Magill files to run for Libby City Council, field grows to five

Assistant Election Administrator Leigh Riggleman is counting down the remaining two days until the June 27 deadline to file as a candidate in the upcoming city election.

Another name was thrown into the ring Friday as Arlen Magill submitted paperwork to run for City Council. Five candidates are running for three open seats on the City Council, although others may enter the race before the deadline.

Candidates so far include incumbents Robin Benson, Barbara Desch and Vicki Lawrence, as well as challengers Magill and Mike Shock.

Magill has set his sights on the seat with an candid take on the status of his hometown.

“What matters the most to me isn’t even Libby, it’s our families,” Magill said during a phone interview. “Everyone from kids to the elders. It’s really sad people have to graduate high school and find work outside of town to support their family here.”

The Bureau of Labor Statistics recorded the unemployment rate at 13.5 percent in 2012 in Lincoln County. 

It seems clear, Magill is on a line to bring what he believes his community needs now more than ever; jobs. Magill believes convincing companies such as Buck Knives and Burlington Northern-Sante Fe Railway to invest in Libby would be the most efficient vehicle to deliver jobs and spur competition toward further economic growth.

“We have the workforce. So many people are willing,” Magill said.

Magill said, if elected, he would have an open-door policy with the public, encouraging the community to participate in local policy. He said government transparency would be one of his priorities. Punctuating his stance with positivity, he commended the new community garden with the great work done so far by those involved.  

If seven or more people file for City Council, a primary election must be held prior to the city’s general election in November.