Public Life

Jim began his public service career in 2005, appointed as Director of the Montana Department of Transportation by incoming Gov. Brian Schweitzer.

At MDT, Jim gained a reputation for delivering projects stalled in state administration while transforming the organization into a results-oriented entity with a greater sense of urgency.  At the same time, he demonstrated an ability to listen effectively and engage legislature, state agencies and citizens in a positive and constructive way.

Jim did more than oversee job-producing construction projects.  He also took the lead in highway safety, working with local agencies and law enforcement to implement a program that reduced traffic fatalities to their lowest levels in 12 years — despite significant increases in traffic.

Jim has a well-known reputation for being first on the scene and accessible in dealing effectively in emergency situations as well as volatile and hostile situations. His proactive approach generates confidence from others that their issues are heard and their problems will get attention.  His hands-on approach and personal presence at emergency roadwork projects across the state during the spring floods of 2011 are an excellent example of his commitment to the people he serves.

Also, Jim has been awarded the Citizens Service Medal from the City of Kalispell and the Kalispell Police Department; and the Meritorious Service Award from the Montana Department of Justice and the Montana Highway Patrol.  He has been active in the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce, having served as a past president, and as a board member of Flathead Industries.  He also serves on the Northwest Healthcare Foundation A.L.E.R.T. advisory board.

Jim Lynch possesses a unique combination of experience in both the private and public sectors that will enable him  to work effectively with the legislature, the state agencies and you, the residents of Montana, to prioritize expenditures to  promote economic development, create jobs, improve education and streamline our government to  provide the necessary services taxpayers expect.