Abell to lead Flathead County commissioners
HANNAH SHIELDS | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 8 months, 4 weeks AGO
County commissioner candidate Brad Abell (Casey Kreider/Daily Inter Lake)
RURAL GOVERNMENT REPORTER, REPORT FOR AMERICA Hannah Shields covers rural government and accountability reporting for the Daily Inter Lake and Northwest Montana weekly papers as part of the national Report for America program. Her reporting focuses on transparency, public spending and the impact of local government decisions on small communities. Shields has covered issues ranging from school district finances to development disputes and rural infrastructure projects. She regularly uses public records and investigative reporting to examine institutions that affect local residents. Her work helps bring greater oversight and visibility to rural government across Northwest Montana. IMPACT: Hannah’s work strengthens transparency and accountability in rural communities that often lack consistent watchdog coverage. | January 6, 2026 11:00 PM
Flathead County Commissioner Brad Abell was unanimously voted as the new chair of the three-member commission Tuesday morning.
The three commissioners historically rotate positions at the beginning of each year, selecting a new chair and vice chair during the first meeting in January. The chair oversees county policies, leads county commissioner meetings, sets appropriations and determines levies for county funds and rural improvement districts.
Abell replaced Commissioner Pamela Holmquist, who served as chair in 2025. Both Abell and Commissioner Randy Brodehl, who replaces Abell as the vice chair, thanked Holmquist for her year of service.
The county commission functions as both the executive and legislative branch for Flathead County, consisting of three elected commissioners who serve six-year terms.
Abell was elected in 2020 and represents District 1 in the northern part of the county.
Reporter Hannah Shields can be reached at 758-4439 or [email protected].
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