Letters to the editor April 26

Time for new leadership

I am writing in response to the April 9 letter “Moms for Heino.” I am wondering if the author read Evie Cahalen’s four page resume? I have. Cahalen is more than qualified and ready to serve on day one. 

She will be proactive to the needs of our valley. Her past education, professional experience and board positions are what we need for a well rounded sheriff’s office that will keep our children and community safe.

After watching years of Flathead County sheriff races, I have seen how difficult it is for an outsider to break through a closed system. Flathead County is growing, and with that growth comes new challenges. It’s time to bring in fresh leadership focused on strengthening public safety and protecting our families. 

If you want real change and a safer future for our children, take a look at her qualifications and vision.

— Heidi Roedel, Kalispell

Professionalism on display

I would like to take a moment to recognize the outstanding response and professionalism demonstrated by Flathead County Sheriff Brian Heino, his deputies and Glacier Park International Airport staff during an incident on Friday, April 17.

After a passenger — who appeared to be intoxicated — was informed he would not be allowed to fly, he became upset and made alarming remarks while exiting the aircraft. Out of an abundance of caution, all passengers were required to deplane, re-clear security and wait while the aircraft and luggage were thoroughly inspected.

While the situation was certainly inconvenient, it was handled with impressive efficiency and care. Heino’s deputies and airport personnel, including Deputy Airport Director Ian McCay, responded quickly and clearly demonstrated a high level of training and preparedness. Their calm, organized approach ensured the safety of everyone involved.

I was especially appreciative of the K-9 program that Heino has implemented. The use of the K-9 unit helped expedite the inspection process, and I have no doubt the delay would have been significantly longer without it. One of the deputies even took time to speak with my two daughters and gave them trading cards of Kona, the K-9 officer who assisted in the search — an act of kindness they won’t soon forget.

Incidents like this may be rare in the Flathead, but it is reassuring to know that our local law enforcement and airport staff are well-prepared when they do occur. Their professionalism and dedication to public safety deserve recognition.

— Toby Liechti, Lakeside

Impressed by Sprunger

Please join me in supporting my friend, Republican Courtenay Sprunger for House District 7 in the upcoming primary election. 

I want to thank Sprunger for her hard work on DEQ and planning legislation during her time in the Montana House. I have really enjoyed working with her over the last few legislative sessions. Her commitment to cutting red tape in an effort to provide more housing options to Montana is something we should all admire. 

As the current chair of the Flathead County Planning Board, I share her passion for providing more housing supply and housing options for Flathead County and the people of Montana. 

Courtenay is very approachable and easy to contact and always considers comments from her constituents seriously. Courtenay gets things done in the legislature and works tirelessly to get good bills across the finish. Please join me in supporting Courtenay Sprunger in the primary election for House District 7.

— Jeff Larsen, Lakeside

Sterling ready to lead

I am pleased to endorse Sheena Sterling for Flathead County Clerk and Recorder.

Through my work at First Title of Montana, I have worked with Sheena for many years and understand how important the Clerk and Recorder’s Office is to the people of Flathead County.

The work done in that office affects far more than records alone, it impacts property rights, real estate transactions, tax matters, public access to information and the overall confidence people have in their local government.

That is why experience matters so much in this race. Sheena brings not only years of service, but also a strong understanding of the many functions within the Clerk and Recorder’s Office. She knows how the different divisions work together and how decisions made there affect taxpayers, property owners, title professionals, surveyors and the public as a whole. From my perspective, that kind of complete understanding is invaluable.

Sheena is knowledgeable, capable and prepared to lead from day one. She understands both the technical side of the office and the public trust that comes with maintaining and preserving county records accurately and responsibly.

Flathead County will be best served by someone who truly knows this work and understands its importance to the community. I believe Sheena Sterling is the right choice for Clerk and Recorder, and I am proud to support her.

— Jessica Elliott, Kalispell