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October has arrived, and with it comes one of the busiest, most exciting months of the year for our city. From community festivals to fall sports, special recognitions, and city business, there is so much happening that touches nearly every resident of Helena. I encourage each of you to take part in these opportunities to celebrate, support, and reflect on the unique spirit that makes Helena home.

Mark your calendars for one of our city’s hallmark events—the Buck Creek Festival—returning October 10th and 11th at Amphitheater Park. Each year, this festival draws thousands of people from Helena and beyond, and 2025 promises to be another incredible celebration. Come out and enjoy two full days of live music, a wide array of local vendors, delicious food, and, of course, the famous duck race that has become a beloved Helena tradition. The festival not only provides family fun, but also raises funds that are reinvested directly back into community projects, so your participation makes a difference.

Fall sports are now at their midway point, and our student-athletes are working hard to finish the season strong. From youth leagues to middle school teams to our Helena High School programs, I encourage everyone to show up and show out for these young athletes. Your presence in the stands means more than you may realize—it gives our kids the support they deserve as they represent Helena with pride. Whether it’s football under the Friday night lights, volleyball, cross country, or youth soccer, let’s make this season memorable for them.

On Saturday, October 11th, Helena will honor one of its finest citizens with Jack Gray Day. Jack dedicated over four decades of his life to volunteering in our community and was instrumental in shaping Helena into the place we love today. His legacy of service and love for this city is one that will be remembered for generations. I invite all residents to join us as we celebrate his contributions and honor the lasting impact he made on our community.

As a reminder—since the questions are sure to start rolling in—Trick or Treating in Helena will, as always, be on Halloween night itself. This year, October 31st falls on a Friday, making it an especially festive evening for families. After enjoying Trick or Treating, I encourage you to make your way up to The Hill for the last Helena Huskies home football game of the regular season. What better way to round out a great night than by cheering on our team under the lights?

Finally, I must address an important matter affecting our city operations. For the first time in Helena’s history, the City Council did not pass a new fiscal year budget before the year began. This unprecedented decision has significant ramifications for our ability to grow and meet the needs of our residents. Without an approved budget, the city cannot bring on additional first responders, expand services, or undertake projects beyond baseline operations.

As your Mayor, I take seriously my duty to present a balanced budget for review. I did so, and while the Council has the authority to make modifications, the process fell short of approval this year. This is not the path I believe best serves our city, but we will continue working to find a resolution that ensures Helena remains financially sound and positioned for the future.

October is a month that embodies the best of Helena: tradition, community spirit, remembrance, and resilience. I hope you will join in the many opportunities to engage with your neighbors, honor our history, and celebrate the vibrant life we share here in Helena. Together, we can continue to make this city a place we are all proud to call home.

Together As One,

Brian