By Daniel Locke | Staff Writer
HELENA
– Helena City Council President Alice Lobell is seeking reelection to Place 3 on the council. If reelected, Lobell will be entering her third term, making her the longest-tenured member of the council with Hal “Hewy” Woodman not seeking reelection.
Serving two terms on the council has been rewarding for Lobell, presenting her with an opportunity to serve her town in a new way.
“Being on city council has allowed me to give back to the community I love so much,” Lobell said. “It has been such an eye-opening experience. I do not think anyone can really know and understand how municipal government works until they have actually been in the trenches, so to speak.”
The most rewarding part of serving on the council for Lobell has been the relationships she has been able to develop with people in the community.
“Getting to know a lot of the city workers, learning about their contributions to making Helena such a great place to live,” Lobell said. “Being able to represent the city at many meetings and events. Working with the youth of the city, especially developing the Helena Teen Council.”
Lobell’s top priority when first joining the council was to serve Helena’s senior citizens and youth. Through two terms, Lobell is proud of what has been accomplished for both groups. She has worked to give all Helena citizens, both young and old, a voice in the community.
“When the new city municipal building is completed, the senior citizens will have a space within the building to call their own, complete with meeting rooms, a kitchen and separate bathrooms,” Lobell said. “The Helena Teen Council is thriving. This group of young people are prominent volunteers at numerous city events, giving their time and energy to help make Helena a wonderful place to live.”
While Lobell is pleased with many of the council’s accomplishments during this term, one that stands out to her is the creation of grants for Helena’s schools, contributing to the service of the youth and educators alike.
“The implementation of the TAG grant that awards money to teachers to help them acquire items for their classrooms to enhance learning,” Lobell said.
If reelected, Lobell plans to continue advocating for Helena’s development, helping the city have more to offer its residents and visitors.
“Encourage the development of the new town center close to the new city hall,” Lobell said. “Complete the new sports complex area so we can host tournaments in our city. Build a structure that will be designated as a place just for Helena teens. Expand our industrial area and attract more businesses to locate there.”
Lobell would like to see more members of the community participate in local happenings and find different ways to have a role.
“I ask that the citizens look at the big picture and understand that change is inevitable, growth is optional,” Lobell said. “I ask that everyone get involved. Attend city council meetings, participate in city sponsored events, volunteer to serve on a board or committee.”
The Municipal Election is set for Aug. 26.
