Billings City Council Advances Land Use Plan Through Multiple Review Rounds

The Billings City Council held a Special Work Session on Monday, July 13, 2026, followed by a Regular Business Meeting on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. These gatherings form part of the ongoing effort to advance the Billings 2045 land use plan and future land use map.

Background on Planning Process

The council reached this stage after the Billings 2045 plan had already undergone review in seven prior city council meetings that included opportunities for public input as of May 2026. That sequence of earlier meetings established the foundation for the decisions now under discussion in the July sessions. The process reflects the city's methodical approach to updating its long-term land use framework.

Recent Amendment Action

In July 2026 the council finalized a 2023 LRT amendment that updates the MO boundary. This action followed the pattern of incremental updates that began with the original 2023 document and continued through subsequent council consideration. The amendment directly informs the current work on the broader Billings 2045 plan.

Meeting Format and Access

All council meetings operate in a hybrid format that permits both in-person attendance and virtual participation through Zoom. Proceedings are broadcast on Community Seven TV on Channel 7 or 507 and are available through online streaming, allowing residents to follow developments without being physically present.

Public Comment Options

Residents may submit comments by mail to the City Clerk, by email received no later than 3:00 PM on the meeting day, or by attending meetings in person. These channels remain available for input on the land use plan and related items.

Next Scheduled Step

The Legislative and Local Affairs Committee is scheduled to meet on Monday, July 20, 2026. That meeting will continue the sequence of sessions that began with the July 13 and July 15 gatherings.