Governor Greg Gianforte continued his sixth annual 56 County Tour on April 17 by meeting with residents in Deer Lodge, Powell, and Granite counties to recognize Montana veterans, small businesses, and first responders.
The tour is intended to help state leadership better understand the needs of local communities. “You learn more from being on the ground than you do sitting behind a desk. Hearing directly from Montanans helps us be more responsive to the needs of each of our communities,” Gianforte said.
During his visit in Anaconda, Gianforte presented the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation to Specialist Kenneth Maynard, a U.S. Army veteran who served during the Vietnam War and later contributed to local organizations such as the Anaconda Restoration Association. The commendation recognizes veterans for their service both in uniform and within their communities; over 170 veterans have received this honor since 2021.
Gianforte also visited Western States Garage Door Supply in Anaconda to highlight its new facility opened in 2024. Steve Colvin, regional sales manager for the company, said: “We are lucky in Montana to have such a business-friendly governor. Governor Gianforte has made it easier for Montana businesses to succeed and thrive in our state. We are grateful for him to stop by and see our operation.” The business serves clients across several states including Idaho, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Oregon, Utah, and Washington.
In Deer Lodge County at SW Montana Veterans Food Pantry, Gianforte assisted volunteers unloading supplies for nearly 1,000 veterans served annually by the pantry. Jay and Susan Wood said: “Every year our team of volunteers serves the veteran community in and around Deer Lodge. Veterans are very humble people who will often go without because they feel they there are people who ‘need it more.’ This food pantry fills a need in our community and helps those who served our country.”
The day concluded with a visit to Philipsburg Volunteer Fire Department where recent legislation was discussed that provides tax exemptions for volunteer firefighters while protecting them from job termination related to their service commitments. Fire Chief David Ray said: “I appreciate the support Governor Gianforte has shown to rural fire departments… I’m thankful for the continuous support Governor Gianforte has shown during his time in office.”
Gianforte plans to continue his county tour with stops scheduled soon across eastern Montana.
