How you can help
Many of you have reached out asking how you can help. Below is a directory of officials you can contact to voice your concerns. Maintaining consistent pressure is vital; please email, call, or write to our representatives. While previous appeals have often gone unanswered, we must show that our community remains steadfast and will not be silenced.
Additionally, locally owned businesses are displaying signs and stickers in their windows, making it easy to identify and support the local partners standing with us.
A GoFundMe has been established to support legal fees and assist businesses affected by these abrupt contract changes.
Organized by Erin Leonard, this GoFundMe initiative directly supports the legal injunction needed to protect our local businesses. Under newly issued state contracts, Virginia City concessionaires are facing unsustainable rent increases—up to 15% of gross revenue—for seasonal operations that only last 3 to 4 months. For beloved landmarks such as Bob’s Place and the Wells Fargo building, these costs are simply unfeasible.
This legal effort is about protecting local jobs and reaching a fair solution that preserves Virginia City as a living historic town. Your contribution provides the critical resources needed to stand up for our community, our workers, and the future of this historic place.
Montana Department of Commerce
Marta Bertoglio, Director of Department of Commerce
marta.bertoglio@mt.gov
Mandy Rambo, Deputy Director
mandy.rambo@mt.gov
Contact Governor Greg Gianforte
Contact the Montana Heritage Commission
Montana Heritage Commission
P.O. Box 338
Virginia City, MT 59755
Phone: 406-843-5247
Email: mhc@mt.gov
https://commerce.mt.gov/Contact/