90-1-151. Main street program -- establishment -- purpose -- rulemaking. (1) There is a main street program in the department of commerce developed in conjunction with the main street program of the national trust for historic preservation.

(2) The purpose of the program is to:

(a) assist communities in restoring and retaining the historic character of their downtown areas and historic commercial districts;

(b) stimulate business investment, assist in retaining existing small businesses, and promote new businesses in those areas;

(c) strengthen the local tax base;

(d) create employment opportunities in community downtown areas and historic districts; and

(e) generally enhance the economic viability of downtown areas and historic districts.

(3) (a) The department of commerce may adopt rules governing the operation of the main street program.

(b) In developing the rules, the department shall consult with the national trust for historic preservation, provided for in 16 U.S.C. 468, to ensure that Montana's main street program is consistent with the main street program operated by the national trust for historic preservation.