Two Billings Republicans, John Staley and Mike Waters, are vying for the Yellowstone County commissioner seat currently held by Don Jones, who is not seeking re-election. The winner will serve a six-year term.
Staley, a longtime fire chief, is running to improve public safety and communication. He aims to involve the public in decision-making processes and even wants to change the timing of meetings, which currently take place at 9:30 a.m.
MTN News
Staley also advocates for increasing the number of county commissioners to better represent Billings’ growing population. He emphasized the importance of non-partisan decision-making based on community needs.
MTN News
Waters, a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel, is also prioritizing public safety in his campaign. He supports maintaining the current three-member board of commissioners and is cautious about any tax increases, showing concern for families and seniors in the community.
With no Democrats in the race, the primary winner is expected to become the next commissioner. Voting starts on Tuesday and can be done at local polling places in Yellowstone County, with mail-in ballots needing to be returned to the courthouse for proper counting.
