Gary Beach, Libby City Council

In anticipation of the November municipal election, The Western News sent questionnaires to all Libby and Troy candidates. Each candidate received the same questions and word limits. Libby City council candidate responses will appear in alphabetical order in subsequent issues of The Western News. Responses submitted by mayoral candidates will appear in separate issues. Answers may be edited for brevity and clarity.

Info Box:

What is your occupation?

Service manager at Timberline Auto

What is your age?

45

How long have you lived in Libby?

My grand parents moved to Libby in the '60s to work on the dam. When my father retired from the military, we moved here in 1989.

What community organizations are you involved in?

Interview Questions:

What aspects of your background and experience would you draw on if elected?

I have much to offer in the way of diversity of experience and profession in that I have worked in several industries (construction, emergency response, and semiconductor) in the capacities to include staffing, construction, budget management, emergency management, project management and personnel management. Within these industries, I have had the opportunity to learn human resource policies, procedures and the protocol necessary to enforce them ethically and without liability. I have sharpened my organizational skills, attention to detail, and my ability to work with speed and accuracy.

In my past and current positions, I have gained experience in research, writing reports, working with budgets, administrating grants, and much more. Combine all this experience with my natural talents (i.e., writing, aesthetics, analytical problem solving, logistical planning and research) and with my work ethic, you have a well-rounded candidate you will be proud to have on your staff.

What infrastructure projects would you prioritize during your term?

I would like to continue working on the budget and sewer / water committees to come up with creative ways to leverage our seed monies to develop projects that do not raise rates. We recently updated our preliminary engineering reports which allowed us to apply for grants for the recent water project with minimal impact to city coffers. Taking a proactive approach and using our limited funds to seed sewer and water projects on a biannual term rather than a reactive approach that forces us to take loans.

What policies would you pursue to make Libby more attractive to businesses and employers?

I would continue to pursue a collaboration between officials (city and county), businesses and the local economic development groups (Libby Chamber of Commerce, Libby Business Association, and Kootenai River Development Council). Open communication and an eagerness to work together will go far in fostering positive relationships and attracting the kind of industries and companies that our community wants.