Dominic Farrenkopf
I am Dominic Farrenkopf, candidate for Mayor of the City of Hamilton, and I truly care about people. I read to preschool and elementary students at the Bitterroot Public Library and valley public schools. I teach poetry to elementary, middle school and high school students in community forums, public and private schools. I engage the community with other working adults through civic involvement. As a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard, I actively participate in the American Legion, furthering my role in civic duty with fellow veterans. I have been serving seniors as an activity director in retirement communities for nearly 12 years. Because I do genuinely care about people of every age, I have decided to run for Mayor of Hamilton.
For me to be effective in this office, many factors must be considered. I see three prominent concerns: Effective cooperation with the city council, strategic economic development and impactful civic duty.
According to the Rules and Responsibilities outlining the duties of the mayor, “Foremost among these duties of the mayor is the duty to enforce state laws and the ordinances and resolutions adopted by the council.” With this in mind, effective cooperation with the city council will be a primary concern. I will achieve this through listening to the councilors, maintaining respect for all views, and providing an environment of healthy expression on all agenda items.
Another concern of mine is economic development. As a current member of the Hamilton Downtown Association and an active member of the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce as an ambassador, I am aware of the challenges faced by Hamilton businesses. I intend to continue working with these organizations to strengthen our local economy and make Hamilton a commerce destination for locals and tourists alike.
Finally, in the office of mayor I will continue to enhance my level of involvement in civic duty. Hamilton is a unique place, with a brilliant collage of colors that offers citizens opportunities to serve our community in a variety of ways. Fundraisers, benefits and social causes are deeply woven into the fabric of Hamilton and I am proud to have been involved in many community causes. As mayor, I will encourage civic involvement by other city residents through my example and invitation to participate.
Keeping effective cooperation with the city council, strategic economic development and impactful civic duty in mind, I will do my best to serve as your mayor — with Hamilton at heart.
Travis Martinez
I have lived a life of service and feel it is important for everyone to give back to the community. I have been very blessed personally and professionally. As a Bitterroot graduate, business owner, and family man, I value the opportunities I have had and want to continue this for future generations. The opportunity to be your Mayor is one way to repay our community, and it will be a great honor.
While serving my country in the U.S. Army I had many duties, from coordinating next of kin notifications to leading a Tactical Psychological Operations Team in Korea and Iraq. In Iraq, I met with community leaders to understand the best way we could help their citizens in a very tremulous time. I am currently a member of the Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans of America. I have volunteered on the Ravalli County Search and Rescue, have served as a board member and treasurer for the Bitter Root Water Forum, as well as many other boards and non-profits.
While currently serving on the Hamilton City Council, I have seen an opportunity to better serve my community, not in the policy making arena of the Council. Rather, in the implementation arena where I can put my experiences and relationships to use for the benefit of all the citizens of Hamilton.
The most pressing issue for our great community is the lack of jobs. It is not uncommon for residents of Hamilton to drive to Missoula and other areas for work. While outside of our community, these same people must spend money on food, gas, and other items which could have been spent locally. This export of workforce and money out of Hamilton is creating a negative spiral effect which must stop. We must be able to revitalize the job market in Hamilton. It is very disheartening the State of Montana has decided to close the Job Service in Hamilton. As Mayor, this is one of my priorities. I will meet with State officials to discuss our need for this valuable service in Hamilton. I feel it is important for this service to be available in our community.
In closing, I strongly believe earning my Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership, my current experience on the Council, my military experience, and various leadership roles will help me ensure the City of Hamilton is working for all its citizens in the most economical and efficient manner.