Alicia Ryan, executive director of the Helena Business Improvement District, briefed commissioners on the BID’s recent work and priorities for 2026, and the Parking Advisory Committee recommended routing business‑sponsored free parking through merchant validation rather than a city‑funded free‑parking program.

Ryan told the commission the BID funds itself through a special property assessment on buildings in the BID district and that trustees are primarily building owners or their representatives. The BID reported 15 event grants last year, a photography program that produced images for 64 downtown businesses, façade and new‑business grants, and safety initiatives that trained 74 volunteers and certified 10 in CPR. Ryan said the BID will continue seasonal decorations and maintenance work, coordinate with the Chamber on wayfinding for the Heritage Center and downtown, and has been working with parks staff on plans for a public restroom in Constitution Park.

Julie Gustafson, Parking Advisory Committee chair, told the commission the committee did not recommend the city fund free holiday parking at this time and suggested merchant validation through the Passport app as an alternative so private groups or the chamber can offer free parking without drawing city subsidy. Staff said the chamber had submitted an amended proposal increasing outreach and mapping to promote available two‑hour parking and other options; staff will continue to work with the chamber on implementation details.

Commissioners asked about the parking survey and how downtown users engage with curb space; staff said survey results and additional parcel‑level mapping will inform any future proposals. No formal action was taken; staff will continue conversations with the BID and chamber.