Slaney represents the working class

I grew up in small agricultural community in eastern South Dakota. I received my bachelor’s degree from Black Hills State University in Spearfish, S.D. I started a career with BNSF Railway eight years ago and have been living in Whitefish for six years.

I first became interested in the city’s business when I read about a $12 million dollar parking structure and City Hall (now grown to $15 million). I started investigating the options that had been explored. I can think of three less expensive alternatives that are more feasible to make the parking a non-issue.

Does the city not have bigger fish to fry? To me parking is a non-issue when the topic of septic systems leaking into Whitefish Lake is brought up. I think everyone would walk a couple extra blocks if they knew money and resources were shifted to address that issue.

This represents a systematic failure by the local government to address and remedy antiquated infrastructure.

Personally, if my house had sewer leaking into the basement the last thing I would do is go get a loan to put a four-car garage on.

I represent the working class and a younger demographic that is being priced out of the market, one that is currently not represented on the city council.

I have identified three key issues: Foster positive investment and development at the local level, ignite meaningful civic engagement, and develop sustainable growth and infrastructure management.

— Barton Slaney is a candidate for Whitefish City Council