With a strong background and a faith in the future, B&B Builders, Inc. continues to build Sidney and the surrounding area. Roger and Don Byer moved to Sidney in 1981 when the area was booming. One year later, things had slowed way down but the brothers stayed and eventually turned B&B Builders into a major construction company and developer.
The first subdivision completed by B&B was the 15 acre parcel off Holly northwest of Sidney in 2011. Continental Resources and Crescent Electric Supply own businesses there while HD Supply and Jaguar Energy Services have long-term leases.
Because of their past experience working with B&B, Continental Resources called them looking for 1 or 2 lots in the new subdivision. "We worked together on the design and went forward from there," Roger stated. Continental also has plans for more development as well.
Crescent, HD and Jaguar are large companies which have chosen to expand to Sidney. Crescent Electric Supply opened their 8th Montana location in Sidney in April of 2013. They are in the top 10 largest electric supply distributors nationwide. Jaguar Energy Services, an industry leader in flowback and well testing, expanded to Sidney from Crowley, LA. "They're the nicest folks you'll ever meet," Roger said. They have 12 to 20 guys who work out of their base in Sidney. Most of the time those workers are in the field but they are struggling to find permanent housing in Sidney.
HD Supply is the 4th and final business to locate in the subdivision. They provide electrical supplies for residential to industrial use.
"These companies are excited to be here. We needed them and what they supply. They are now a permanent fixture, paying taxes, bringing well paid jobs with benefits which in turn benefits the area's economy. They see lots of opportunity now and in the future. They are here for the long term." Roger said.
Downtown Sidney has been improved by the purchase of the JC Penney, J'z Fashion Threadz and Trading Post buildings by B&B Builders Inc. Renovations such as the new sidewalk by Penneys and the facelift at the Trading Post continue to take place. "Even with all our contacts, we have to wait for things to get done too," Roger said.
South of town, another parcel has been developed with part of it sold to Northwest Pipe. "They're a plumbing supply company and nice neighbors to have. We've been needing them in this area a long time. They're a great group to work with." Roger said.
The other part of the development consists of B&B Trailer Sales & Service and B&B Steel Buildings.
B&B Trailer Sales & Service opened in late October of 2013 with Mark Brodhead as manager. The company sells and services flatbed, utility, ATV, gooseneck and enclosed trailers by such brand names as B-B Trailers, Haulmark and P.J. Trailers. They also feature a complete repair and service department and carry an extensive line of parts and accessories. B&B Trailer Sales and Service is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 9a.m. to 1 p.m. Call the office at 406-433-1888 or Mark at 406-480-7332.
B&B Steel Buildings is the new home for Chief Steel Buildings and Butler Steel Buildings. B&B Builders, Inc. has been a dealer for those buildings, but the new space, with manager Jim Bell, provides a comfortable buying experience for the customers. The company provides a full line of options from agricultural buildings to commercial and retail. B&B Steel Buildings offers everything from excavation to completion, or they can supply the materials and clients can arrange for their own construction. Design options are also available, with professional assistance to ensure the structure fits the needs of the buyer. B&B Steel Buildings is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call them at 406-433-1888 or Jim at 406-480-7249.
Conoco Phillips and Wilson also lease properties on CR 350 from B&B. "These are long-term, stable companies who were here during the last boom and came back when things picked up."
B&Bs latest venture started with the purchase of 69 acres from Hank and Bev Stip. The property south of Sidney is now being developed, with the sewer already in and gravel being put in for the new paved road through the property. Unknown issues have caused some problems, but B&B should have final approval to sell lots before the end of the year. Several entities are already looking at some of the 16 industrial lots available. B&B plans to break ground on several projects for tentative buyers as soon as weather permits. By the time the buildings are done, the infrastructure will be in place. Roger said, "Our goal as developer is to sell the land. B&B Builders would be more than happy to construct buildings to go with that land."
Next fall, a 34 space trailer court will also be ready for occupancy. All industrial and trailer parcels are being sold by Beagle Properties. Anyone interested is encouraged to call them at 406-482-4480.
Byers appreciate the support of the community throughout their various developments. "We have made a multi-million dollar investment in Sidney with this development. Stockman Bank has been with us and beside us in our ventures of development in Richland County and Sidney for the last 25 years. This is our biggest venture with them so far and it's working extremely well," Roger said.
Roger is pragmatic about the development process in Richland County. "The development process is extremely painful," he said. "But, in the world of development and for the betterment of everyone involved, especially the future owners, the process may be necessary. Everyone does their best to move forward on these projects. It's not just local, but state regulations that must also be followed." B&B's northwest subdivision was the first minor subdivision approved in Sidney since the early 80s. It was fairly easy. Now the rules have changed. They're much more defined.
Byers are very optimistic about the future of Sidney and the surrounding area. "We needed a change of mindset – an appreciation of what the community can do together. We need everyone involved to make these things work. We need the community to welcome new businesses, just like they welcomed us in '81. So far, they seem to be."
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