Jeff Krauss
Response to GVS Questionnaire
Why do you want to run for the study commission?
The voters said it's time to study local government and I agree. Voters have trusted me in the past, and I want the conduct and results of the study to be credible and for the results to be acted on. The demographic and physical changes we see in Gallatin County should be considered in its form of government so that we have a highly representative and accountable local government that works for its residents and taxpayers..
What skills and experience do you have that you think will help you in your role as a study commissioner?
I worked for Gallatin County, as an employee, an elected official and as zoning commission Chairman. I understand bureaucracy, Montana local government law, and I know what it is to listen to the public while serving on boards and commissions. I’m a retired CPA with years of experience with local government finance and with audits of local government. I understand land use and private property issues. People know I’m a careful listener who considers all points of view.
My Government Resume includes:
Gallatin County Treasurer/Assessor; Chief Deputy Treasurer/Assessor; Accountant
Chairman, Gallatin County Zoning Board, 15 Zoning jurisdictions
Montana Council of County Elected Officials
Local Government Study Commission, City of Bozeman 1994-1996
Bozeman City Commissioner 2004-05, 2008-09, 2012-13, 2016-20
Bozeman Mayor 2006-7, 2010-11, 2014-15
Advisory board member, College of Technology of Great Falls in Bozeman and now Gallatin College, 2006-Current
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?
Please see my employment experience above.
What would you hope to achieve if elected to serve as a studycommissioner?
Gallatin County needs to have a county commission that represents the entire county, rural and urban. The direct democracy and accountability of elected Row Officers provide a familiar face when people navigate the rules and regulations of the state and county. The challenges to the county's law enforcement and the justice system need to be explored and anticipated.