Steve White
Response to GVS Questionnaire
Why do you want to run for the study commission?
I was born and raised in the Gallatin Valley. I live west of Bozeman on land we have owned and farmed since 1899. After graduating from MSU, I worked as a hydrogeologist for DNRC, before starting a software company that I owned for 30 years. For 10 years I served on various county boards and committees, then served two terms as a Gallatin County Commissioner (2007-2018). With that, I am able to provide a rural ag perspective, as well as surface/ground water and technology.
What skills and experience do you have that you think will help you in your role as a study commissioner?
I have served Gallatin County citizens as one of their elected County Commissioners for 12 years. During that time I (and my fellow Commissioners) exercised our fiduciary duty in the management of county government, that included the county budget & finance, land use, subdivision applications, zoning decisions, employee issues and other important county decisions. In 1995-96, I participated in many of the county study commission meetings that were held.
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?
For 10 years I served on various county boards and committees, then served two terms as a Gallatin County Commissioner (2007-2018). During those 12 years as a Gallatin County Commissioner, I was able to interact with other County Commissioners across the state, through our state association. Those meetings and discussions provide a great foundation to assist in the study commission duties for Gallatin County.
What would you hope to achieve if elected to serve as a study commissioner?
The county government study review process is established in the Montana Constitution (Art XI), and limited to issues per Montana law (MCA Title 7). This is an important opportunity for Gallatin County citizens to become engaged in the process. There are limitations (per law) with the changes that can be proposed and considered. I would serve with no specific agenda. My focus is on citizen transparency and engagement, and would look forward to hearing from the public in monthly meetings held across the county regarding their concerns, suggestions and questions.