ABOUT ANDY SHIRTLIFF
Hi, I'm Andy
About Me
​
I was blessed to be born a fifth-generation Montanan, to be raised in the Last Best Place, and lucky enough to end up in Helena, the town where I met my wife, started my professional career, and was appointed and elected to serve on the Helena City Commission.
​
During the day, I am the Executive Director of a statewide organization that focuses on building more affordable homes. Whether it's working to create housing solutions in my day job, chairing the Helena Farmers Market board, or showing up to listen to neighbors' concerns as your City Commissioner, I've learned that the best solutions come when we work together.
​
My career has centered around helping people develop skills for their next job, strengthening our community, and helping entrepreneurs start businesses. This work has always focused on what I believe matters most: our people, our places, and our prosperity.
In my free time, I enjoy exploring Helena and Montana with my family and our pups, as well as volunteering and serving on boards throughout our community.
​
I believe that leadership is not a title,
It's how we show up for each other.
​
I moved to Helena 15 years ago, and from the first day I was here, I knew I was in a town that doesn't leave people behind. I've witnessed this firsthand neighbors organized fundraisers without being asked when a local family faced unexpected medical bills.
​
When the pandemic hit our small businesses, our community stepped up with takeout orders and creative support. I've seen our community rally around people in need, raise money for families, and collect toys, food, and school supplies for our kids. It's inspiring, and it's just who we are.
This is the Helena I want to build on, focusing on our people, our places, and our prosperity.
I believe in a Helena that works together to face its biggest challenges. I believe in a community that looks beyond our differences to meet the needs of today and tomorrow. I believe in a more livable, vibrant, and prosperous Helena.
​
That is why I am running to be Helena's Mayor—to ensure we continue being the kind of community that shows up for each other and builds a stronger Helena together.
MISSION STATEMENT
Moving Helena Forward
I believe in sleeves-up, boots-on-the-ground leadership. Leadership is not a title, it's how we show up for each other.
​
When making decisions, listening should always be the first step. My commitment to you is to listen and learn about the issues before taking action, because the best solutions come when we work together.
​
In my time on the Commission, we've approved thousands of new homes, invested millions in affordable housing and infrastructure, and strengthened our community, all while balancing the budget and being responsible stewards of your tax dollars.
​
We're just getting started. Let's continue working together to move Helena forward by focusing on our people, our places, and our prosperity.
​