Filings begin in municipal elections
HEIDI DESCH | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 3 years, 5 months AGO
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. | May 9, 2023 12:00 AM
Several candidates have filed for upcoming municipal elections in Flathead County.
In Kalispell, four candidates so far have filed to run for City Council.
Incumbent Ryan Hunter is being challenged by Kevin Aurich in Ward 3. Two incumbents have also filed for reelection, Kari Gabriel in Ward 1 and Sid Daoud in Ward 4.
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. She was appointed to fill the position in January following the departure of the previous judge.
In Whitefish, Mayor John Muhlfeld has filed for reelection. He is seeking a fourth term.
Two incumbents, Frank Sweeney and Steve Qunell, are looking to retain their seats. Newcomer Nathan Dugan has filed for a spot on Council.
Incumbent Councilor Rebecca Norton has not yet filed for re-election.
Municipal Judge Caitlin Overland has filed for reelection. She began serving in the position in January 2022 following the death of the previous judge.
In Columbia Falls, one candidate so far has filed in the election. Darin Fisher is seeking to retain his spot on Council.
The seats held by Kelly Hamilton and John Piper are also up for election this year.
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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