Page 42 - B2B Spring19
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BUSINESS TO BUSINESS CONNECTION
4. WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME REWARDING MOMENTS SO FAR THIS SESSION?
Whenever there is a bill that is truly bipartisan and takes effort on both sides of the aisle to get passed thru this process, I think those are the most precious times in the legislature. Great policy can be easy but when it is hard to achieve it matters more. When you
have the help of stakeholders and other legislators,
it shows how relationships are necessary to achieve better, longer lasting, policies and processes that work for all our citizens. That effort leaves a legacy. Even if you don’t get credit for the effort, you feel pride in the work that goes into achieving the great outcome for all of Montana.
SENATOR JANET ELLIS
SENATE DISTRICT 41
1. WHAT IS YOUR JOB/ BUSINESS/CAREER – OUTSIDE OF BEING A LEGISLATOR?
I recently retired after 29 years working for Montana Audubon, a science-based wildlife conservation
organization. Montana Audubon is based in Helena, but works throughout the state. I focus at Montana Audubon was on public policy – essentially advocating for wildlife and wildlife habitat.
2. WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU FACE IN KEEPING YOUR JOB/BUSINESS/CAREER GOING WHILE SERVING THE 4 MONTHS OF THE LEGISLATURE?
This is the  rst session where I have not had to leave my job to serve at the legislature – and it has been great not having to worry about my job while serving.
3. WHAT BACKGROUND AND/OR SKILLS FROM YOUR JOB/BUSINESS/CAREER DO YOU FEEL GIVE YOU EXTRA EXPERTISE TO BE A BETTER, MORE EFFECTIVE LEGISLATOR?
While I worked at Montana Audubon, I lobbied the Montana Legislature, starting in 1981 (as an intern). Because my job took me to the Capitol for so many
years, I brought that experience with me as a legislator – things like being able to read bills, knowing the legislative process, knowing staff and agencies, etc.
In addition, as a science-based policy staff person for many years, I can easily take in information about policy issues, allowing me to understand issues quickly.
4. WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME REWARDING MOMENTS SO FAR THIS SESSION?
The best part about being a legislator is how much you learn - and the many friendships you make. There are an incredible number of wonderful people who work at or visit the Capitol. This work includes crossing paths with citizens from throughout the state who care deeply about their communities and speci c issues that bring them to Helena.
One of my greatest honors is to represent Helena. As part of that, I’ve worked hard to pass a bill to help local governments with their infrastructure projects. That bill, SB 243, was initiated by the city and supported by many communities throughout the state. The speci cs of the bill get into the weeds quickly – but su ce it to say, it will help many communities across Montana  nance street paving projects. By sponsoring this bill, I’ve enjoyed learning about how local governments  nance infrastructure – and I’ve also really enjoyed working with a long list of individuals who support the bill.
SENATOR TERRY GAUTHIER
SENATE DISTRICT 40
1. WHAT IS YOUR JOB/BUSINESS/CAREER – OUTSIDE OF BEING A LEGISLATOR?
I’m a retired United States Marine of 20 years. I have been a McDonald’s business owner for 21 years and still owe and operate the stores.
2. WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU FACE IN KEEPING YOUR JOB/BUSINESS/CAREER GOING WHILE SERVING THE 4 MONTHS OF THE LEGISLATURE?
I could have never been able to keep the wheels on the bus if it weren’t for my lovely Wife Somer


































































































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