Small business in Montana

Montana is a small business state. In the past, the huge expanse of our state and its remoteness was a deterrent to a prosperous economy. Now, our remoteness is an advantage and has helped to drive Montana's economy to where it is today. However, while unemployment rates are at low levels, skilled labor is becoming more difficult to find. As parents, grandparents, small business owners, and concerned citizens, we do not want to see our children and grandchildren forced to leave the state to earn a decent living.

Many of our small businesses count on providing their goods and services to out of state visitors. These consumers are attracted to the uniqueness and beauty of the many treasures in our area, including Flathead Lake, Blacktail Ski Resort, The Big Mountain, and the Bob Marshall wilderness. If our water quality is not maintained, however, and access to public lands is barred, these consumers will not travel to our state and the income of our small businesses will dwindle.

During the past 25 years, working as a small business owner, I have focused my energies on bridging economic growth with water quality maintenance. I have a proven track record of balancing the needs of our business community with our obligation as Montanans to preserve what makes this state so exceptional. Because of my experience working on these issues, I have the unique ability to bring parties together with many different views to solve problems. And as a small business owner and father, I understand the problems facing our businesses and children when it comes to skilled labor.

Please e-mail, write, or call me. I would be more than happy to talk with you, and your friends and family.

Ric Smith

SD 5 candidate