CANDIDATE PROFILE - Wallace City Council, Seat 1, Courtney Frieh

- Full name and age  

Courtney Frieh, 51 

- Education  

UC Davis, Bachelor of Arts with High Honors in Classical Civilizations, University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, Juris Doctor 

- A brief description of your immediate family     

I am part of a large, closeknit Greek family. My immediate family includes my mother, sister, brother, and nephews, as well as two surrogate uncles, Wayne “Sano” Haldi and Dick Caron. 

- Notable/relevant achievements or experience   

Architect of Wallace Mountain Overlay — a special zoning district adopted by Shoshone County and Wallace that adds regulations to the Wallace mountains to preserve their natural beauty and maintain public health and safety; 2024 Wallace Chamber of Commerce “Citizen of the Year” — for my work on the mountain overlay; Co-founder of the Wallace Ski Jor Festival — to boost Wallace’s winter economy; Co-founder of the Barnard Stockbridge Photography Museum — to preserve Wallace’s colorful history; Grant recipient for educational signage at Samuels Park 

- What is your background and/or relevant experience for the position you are running for?    

Planning and Zoning Attorney since 2007; Elected Board Member, East Shoshone County Water District (2025 - Present) — protecting water sources and infrastructure; Wallace Planning & Zoning Vice-Chair and Commissioner (2020–2024) — upholding Historic Code and making tough but fair decisions; Volunteer at the Wallace Mining Museum and Wallace Flower Project for many years 

- What is your main priority if you are elected?    

For ten years, I’ve worked to protect Wallace’s authenticity, historic charm, and natural beauty. My main priority is to continue to safeguard what makes Wallace special while planning for its future. I’ll work to find balance between growth and preservation, tourism and local needs, and development and our scenic mountain beauty. By promoting transparency and thoughtful planning, we can keep Wallace’s small-town charm intact while ensuring a thriving future for everyone. 

- What do you believe are the key issues associated with the position?    

Key issues include preserving Wallace’s historic charm, managing growth responsibly, protecting natural landscapes, ensuring transparent governance, and enhancing the quality of life. Priorities are revitalizing downtown, supporting small businesses, guiding development to fit community values, and addressing traffic, noise, and parking—while fostering trust through open meetings and public input. 

- Have you been endorsed by any people or groups?   

I have not actively sought any endorsements. Endorsements tend to create an “us versus them” mentality. I seek to represent everyone equally.