CANDIDATE PROFILE - Wallace City Council Seat 1, Katie Watterson

- Full name and age  

Katie Watterson, 50 

- Education  

Degree in Sociology from the University of Montana, having graduated at the top of her class with an emphasis on rural and environmental change. 

- A brief description of your immediate family     

Along with two adult children, two teenage boys, two sheep dogs, and husband of 23 years, I have called Wallace home for the past 10 years. 

- Notable/relevant achievements or experience   

As a local business owner, operating the Historic Metals Bar and creating the Wallace Wellness Center, I understand the struggles of carving out a living in the current tourist-based economy, but I also see opportunities for the city to promote other means of economic vitality. I currently serve as the Exalted Ruler (president) of the Wallace Elks Lodge, one of Wallace’s most crucial community resources. I have volunteered time at the Wallace Photo Museum Spring Galas, as well as cooking lunches for the Wallace Gyro Club. I was one of the first female members of the Wallace Elks Drum and Bugle Corps and have appeared in many parades as the heartbeat of the bass drum. I plan to devote a lot of time and energy to building relationships through this important position. 

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

I have served my community as a past commissioner on the Planning and Zoning board, as well as one of the founding members and former president of the Wallace Music Fest, the group that helped save the last-minute failure of Wallace’s mid-summer music fest. 

- What is your main priority if you are elected?    

A mother of four, Katie, hopes to serve her community by promoting and investing in youth, and a small business owner striving to empower small businesses through her passion for community service and strengthening Wallace through her ability to foster connections while bringing people together, working towards common visions & goals.