Local Candidates: Cascade County Commission
Editors note: Candidates on the November 5 ballot for Cascade County Commission are Republican Eric Hinebauch and Democrat Don Ryan. Ryan did not respond to our request for a candidate profile. Republican Rae Grulkowski has filed as a write-in candidate.
I am 5th generation Montanan, that grew up on the Hi-Line near Chinook, MT. My family continues to operate the farm I grew up on. After graduating from the University of Great Falls, I ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing my own business, in 2011. As the owner of an insurance agency, with multiple employees, I am deeply rooted in our community. My vision is to help create a supportive environment in Cascade County, one that nurtures small businesses, fosters a prosperous economy, values a safe environment, and promotes sensible growth. At the age of 38, I bring a unique perspective. I strive to ensure that when my business journey concludes, Cascade County remains an affordable and thriving place to call home.
I believe in active community involvement. I love to support the people and organizations working to make a difference in Cascade County. Wrestling has always been a big part of my life and had the privilege of serving as the CMR Assistant Wrestling Coach and Great Falls Central Catholic Head Wrestling Coach spanning a decade. I have proudly served on several community boards in the past including the Heisey Youth Center Board, Saint Ann’s Parish Council, GF Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee and Great Falls Development Alliance. I continue to be involved as a Rotary Club member and serving on the Benefis Foundation board and as University of Providence Trustee.
I served as a Great Falls’ City Commissioner and dedicated that time to effecting positive change. I helped clear encampments in downtown areas. I advocated for diversity of viewpoints on various city boards, ensuring fresh perspectives were represented.
Public safety has always been a top priority and I’ve actively sought ways to support our safety services, even when faced with budget constraints.
I collaborated with the City’s planning and development department to simplify processes, fostering a culture of exemplary customer service.
Yet, the challenges facing Cascade County transcend city boundaries. It’s imperative that we rebuild trust in our county government. Effective communication is key, ensuring that citizens are well-informed and involved in decision-making processes. Operations within the county commission office are in disarray, necessitating improved methods for daily decision-making are a priority. As our county experiences growth, meticulous planning is essential, not only from a developmental standpoint but also concerning public safety.
Amidst the turmoil in the Elections Office, it is essential we move forward. It’s incumbent upon the county commission to ensure that Terry Thompson receives the necessary support and training for success. Decisions have been made, and despite personal reservations, we must forge ahead, endeavoring to regain the trust of voters.
Why choose me? The relationship between the city and county has been strained for years. However, my rapport with Mayor Reeves presents an opportunity to mend this division, fostering collaboration for the betterment of our community. Unlike many newly elected officials, I am prepared from day one. I possess a comprehensive understanding of budget intricacies and municipal governance responsibilities. My approach is proactive and resolute, with a singular focus on realizing Cascade County’s full potential.
Cascade County must prepare now, with sensible growth planning, so when the anticipated population boom from Malmstrom’s missile upgrade comes, we are ready. We have many opportunities in the agri-processing sector, but we need leaders who will ensure our land and waterways are protected, while we maintain our Montana ways.
I’ve got the energy and tenacity to work hard every day to help lead Cascade County through the coming opportunities. If you’re ready for fresh leadership, I’d appreciate your support.
Eric Hinebauch
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Hello Cascade County!
I am Rae Grulkowski, your Cascade County Commissioner and I am running again in November as a write-in candidate. My husband and I own a multi-generational business in Great Falls, we own residential rental properties and we make our home south and east of Stockett. Therefore, my representation on the Commission always carries thoughts for the influences of government on our rural constituents. I am an advocate for bottom-up leadership. That means encouraging citizens to speak up and be heard. I take a very conservative position regarding taxpayer funds. I support safe communities and effective emergency response. Adhering to and enforcing policies and laws puts me on firm ground and ensures all employees and staff are dealt with fairly and equitably.
My first two years in this office were spent battling to have transparent Commissioner meetings and refocusing Commissioner decision-making as a Board, rather than as individual Commissioners. Business owners and citizens have laws and rules they are expected to follow, the Board of Commissioners are also accountable to follow laws and rules.
Not being one to “go along to get along”, in my tenure, there have been many 2-1 votes. Do you know what the difference is between a 2-1 vote vs. a 3-0 vote? The representation. Something I take seriously.
The County Commissioner is the highest governing official in the County. Only the citizen is a higher authority than a County Commissioner. I encourage you to consider your candidates thoroughly in this election. With 3 candidates for County Commissioner who have all been Public Servants in the past, you have an excellent opportunity to view their prior accomplishments. Do not vote for a political party. Vote for the candidate who will be honest in their commitment to be your Public Servant. There is freedom in your vote, Cascade County! Make your vote count on November 5.
Please learn more at raeforcascadecounty.com.