Local candidates make election pitch at forum

Sanders County candidates for the offices of Justice of the Peace, County Commissioner District 1 and 2, and Clerk and Recorder/Treasurer/Superintendent of Schools came together at the Rex theater Thursday evening for a question-and-answer forum.

Each candidate was given 2 minutes for an introduction, and 2 minutes to answer questions from the moderator Annie Wooden, and 2 minutes for a rebuttal.

Judge Doug Dryden and Carl Marquardt had the first opportunity to speak about their qualifications for the position of Justice of the Peace. Dryden spoke about his extensive law enforcement experience and training. Marquardt spoke about his military experience and as a Court Clerk for Sanders County as well as his goal of receiving his master’s degree in criminal justice.

One of moderator Wooden’s questions asked how the candidates would collect fines if an individual couldn’t afford to pay them? Dryden spoke about his continuing efforts to work with the public that appear before his court, that would be suitable for both sides. Marquardt said that in some cases, in lieu of fines, the individual could do community service.

Dryden said if reelected, he would continue to use common sense in his responsibilities in his duties as a Judge. Marquardt said, in his rebuttal, that he would bring a positive attitude with the position.

The candidates for the position of clerk and recorder were the next in line to answer questions. Current Clerk and Recorder Nichol Scribner perviously worked as a pharmacy technician and med management for long-term care facilities in Missoula. She was appointed Clerk and Recorder in 2013.

Candidate Kathleen French said that she believes in a responsible government and that she would work with the office personnel to bring unity within the department.

The four candidates for county commissioner district 1 and 2, were the last to answer questions from the moderator. Dan Rowan, candidate for district 1, was the first to speak about his past experiences as mayor of Plains. He said that he was able to keep a balance budget while mayor and managed extensive projects during his duties there. Rowan also said that he was the only candidate who has experience as a public administrator.

Candidate Adam Bache for district 1 spoke about his experiences in the private sector with a large corporation, and how he will bring his skills to Sanders County.

District 2 candidate, John Holland spoke about his past experiences as the Plains Fire Chief, Plains school board chairman and his 30 years working for the Montana Department of Transportation. Holland said if he was elected that he would look at all sides of the issues to make decisions that would work for everyone.

Candidate Mahlon Lee, in his opening statement, talked about his experiences as a rancher and managing his roofing business in Hot Springs. Lee also stressed about the need to work together as commissioners and the need to put pride away to make things work. Lee also commented that he would work 24/7 to make it happen.

[Editor's Note: This story has been updated to correct Sanders County Clerk and Recorder Nichol Scribner's pervious work experience.]