LOCAL MOMENTUM: Conference Recap
Strong communities don’t stand still and neither did the 94th Annual Montana League of Cities and Towns Conference. With the theme LOCAL MOMENTUM, more than 400 local leaders from every corner of Montana gathered in Billings for three days of learning, collaboration, and celebration of the work that drives our cities and towns forward.
Keynote: Lessons for Today from the Wild West
The conference opened with an inspiring keynote from Michael Punke, best-selling author of The Revenant and Ridgeline. Drawing from the grit and resilience of the American West, Michael reminded us that local leadership has always been where real momentum begins. Attendees received a complimentary copy of Ridgeline and had the chance to meet the Michael during a post-keynote book signing. Our appreciation goes out to the Joe Menicucci Municipal Education Program for sponsoring Michael’s impactful talk.
Breakout Sessions and Peer-to-Peer Networking
This year’s program offered a robust mix of breakout sessions and peer-to-peer networking opportunities, covering the topics most relevant to Montana’s municipalities from affordable housing and infrastructure funding to AI in local government, emergency preparedness, and community engagement. Local leaders also connected directly with state and federal partners to learn about new programs and resources.
Our Partners and Exhibitors
The array of exhibitors was once again a highlight of the conference, with municipal leaders exploring new products, tools, and services designed to strengthen operations and enhance quality of life in their hometowns. The League extends its sincere thanks to the exhibitors and partners whose support and expertise make this event possible each year.
Evening Socials in Downtown Billings
Networking extended beyond the conference halls, starting with the President’s Reception at the Yellowstone Art Museum, where attendees enjoyed local art, hors d’oeuvres, and a warm welcome from Billings Mayor Bill Cole and League Board President Mayor Russ Nelson of Belgrade. The following night, the Historic Billings Depot came alive with live music and great food in a true celebration of the community spirit that defines the League.
Honoring 47 Years of Service: Gus Byrom
One of the most meaningful moments of the conference came during Friday’s luncheon, when the League presented the Alec Hansen Lifetime Achievement Award to Gus Byrom honoring his remarkable 47-year career dedicated to Montana’s communities.
Gus’s work has strengthened local governments across the state, from his early days as a city planner in Helena and Lewis & Clark County to his 38 years with the Montana Department of Commerce, where he guided communities through complex challenges with patience, wisdom, and compassion. His career exemplifies what LOCAL MOMENTUM truly means, helping local governments build capacity, improve infrastructure, and access the resources they need to serve their citizens.
Looking Ahead
From breakout sessions to hallway conversations, the 94th Annual Conference captured the collaboration, innovation, and heart that fuel Montana’s local governments. Thank you to everyone who joined us in Billings. To our attendees, partners, exhibitors, and presenters, thank you for helping keep Montana’s LOCAL MOMENTUM strong.
We can’t wait to see you next year for the 95th Annual Conference taking place October 7th through the 9th of 2026 in Helena at the Delta Hotel.