The city of Helena welcomed three newly elected city officials Thursday evening, at a swearing-in ceremony.
City commissioners Emily Dean and Sean Logan and municipal court judge Anne Peterson took the oath of office from district court judge Mike Menahan. Dozens of people were on hand for the ceremony.
Dean and Logan are both new to the commission, after they defeated two incumbent commissioners in November’s election.
Dean works as a communications specialist for the Montana School Boards Association, and previously worked as a school teacher. She said she is looking forward to being an advocate for the people of Helena.
“I’m excited to finally put some of my ideas to work and really be part of this commission and solving some of the major issues that Helena faces and the challenges that we’ll continue to face,” she said.
Logan spent almost 20 years with the Helena Fire Department, including three years as its chief, before retiring. He said, after Thursday’s ceremony, he’s ready to go to work for the community.
“It makes it feel real, for sure,” he said. “Clearly with the New Year, we’re aware that the work will begin and there’s a lot of challenging issues ahead, and I’m looking forward to it.”
Peterson is a former deputy Lewis and Clark County attorney. She was appointed Helena municipal court judge last year, and she won her first full term in November.
“I’m excited to continue the work I’ve been doing so far in the past eight months, and excited for a new space and some new ideas for the municipal court,” she said.
Dean, Logan and Peterson all thanked their families and everyone else who has supported them. Helena Mayor Wilmot Collins thanked all three for putting themselves forward as elected leaders.
“Each of you bring talents and experiences to this commission and city, and we’re looking forward to tapping your expertise,” he said.
The newest city commissioners will soon begin their work. Their first administrative meeting is set for Wednesday, and their first formal commission meeting will be Monday, Jan. 13.
