Why do you want to run for the study commission?

I am deeply committed to the importance, and potential, of local government. Local government plays a crucial role in shaping our daily lives, serving as the most immediate and accessible form of governance to each of us. Many decisions made at this level significantly impact our everyday experiences, and active citizen participation is crucial to ensure that our government effectively reflects and serves the needs of our community. At the local level, citizen involvement can make the crucial difference in having the appropriate needs of the community met, or not. I am running for local government study commissioner because I want to build a bridge between the feedback from the community and use this to inform, improve the effectiveness of our local government.

What skills and experience do you have that you think will help you in your role as a study commissioner?

My education and professional experience uniquely qualify me to contribute valuable insights to this commission. I hold a master’s degree in economics from Montana State University, which provided me with a comprehensive understanding of economic systems and honed my skills in methodical problem-solving, in-depth analysis, and data-driven decision-making.

Over the past 15 years, I have gained extensive experience in non-profits, grant management, small business development, and local government. I have held various roles, including program developer, grant manager, volunteer, and collaborator, and have interacted with a diverse range of local citizens, from homeless youth to small business owners. Having lived in this community for my entire adult life, I am deeply committed to enhancing the place many of us call home. 

Have you ever served in local government, either as an elected official or volunteered on an advisory board? If so, when and in what capacity?

I currently am employed by the Big Sky Resort Area District, a special purpose district of local government responsible for overseeing and managing the collection of resort taxes for the community of Big Sky. Our organization is governed by a board of five officials that are elected by the general electorate within the resort area district boundary.

Additionally, my entire professional career has been work in economic development, which results in constant collaboration with federal, state, and local governments, offering me a firsthand view of the bureaucratic systems that influence our lives.

Specifically, I have worked closely with the Gallatin County Commission for the last five years to develop and facilitate various programs to serve our community. I have seen the Commission’s budgeting process, decision-making process, and collaboration process. I have also worked with various local County staff to facilitate grant applications, obtain publicly available data, and understand processes related to future land use mapping, among other activities.

What would you hope to achieve if elected to serve as a study commissioner?

To start, I propose that the study commission interview current county officials and staff to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the existing structure. Additionally, the commission should develop a local engagement strategy to gather community expectations and address issues related to government functionality. This feedback should be used to inform the commission’s future decisions. Lastly, consulting with experts in Montana state local government law will be crucial for exploring legal options that could enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of Gallatin County’s government. I am committed to thoroughly listening and learning to ensure that the decisions made are well-informed. More specifically, I am particularly interested in exploring the advantages and disadvantages of electing certain positions versus having them appointed by the Commission. Additionally, I would like to understand how county-wide growth has affected our current government structure and work to identify opportunities for adaptation and increased efficiency while maintaining community feedback and involvement.

Bozeman Daily Chronicle Interview