Tourism potential important to mayoral candidate
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Editor,
Hello, I’m Michael Brandt, and I would like to share with you my reasons for running for mayor of Polson.
I am a relative newcomer to Polson, and as such, I think I can bring a new perspective to some of the issues I’ve seen discussed and voted on by the city council.
My experience as an independent businessman specializing in website development demands a logical, well-thought-out approach to problem solving, and an ability to achieve consensus and understanding of my customers’ needs. If elected, I intend to use these skills as mayor.
Polson’s business district, scenery, hiking, camping and entertainment venues have a potential to capture more tourist dollars, instead of serving as a “drive-thru” on the way to other places. According to a study by the University of Montana’s Institute for Tourism and Recreation, tourists spent almost $4 billion in Montana in 2012. I am encouraged by efforts of the Polson Chamber of Commerce and by our town’s presence on other websites such as thisweektourism.com and visitmt.com. I would like to partner with the Chamber, Polson Business Community, Greater Polson Community Foundation, and other interested groups to explore ideas about the business district, the golf course and other attractions.
As mayor, I would like to hear from a greater number of Polson’s citizens, and not just about issues currently before city council. Is there a pothole in front of your house? A light burned out on your street? What’s your opinion on the way we spend your tax money and administer the city?
Finally, I believe that a well-run city must spend its dollars wisely. In my review of Polson’s financial statements, I am concerned with the deficits incurred over the last four years – a total of almost $3.9 million. While granting that these deficits include large amounts of capital spending on infrastructure for the future, I will ask of each new expenditure: “How much does this cost, and what are we getting for our money?”
I would like to hear your opinions and am ready to listen.
Michael Brandt
Polson
