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By TYLER RALEY | Staff Writer

HELENA – With a passion for his city and an experienced background in leadership, Dennis Wilson has announced his candidacy for Place 3 on the Helena City Council.

Wilson announced his campaign through an official press release on Tuesday, May 27, citing his plans to challenge current incumbent Alice Lobell, who has served on the City Council since 2016.

A resident of Helena since 2001, Wilson has worked for 34 years in the waterworks and utilities industry. Wilson currently serves as a member on the Helena Utility Board, but during his professional career, has served in roles as a draftsman, engineer, project manager, business owner and a national sales executive.

Having been in so many positions, Wilson feels as if his experience and variability can help get the city through a challenging season, which is one of the reasons he decided to run for office.

“Helena is entering a critical season,” read Wilson’s official press release. “We’re facing financial pressures, growing infrastructure demands and the need to protect what makes Helena such a special place to live. I believe I can help steer our city through these challenges with a steady hand, an open ear and a business-minded approach.”

As someone with a background in financials and business growth, Wilson has experience when it comes to making choices that will affect his company’s future. Having been in the depths of that process, he has an understanding of what he feels is right as a decision-maker—doing it with the people in mind.

“I’ve seen firsthand what it means to lead during turbulent times,” Wilson said in the press release. “Whether in business or community service, I don’t shy away from tough calls when they need to be made. But those decisions should always be rooted in the values and voice of the people you serve.”

As a result of his experience with his business and work background, Wilson’s campaign will be centered around fiscal responsibility, with emphasis being placed on other subjects as well like core service improvements, citizen engagement and keeping the Helena’s character alive.

Wilson also hopes to showcase a campaign that carries a heavy amount of transparency, pragmatism and authentic care for Helena as a whole and those who live there.

The longtime resident has also been heavily involved around the community outside of the Utility Board, having been a coach for youth sports, volunteered with local Helena organizations and an attendee of many events and discussions.

Wilson said his campaigning is very intentional, feeling like the time is now to step to the forefront and offer his services to the city’s top governmental body.

“I’ve always been engaged in our local elections,” Wilson said. “Sometimes I’ve been proud of our leadership, other times deeply disappointed. But now, with my kids grown and my professional experience at its peak, it’s time for me to step forward and offer my voice more directly. I’m running because I believe we need strong, competent, accessible, level-headed leadership now more than ever.”

The Helena City Council will see three definite changes to its makeup in the upcoming election, with Chris Willis, Laura Joseph and Hewy Woodman not seeking reelection. Mayor Brian Puckett is also not running for his seat as well.

The municipal election for the 2025 election cycle will take place on Aug. 26, and anyone  who wishes to learn more about Wilson’s campaign can follow him on social media @WilsonForHelena.