Dustin Leftridge Letter of Interest, Ward 3Dustin Leftridge
345 1st Avenue East
Kalispell, MT 59901
406-752-5566
dleftridge@mcgarveylaw.com
December 18, 2025
Mr. Mayor and Members of the City Council,
Kalispell is my home, and I am applying to serve on the City Council because I care
about how this community grows and how today’s decisions affect its future. My wife,
Brynne, and I have lived downtown for twelve years, where we are raising our two sons.
Living downtown has given me a firsthand view of both the opportunities and pressures
facing Kalispell, and I am committed to this community for the long term.
I am a graduate of the University of Montana School of Law and have practiced law in
Kalispell for twelve years. As an undergraduate at the University of Montana, I served as
student body president, which was my first experience representing a wide range of
viewpoints and working through real budget and governance issues. I am now the
managing partner at McGarvey Law, where much of my work has involved representing
former miners and their families from Libby. That work requires finding common ground
between individual clients and some of the largest law firms and insurance companies in
the country. Progress is only possible through preparation, clear communication, and
negotiation grounded in trust and persistence. These are not short-term problems, and
solutions come from staying engaged and working through difficult issues over time.
Those same skills are directly applicable to city council service. Council work often
involves shifting dynamics, competing priorities, and long-term consequences. My
professional experience has taught me to evaluate complex issues, ask direct questions,
and work toward practical outcomes. It has also reinforced the importance of listening
and collaboration when there is no single “right” answer.
I have also been involved in Kalispell beyond my professional work. I served on the One
Brave Pack team that helped pass the recent high school levy, have served on local boards,
and am currently working with the Chamber on the Downtown Forward Coalition.
These efforts reflect my belief that lasting progress comes from community involvement
and collaboration.
Downtown Kalispell faces real challenges, particularly rising property taxes and
increasing costs for homeowners and small businesses. Because I live and work downtown,
these issues are personal to me. I see how policy decisions affect people day to day. I am
interested in solutions that are fiscally responsible and grounded in the realities of living
and working here, while preserving what makes Kalispell unique.
I do not approach public service from a political or ideological perspective. I see that as a
strength. It allows me to listen openly, work with people who hold different views, and
evaluate proposals on their merits. I would approach this role with respect for differing
opinions and a genuine commitment to collaboration.
If appointed, I will take the responsibility seriously. I will come prepared, stay engaged,
and do the work required outside of meetings. I care deeply about Kalispell and its future,
and I would be honored to serve the community on the City Council.
Sincerely,
Dustin Leftridge