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Great Falls Launches Strategic Investment Reserve for Future Growth

  //stocks-investing.news-articles.net/content/202 .. ategic-investment-reserve-for-future-growth.html
  Published in Stocks and Investing on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 10:46 GMT by krtv
      Locale: Montana, UNITED STATES

GREAT FALLS, MT - February 8th, 2026 - The City of Great Falls is embarking on a crucial initiative to proactively address long-term infrastructure and quality of life improvements. The Strategic Capital Investment Reserve (SCIR) program, recently announced by City Manager Greg Chilcott, is designed to move beyond reactive budgeting and towards a future-focused investment strategy. The city is now actively soliciting public feedback to ensure that resident priorities are at the heart of this program.

For years, Great Falls has faced the challenges common to many growing cities: aging infrastructure, increasing demands on public services, and the need to balance current budgetary needs with long-term sustainability. Traditionally, significant capital projects - those requiring substantial investment and offering lasting benefits - have been funded through a combination of annual budgeting, grants, and sometimes, bond measures. This approach, while functional, can often be unpredictable and delay critical improvements. The SCIR program represents a shift towards a more dedicated and reliable funding stream.

"This reserve isn't just about fixing what's broken," explains Chilcott. "It's about building a better Great Falls for generations to come. It's about proactively investing in projects that will enhance our quality of life, attract businesses, and ensure the long-term financial health of our city."

The core principle of the SCIR program is strategic investment in "significant in scope" projects. This means the city is looking beyond routine maintenance and focusing on initiatives that will have a tangible, lasting impact. Potential project areas could include - but aren't limited to - improvements to the city's water and sewer systems, upgrades to public parks and recreational facilities, enhancements to transportation infrastructure (roads, bridges, pathways), and investments in public safety resources. The program aims to shield these essential projects from the volatility of annual budgets, offering a consistent and predictable funding source.

Several factors are driving the need for such a program now. Increased construction costs, driven by supply chain issues and inflation, are making large-scale projects increasingly expensive. Competition for limited grant funding is fierce. And the reality is that delaying necessary infrastructure improvements only leads to more costly repairs down the line. The SCIR program acknowledges these realities and seeks to address them head-on.

The city is keen to emphasize the importance of public participation in shaping the program's direction. Residents have two key opportunities to voice their priorities.

First, an online survey is currently available at [ https://www.greatfallsmt.gov/1387/SCIR-Public-Survey ]. The survey asks residents to identify the city's most pressing needs and to prioritize potential capital projects. It also seeks input on how the city can best communicate progress and ensure transparency throughout the program. The survey will remain open until 5 p.m. on Friday, February 9th, offering a limited window for immediate input.

Second, a public forum will be held on Tuesday, February 13th, at 7 p.m. at City Hall. This forum will provide residents with a more detailed overview of the SCIR program, an opportunity to ask questions of city officials, and a platform to share their thoughts and ideas in a public setting. City planners anticipate a robust discussion and encourage all interested parties to attend.

Further information about the SCIR program, including frequently asked questions and a detailed explanation of the program's goals, can be found on the city's website at [ https://www.greatfallsmt.gov/1387/SCIR ]. The website also provides information on past capital projects and the city's long-term strategic plan, offering context for current investment priorities.

The launch of the SCIR program signals a proactive and fiscally responsible approach to city planning. By actively engaging residents in the decision-making process, Great Falls is ensuring that its future investments align with the needs and aspirations of the community. This isn't just about building infrastructure; it's about building a brighter future for all who call Great Falls home.