Billings Daily Digest Thursday, May 21, 2026
Ty's Take
That data center north of Billings is going to be the defining conversation around here for the next couple years, whether folks realize it yet or not. Two massive gas power plants to juice a facility that'll sit out there in Broadview—that's not just another development project, it's a bet on what Billings becomes. The energy industry around here knows what it means. The water folks know. The ranchers watching their drought disaster designations pile up know. You can build something that changes the skyline and the tax base, or you can build something that changes how the whole region thinks about itself. We'll be sorting through both versions of that conversation before this is done.
Sponsor Slot AvailableReach Billings Locals Every MorningGet your business in front of engaged local readers. Boat dealers, realtors, restaurants, contractors, home services your audience is reading this right now.Become a Sponsor
Billings Gazette
Helena-Lewis and Clark County 911 dispatch center running low on funds, could need levy
The Helena-Lewis and Clark County 911 dispatch center faces a budget shortfall and may need to seek voter approval for a levy to continue operations. Officials are exploring funding options to keep the critical emergency services center running.
Billings neighbors: Obituaries for May 21
This collection features obituaries of deceased Billings-area residents published on May 21, honoring their lives and contributions to the community.
New job postings for Billings job seekers
Local employers in Billings are actively hiring across various sectors, offering job seekers current opportunities in the region's workforce.
May 20 recap: Billings news you may have missed today
A daily news roundup highlights significant stories and events from May 20 in the Billings area that readers may have missed.
Man accused of plotting to kill Missoula abortion doctor plans mental disorder defense
A man charged with plotting to kill a Missoula abortion provider plans to use a mental health defense in his case. The defendant's legal strategy will likely center on his mental state at the time of the alleged crime.
Emails: Massive gas power plants planned north of Billings for Broadview data center
Documents reveal plans for large-scale natural gas power plants north of Billings to support a data center development in Broadview. The project would bring significant industrial infrastructure to the region.
Video: Data center presentation in Missoula
A video presentation details plans for a major data center project being considered in the Missoula area.
Water is the lifeblood of ranching in Montana
Montana ranchers depend on reliable water access as the essential resource for their livestock and agricultural operations. The article explores the critical role water plays in the state's ranching economy.
USDA designates drought disaster areas in Montana
The USDA has officially declared drought disaster areas across Montana, making affected regions eligible for federal assistance. The designation helps farmers and ranchers access relief programs during the dry conditions.
Weather suspends NAIA women’s golf opener
Bad weather forced the postponement of a NAIA women's golf tournament opener in the area. The event will be rescheduled once conditions improve.
Rural News Wire is a daily local news digest for Billings and rural America. We aggregate and curate, original reporting belongs to the sources linked above. Support local journalism by visiting their sites.
Subscribe free to get this digest in your inbox every morning.