plant South of Billings they are
under construction and expect it to be a 2-3 million dollar project. Beartooth FADC assisted this business in
applying for the Value Added ARPA grant for construction and equipment costs. The business receive the
ARPA funding for $300,000.00. Their new plant is located next to their feedlot, which they are now
expanding as well to include more pens for finishing beef, we plan to continue to assist them with any grants
that will assist them with this project, they hope to be ready to open for business this summer. Blue Creek
Marbled Meats hosted the Department of Ag Staff and the Governor on a tour of their new facility in April.
Yellowstone Valley Farm
Contact-Reuben Stahl
Location-Laurel
Reuben Stahl has a family greenhouse business growing basil and selling to FSA and Sysco, he would like to
add another greenhouse to keep up with increased demand this last year. He has applied for the Montana
Value Added Ag ARPA funding. Beartooth FADC and Nan Knight toured Yellowstone Valley Farms opera tion
and discussed their plans for expansion as they are currently unable to meet the increased demand for
their products and would like to add another greenhouse to their operation.
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Carbon County Meats-
Contact-Sabina Giovetti
Location-Belfry
Sabina and Shane Giovetti have built a custom exempt meat processing plant in Belfry, MT and opened this
Fall, they have been busy but have a need to expand already especially their cooler space, Beartooth FADC
took a tour of their facility in Belfry, discussed potential funding sources and worked with them on their
plans to expand their business, we arranged tours of two area meat plants to look at their process and layout.
Prime Meats of MT
Contact-Lamont Herman-
Location- St Xavier Big Horn County
Lamont Herman has a cattle ranch and is looking to add profit by finishing some beef having then processed
and packaged and then selling directly to consumers and restaurants. He began direct selling over a year
ago and the demand has grown he is now looking for increased cooler space to store his processed
products before they are delivered and other delivery equipment. Beartooth FADC assisted this business in
the development of an application for the ARPA funding through the Department of Agriculture. Their
application was not approved however they have developed a retail location in Hardin to sell their beef
products.
Primative Meats
Contact- Kelsey Grice
Location- Worden, MT
Kelsey Grice and her husband are looking for funding assistance through the GTA grant to help them with
construction costs and equipment for their start up meat processing business. This Business also applied
for an ARPA Value Added Ag Grant, Beartooth FADC put the business in contact with a local engineering
firm to discuss the plans for their plant. Their application was approved for $150,000.00, we will be touring
their location next month.
Business/ Project Name: Basin Inc
Contact- Judy Edwards
Location-Big Timber, MT
Basin Inc
Contact- Judy Edwards
Location – Big Timber, MT
The Hagerman family raises natural grass fed beef in Sweet Grass County and is developing a fresh beef
business that will add value to their beef production business. These products will be marketed as grass-
fed locally grown beef. Beartooth FADC is assisted this business with a successful USDA Value Added
Producer Grant application to help them expand their business to increase the number of animals
processed and sold in an effort to meet increased demand for local beef. Beartooth FADC assisted them
with developing a GTA application. Beartooth FADC will Follow up with this business.
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Yellowstone Valley Food Hub
Contact- Michelle Schahczenski
Location-Billings, MT
The Yellowstone Valley Food Hub is looking to expand their business and add space for aggregating locally
produced foods. Beartooth FADC assisted them with applying for a Growth Through Ag Grant that was
approved for $20,000.00 to expand. Beartooth FADC has reached out to follow up with this business and
determine any further needs; they are still working with the department of Ag on their GTA project and
have needed to change their initial project scope. The Department of Agriculture toured their facility in
April an Beartooth FADC has worked with them on a USDA LFPP grant that would h elp fund add staff and
expand their wholesale sales and deliveries.
406 Bovine LLC
Contact- Bryan Elliott
Location-Laurel, MT
406 Bovine LLC has worked with Beartooth staff and is nearing the commercialization and launch of his Ag
Tech product. Bryan Elliott has developed a facial recognition software that can be used on computer and
iphones to track livestock. He has produced a youtube video outlining his product that can be viewed via this
link. https://youtu.be/kTwkhUj9leA Beartooth will continue to assist this business as needed. Beartooth
FADC followed up with 406 Bovine to give them the updates on the status of state and federal funding
sources. Bryan had been granted investments from two entities that have developed funds specifically for
supporting new technologies such as facial recognition. He does have interest from a large Agricultural
business in investing in the business he is trying to raise 3- 5M in order to fully launch and commercialize
the product. Beartooth FADC also provided information on the USDA guaranteed loan programs that they
would be eligible for and did research on any food security programs available. Bryan has been touring
feedlots in Southern Texas Oklahoma and Kansas testing his app Beartooth FADC will be conducting follow
up visits with this business in May.
Stillwater Packing Co/ Emmett’s Meats
Contact- Jason Emmett
Location- Columbus, MT
Stillwater Packing has been working through an increase in business due to the supply chain bottlenecks
shifting some buyer interest to smaller plants like theirs. Beartooth FADC staff has visited the business to
discuss upcoming funding opportunities. We have visited about potential future funding needs, the
difficulties they are having with their incinerator and workforce, they are having a difficult time finding
workers. Beartooth has posted their job openings on our Facebook page and attempted to get in touch with
them to assist with their incinerator. Stillwater Packing was helpful in providing a tour of their facility to
Carbon County meats owners and discussing their process, equipment and layout.
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Pioneer Meats
Contact- Brian Engle
Location- Big Timber, MT
Pioneer Meats purchased another meat processing location in Big Timber that will allow them to process
wild meat at one location while expanding their beef, pork, bison and lamb processing at their main facility.
Beartooth FADC staff will continue to work with Pioneer to utilize any new funding opportunities in
completing their expansion; they received $50,000 from the Growth Through Ag grant and $150,000 from
the ARPA grant for its expansion of their new location.
Becky’s Berries- Absarokee, MT
Contact- Becky Stahl
Location-Absarokee
Becky has purchased a new commercial freezer needed to keep up with increased demand for her products
she said her business has been very busy this summer and fall. She has also recently was able to secure a
contract with western sugar to get bulk sugar for her operation increasing her efficiency and profitability with
a local product. Beartooth FADC has been working with Becky on a long range expansion plan, and she is
expanding her business to include a line of freeze dried berries.
Beartooth FADC initiated contact with the following businesses
Kathy Bauer- Roberts
North 40 Ag- Huntley
Justine Kougl- Huntley
Brett Clause- Columbus
Mac Dean- Red Lodge
Jen Brady and Jo Paloni- Billings, MT
Jessica Jane Hart Swift Buckets- Billings, MT
Agrika Foods- Billings, MT
Carbon County Watershed- Joliet, MT
Courtney Long- Red Lodge, MT
NuFood- Beartooth Region
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Montana Department of Ag Road Show Business Tour
Blue Creek Marbled Meats
Becky’s Berries
Grains of Montana
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Ranch House Meats
Economic Development Director Report for May 2022
4/19/2022
Economic Development/ CRDC
o EDA CARES Act – ends in June 2022
Deb Brown- watch parties and Bozeman Trail
Big Sky EDA- ERRT
Cushing Terrell-regional housing study is complete
o BSTF
Pea Cannery – 100% complete with High Plains Architect; closed out with BSTF
Stillwater County Industrial/Business Park Feasibility Study – KLJ held a kickoff
meeting; project continuing forward.
o ARPA – meetings continue to educate on funding opportunities
o USDA RCDI Grant – Big Horn County has decided to hire Tina Toyne as the Economic
Development Director
o CEDS-Myrna and I are working on the first draft.
o Reporting in April that is complete: EDA’s Partnership Planning Grant; 1st Quarter Report for
CRDC; BSTF Quarter Reports for 2 Projects; USDA RCDI 1st Quarter Report is the only
remaining report
o Red Lodge Housing Forum
o Helping Hands Food Bank in Hardin- DEQ Petroleum Brownfields Eligibility is approved;
Targeted Brownfields Assessment Request was submitted to EPA
o MEDA Spring Conference
Page 21
Frequently Used Acronyms
BEAR – Business Expansion and Retention
BIA – Bureau of Indian Affairs
BLM – Bureau of Land Management
BRCD – Beartooth RC&D
BSEDA – Big Sky Economic Development Association
BSTF – Big Sky Trust Fund
CDBG – Community Development Block Grant
CRDC – Certified Regional Development Corporation
CEDS – Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy
CTEP – Community Transportation Endowment Program
EDA – Economic Development Administration
EDD – Economic Development District
ESRI – Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc.
GIS – Geographic Information Systems
GPS – Global Positioning System
HOME – Montana Home Investment Partnerships Program
HUD – US Department of Housing and Urban Development
IRP – Intermediary Relending Program
LESA – Land Evaluation Site Assessment
MBI – Montana Board of Investments
MDOC – Montana Department of Commerce
MDOL – Montana Dept. of Labor
MDOT – Montana Dept. of Transportation
MDFWP – Montana Dept. of Fish, Wildlife and Parks
MEDA – Montana Economic Developers Association
NADO – National Association of Development Organizations
NCOC – National Carbon Offset Coalition
NHS – Neighborhood Housing Services
NRCS – Natural Resource Conservation Service
RBEG – Rural Business Enterprise Grant
RBOG – Rural Business Opportunity Grant
RC&D – Resource Conservation & Development Area, Inc.
RCDI – Rural Community Development Initiative
RD – Rural Development (a division of USDA)
RCPP- Regional Conservation Partnership Program
RLF – Revolving Loan Fund
RTA – Resource Team Assessment
SBA – Small Business Administration
SBDC – Small business Development Center
TIFD – Tax Increment Finance District
TSEP - Treasure State Endowment Program
USDA – United States Department of Agriculture
USFS – United States Forest Service