Coming together at candidate Meet-n-Greet

SEELEY LAKE – More than 50 members of the public, Seeley Lake Fire Department volunteers, staff and board members attended the Fire Board Candidate Meet and Greet April 16. Hosted by Cheri and Steve Thompson, they said it was an opportunity for the community to connect with the candidates and ask them questions in a neutral setting.

"People will vote for whom they want. I don't care who they vote for," Cheri said. "Some people are new to town and don't know who people are. That was my whole point."

Three of the four candidates attended. Connie Clark was out of town and unable to attend.

Incumbent Gary Lewis appreciated the opportunity to talk with people and find out where some of the need is. He felt more publicity might help with attracting new members. That is something people identified that they do see happening based on the articles about the department.

"I'm sure Dave [Lane, Fire Chief] is very busy doing that," said Lewis. "There are always a couple of perspectives."

Alyssa McLean said that her goal for running for the board is to be a peaceful supplement to the board, not to go in and cause more division or change things.

"I want to work together and move ahead in a way more positive light. I want to do that with no matter who is sitting on the board. If I'm a member of it, then I'm going to respect them and work with them like a good public servant."

Kristy Pohlman appreciated the opportunity to visit with members of the community and answer their questions. She was thankful for everyone who took the time to come out.

"I think this was a great idea for everyone to work together," Seeley Lake resident Donna Rios said. "Hopefully it continues."