Bigfork Water and Sewer Board incumbents retain seats

Incumbents on the Bigfork Water and Sewer Board retained their seats following Tuesday’s election. The election marked the first time in 30 years there has been a contested race for the board.

Board president Tom Cahill, and directors Alida Tinch and Gene Helberg will remain on the board for four-year terms. With 395 ballots cast, Cahill won the majority at 270, followed by Tinch with 210 and then Helberg with 160. Challengers Paul Holland earned 129 votes, Paul Goodrich had 120 and Joan Davis had 117.

At a candidate forum held in late April, Cahill, Tinch and Helberg told those in attendance that they were campaigning to keep the district in good shape, and protecting the environment and their customers. Helberg was not present at that forum, but submitted a statement to be read.

Goodrich, Holland and Davis ran on improving customer service relations and lowering rates, citing concerns from community members.

Holland recently told the Bigfork Eagle that his previous legal battles with the utility spurred him to campaign for a seat on the board.

The water and sewer district board makes decisions about spending, infrastructure projects and other matters in order to facilitate water and wastewater services. Currently, they are working in conjunction with district employees and engineering firm Morrison-Maierle to formulate their next 20-year infrastructure plan.