Dustin Leftridge Appointed as Kalispell Ward 3 Council Member, 1-22-26FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dustin Leftridge Appointed as Kalispell Ward 3 Council Member
Kalispell, MT – January 22, 2026 – The Kalispell City Council unanimously appointed Dustin
Leftridge to the vacant Ward 3 City Council seat during its January 20, 2026, meeting.
The Ward 3 position became vacant when former Council Member Ryan
Hunter began his elected term as mayor. Letters of interest were solicited
from Ward 3 residents, with a submission deadline of January 4. In
accordance with state law, the City Council’s appointment fills the
remainder of the current term, which expires December 31, 2028. The
regular four-year term for the seat will be decided by voters in November
2027.
Leftridge was selected by the mayor and council from a pool of six
qualified applicants. Council Member Daoud, who presented the motion
for appointment, noted that all applicants were strong candidates and
stated Leftridge was chosen based on “who I thought would complement
this current council right now.” Other council members echoed these
sentiments, expressing appreciation for the quality of applicants and encouraging all candidates
to remain engaged with the city.
Leftridge brings professional and personal experience that will serve him well in the role. He is a
graduate of the University of Montana School of Law and serves as managing partner of
McGarvey Law. As both a downtown resident and business owner, Council Member Leftridge
has firsthand insight into the opportunities and challenges facing Ward 3. In his letter of interest,
Leftridge emphasized his ability to find common ground, listen openly, and work
collaboratively.
“I care deeply about Kalispell and its future, and I am honored to serve the community on the
City Council,” Leftridge said.
Council Member Leftridge will be administered the oath of office at the beginning of the January
26, 2026, City Council work session, after which he will officially take his seat alongside the
mayor and council.