The upcoming municipal election for Kalispell’s third ward is a three-way competition. Each candidate comes with a unique flavor of sensibility, experience, leadership, and commitment to the development of our community. Here is a brief overview of your options this year.

Incumbent council member Rod Kuntz was appointed to the post last year with his strongest support coming from councilors Graham and Kluesner, along with Mayor Johnson. He took on pawn shop reform and also designed the current policies for westside parking. Expressing satisfaction with the city’s laws and the council’s overarching vision for the future, Rod is for whom you should vote if you feel content about local leadership and don’t want to risk someone new rocking the boat.

Karlene Osorio-Khor is the challenger who would make a better delegate. She knows the community well, has a history of serving the public both in and out of government, and helps manage a company with land here in town. Endorsed by retired council member Bob Hafferman and given a vote of confidence from council member Guiffrida last year, Karlene envisions a Kalispell friendlier to businesses and family values. She wants new reforms for westside parking, improvements to transportation infrastructure, would do away with parking fines, and pledges not to raise taxes. This candidate is a solid choice if you want a leader who keeps in close contact with constituents, knows about long-standing issues in the downtown area, and grounds her proposals to change local policies in conventional wisdom.

I would instead be a trustee — welcoming input from people but staying true to personal principles and knowledge gained from years of studies in political science. An outsider and eccentric of sorts, I show openmindedness on controversial issues, love to tinker with new ideas, and tend to question traditions. In comparison to the other candidates I am more withdrawn from the public but make up for this with empathy, compassion, and deep-rooted fondness for individualism.

Retired councilor Kenyon endorses me, as does Cheryl Wolfe, a candidate for the Montana Senate a few years ago. Political positions of mine can be viewed at http://redalgo.weebly.com/c-m-c-cunningham.html. They reveal a blend of moderate and radical considerations. Your consideration would be much appreciated.

Regardless of to whom you pledge your ballot, please go to the polling stations to ensure your voice is heard. Turnout is typically very low for these kinds of elections. Don’t let a handful of fellow residents make this decision on your behalf! —Chris Cunningham, Kalispell