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More candidates file in city elections

HEIDI DESCH | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 3 years, 1 month AGO
by HEIDI DESCH
DEPUTY EDITOR, FEATURES Heidi Desch is the Deputy Editor at the Daily Inter Lake, overseeing coverage of arts, culture, lifestyle, community, and business. Desch leads reporters in developing stories that highlight the people, traditions, and events shaping Northwest Montana, guiding content across print and digital platforms. With more than 20 years of journalism experience, including serving as managing editor of the Whitefish Pilot, Desch is a graduate of the University of Montana School of Journalism. She has received multiple Montana Newspaper Association awards, including part of the team leading the Daily Inter Lake to Best Daily Newspaper in Montana Award and the General Excellence Award in 2024 and 2025. IMPACT: Heidi’s work connects readers with stories that deepen the understanding of the community beyond daily news. | June 7, 2023 12:00 AM

Additional candidates have entered races for upcoming municipal elections in Flathead County.

In Whitefish, a crowded ballot is shaping up with six candidates so far running for City Council.

All three incumbents, Frank Sweeney, Steve Qunell and Rebecca Norton, have filed looking to retain their seats. They are being challenged by candidates Nathan Dugan, James Ramlow and Nancy Schuber.

Municipal Judge Caitlin Overland has filed for reelection.

Mayor John Muhlfeld has also filed for reelection seeking a fourth term.

Three candidates have filed to run for Columbia Falls City Council. Incumbents Darin Fisher and John Piper are both seeking reelection, while Kathryn Price has also filed to run.

In Kalispell, the candidate list remains unchanged since early May.

Incumbents Kari Gabriel in Ward 1, Sid Daoud in Ward 4 and Ryan Hunter in Ward 3 have all filed. Challenger Kevin Aurich has also filed in Ward 3.

No candidates have filed for the Ward 2 spot currently held by Sam Nunnally.

Municipal Judge Alison Howard is running to retain her seat on the bench in Kalispell.

The last day for candidates to file for the Nov. 7 election is June 19.

Features Editor Heidi Desch may be reached at 758-4421 or [email protected].

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