After much thought about the city's direction lately and living here for 31 years, I have decided to run for Whitefish City Council. With our present economic conditions here, we need someone who has a business sense and ability to make some hard decisions for the local voters. We do not need more lawsuits — we need people who can solve problems and move on.

Growing up here with my wife and two boys for the last 31 years was a really good time. I have had several businesses here, helped my kids get through our school system — both public and private — and have volunteered in the community (i.e. five years on the school board and Smith Fields sports park caretaker). These experiences helped me understand the heart of our community.

Both my boys are now gone — working in the medical field at different levels. They are successful adults who "made it" with the help of their parents (family values), our school system and our churches (Presbyterian and Christ Lutheran).

I miss those times, but want the people of Whitefish to still have this ability. We have a special place here. We need reasonable growth, reasonable regulation, reasonable taxes and reasonable council members to run this city. I will listen to the voters.

I feel that I have these abilities and ask you to vote for me — Phil Mitchell. Please feel free to call me — I will listen. My phone number is 261-4495.

Phil Mitchell lives in Whitefish.