1. To Whom It May Concern,
The Missoula Building Industry Association is proud to represent a multitude of diverse businesses that
make up the building industry in and around Missoula. Those not involved with MBIA may not be aware
that our membership includes a wide array of businesses, including vendors, architects, engineers,
subcontractors, banks, insurance agencies, title companies, and even other non-profit associations. By the
nature of our association, builders are our foundation, including some who primarily engage in new
construction and others whose primary craft is remodeling existing structures.
The future of the Missoula Mercantile building in downtown Missoula has emerged as a “hot button” issue
for our community in recent weeks, following the announcement of HomeBase Montana’s proposal to
redevelop the site. Because of the diverse nature of MBIA membership, weighing the financial impact
within our industry of renovation versus redevelopment has not been a significant factor. Either type of
project has the potential to provide employment and income for those who work in and are associated with
the construction industry.
Accordingly, MBIA’s evaluation of the two options facing the Mercantile building is based on broader
considerations. The primary consideration is the economic impact on Missoula as a whole. A vibrant,
active downtown is a crucial resource for Missoula. The restaurants, shops and other businesses, and
ultimately the city as a whole, benefit from the revenue and improved tax base when our downtown area is
enjoyed by our citizens and chosen as a destination by visitors. Unfortunately, the downtown corner
occupied by the Mercantile building has stood vacant for six years now, awaiting an owner or developer
with the vision and financial means to restore the structure and retain its full historic significance. Rather
than serving as a source of revenue and adding to the vivacity of downtown, the vacant structure is currently
an economic void and its deterioration detracts from the aesthetic appeal of downtown.
After a substantial passage of time, it has become apparent that preserving the Mercantile building is
unfeasible. An owner or a developer with a viable plan for restoration has not materialized. The further
passage of time will only contribute to the continued deterioration of the building and prolong the economic
stagnation of the parcel. The proposed redevelopment, including a hotel in close proximity to several live
entertainment venues, restaurants, bars, shops, and the university, would become the headwaters for a new
river of revenue that would flow throughout downtown and beyond. As such, MBIA joins with Mayor
Engen, the Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Business Improvement District of Missoula, Missoula
Downtown Association and others in support of moving forward with a plan to redevelop the Mercantile
building.
The completed project should reflect integrity with the architecture and design of downtown Missoula, and
incorporate historic elements of the Mercantile building where reasonable. MBIA also urges HomeBase
Montana and others involved in the redevelopment to maximize the use of local labor and prioritize
utilization of materials and services provided by local businesses. The responsibility of redeveloping a
building with an important place in the history of Missoula should carry with it the obligation of ensuring
that it is primarily Missoulians whose labor and materials make it happen.
Sincerely,
Doug Cook
Executive Officer,
on behalf of
Missoula Building Industry Association