Filings begin in municipal elections

Several candidates have filed for upcoming municipal elections in Flathead County.

In Kalispell, four candidates so far have filed to run for City Council.

Incumbent Ryan Hunter is being challenged by Kevin Aurich in Ward 3. Two incumbents have also filed for reelection, Kari Gabriel in Ward 1 and Sid Daoud in Ward 4.

No candidates have filed for the Ward 2 spot currently held by Sam Nunnally.

Municipal Judge Alison Howard is running to retain her seat on the bench in Kalispell. She was appointed to fill the position in January following the departure of the previous judge.

In Whitefish, Mayor John Muhlfeld has filed for reelection. He is seeking a fourth term.

Two incumbents, Frank Sweeney and Steve Qunell, are looking to retain their seats. Newcomer Nathan Dugan has filed for a spot on Council.

Incumbent Councilor Rebecca Norton has not yet filed for re-election.

Municipal Judge Caitlin Overland has filed for reelection. She began serving in the position in January 2022 following the death of the previous judge.

In Columbia Falls, one candidate so far has filed in the election. Darin Fisher is seeking to retain his spot on Council.

The seats held by Kelly Hamilton and John Piper are also up for election this year.

The last day for candidates to file for the Nov. 7 election is June 19.

Features Editor Heidi Desch may be reached at 758-4421 or hdesch@dailyinterlake.com.