Native and active

This letter supports Mike Jenson for mayor of Whitefish. The Pilot recently reported that the population of Whitefish continues to increase, and that it is now more than 7,000. With its year-round recreational opportunities, many additional people come to the area. Both revenues and strain on the physical infrastructure increase.

It is absolutely imperative that the mayor be a person smart enough to understand complex issues, has the ability to stay focused on the city's long-range goals, and is willing to listen to all persons and compromise when necessary. Mike Jenson has all of those qualities.

Mike has been very active in the Flathead Valley. Three specific examples are: During the time when the Flathead Valley Community College built its new campus, Mike served on the board of directors, (he served nine years, five as its chairman, during which the new campus was built). Second, Mike served on the Whitefish City-County Planning Board for five years. Third, Mike was a founding member of the Whitefish Community Foundation.

We have known Mike and his parents, his wife Barbara and their daughter Maresa for many years. Mike's honesty, integrity, love of Whitefish and willingness to help others are unmatched.

Mike grew up in Whitefish and became very proficient in making pottery. He operated his own store and gallery in Whitefish. As a local business owner, Mike learned about and participated in city affairs. In 1998-1999, Mike was mayor of Whitefish.

Mike and Barbara and we have a close mutual Whitefish native and friend, Michael Muldown (Bob also grew up in Whitefish during the same time period as Mike and Michael). Because of our closeness, for several decades, we have often heard about Mike's vision and ability to think ahead in discussions.

Lastly, we provide a personal experience. Because of Bob's health, Bob can only stay in Whitefish for part of the year. Each spring and fall, Mike and Michael have come to our residence and helped Sue set-up and take down Bob's overhead bed lift. Both friends are very caring people.

Mike has leadership qualities, understands the challenging issues facing this unique and growing city. He will be a very good mayor.

Robert and Sue Vaughan

Whitefish