On November 4, city residents have an opportunity to play a role in determining Helena’s future. Two mayoral candidates and three of the four candidates for City Commission took to the mics at a number of public forums recently to express their views on everything from city services and public transportation to sidewalks, downtown parking and the growing unsheltered population. Candidates were surprised when asked about the number of buildings owned by the City and shared concerns for city-approved infrastructure projects on hold due to mitigating factors such as a lack of manpower and increased costs. Audience members seemed equally impressed with commissioner candidates including Ben Rigby’s experience and grasp of the complexities of water and sewer infrastructure, Melinda Reed’s knowledge of city governance and Haley McKnight’s focus on issues facing downtown Helena. Shawn White Wolf, also in the race for city commission, did not participate in the public forums. Following the October 15 mayoral candidate forum at Brothers Tapworks, supporters commented that Andy Shirtliff “always shows up” and Emily Dean is “always prepared and informed.” With housing a favored topic at all the forums, Mountain View Meadows developer, Mark Runkle said he looks forward to working with whoever wins the race. “Over the past 20 years developing in the city of Helena, I’ve had an opportunity to work with a number of professional and civic-minded mayors and commissioners with one major goal: to provide a better quality of life for the citizens of Helena. It is our intention at Mountain View Meadows to continue to play a role in achieving that goal.”