A leader who listens. A neighbor who shows up.
5th-generation Park County — from Wilsall to Cooke City.
Born and raised here. Still here. Still working for the people of this county every single day.
As a 5th-generation Montana family, Mike Story knows this land and its people intimately — from childhood days in Emigrant, to team roping with neighbors across the valley, to never passing those in need on the side of a road, and attending neighborly get-togethers from one end of the county to the other.
Mike doesn't come to Park County politics from the outside. He grew up in it, shaped by it, and deeply committed to it. That gives him something rare: not just familiarity with the issues, but genuine understanding of the people behind them.
As County Commissioner and current County Chairperson, Mike has spent the last two years leading with the same philosophy that has guided his entire life of service — listen first, then lead. He brings all sides to the table, finds workable compromises, and puts in the due diligence to get the right answers.
Park County, Montana
Mike's qualifications aren't drawn from résumé lines — they come from decades of doing the difficult work that keeps communities safe, functional, and whole.
Elected in 2022 and re-appointed Chairperson for the 2026 calendar year — praised by fellow commissioners for his calm demeanor and steady leadership, especially during contentious public meetings.
Over 40 years running a successful outfitting business in Park County. Mike understands what it means to put clients first, keep a team working safely, and build a business on trust and reputation.
Park County's landscapes — its ranches, rivers, roads, and communities — have changed throughout Mike's lifetime, and he's been part of those changes firsthand. His commitment has always been to help neighbors thrive responsibly, balancing the needs of today with the character of a place worth protecting.
Six years as Fire Chief — recruiting, training, and equipping a top-tier department serving Paradise Valley and beyond. A firefighter and EMT since 1978, Mike has led emergency response and been an active part of responsible growth in the communities he serves.
Managed teams from 5 to 500 wildland firefighters protecting homes and structures across Arizona, Washington, and Montana. Leadership under pressure, with safety and results as the bottom line on every mission.
Whether it was a ski patroller at Big Sky, a Safety Officer on wildland fires, or an EMT at 2 AM — Mike has spent his life in service to others. That's not a campaign talking point. That's Mike.
Since taking office in 2022, Mike Story has helped guide Park County through complex decisions on budget, infrastructure, development, and community needs — always with an open door and a commitment to hearing every voice.
In January 2026, Mike was re-appointed County Chairperson by unanimous agreement of the full commission, with fellow commissioners publicly praising his steady hand and calm leadership — especially when meetings turn contentious.
Mike and the commission have made difficult spending decisions to bring Park County's budget under control. In their own words: "We're committed to getting a handle on our budget" — and they've followed through with responsible, transparent financial oversight.
The commission secured a landmark $1.875 million settlement from BNSF Railway for Park County — funds directed back into county infrastructure and services, a significant win for taxpayers.
Signed the Preliminary Engineering Report to begin the process of building a bridge on Shields River Road over Flathead Creek — a critical infrastructure improvement — and submitted for Montana Coal Endowment Program grant funding to pay for it.
When a controversial gravel pit proposal near Emigrant drew nearly 150 residents to a commission meeting, Mike and the commission declined to issue a letter of support and instead called for public meetings and community input before any formal action — listening before leading.
Supported a commission proposal to add two monthly public work sessions — held on the second and fourth Thursdays — to increase transparency and give residents more access to their county government throughout the year.
"I think Commissioner Story has done a great job chairing these meetings, especially with conflict, because of his calm demeanor."— Commissioner Bryan Wells, Park County Commission, January 2026
"I think Commissioner Story has done a good job chairing these meetings, especially when contentious. I appreciate your calm demeanor. I am glad to be sitting next to you on this commission."— Commissioner Jennifer Vermillion, Park County Commission, January 2026
Park County's issues are real and complex. Mike's commitment is to continue the nonpartisan, listening-first approach that has made him an effective Chairperson — finding solutions that work for everyone.
Mike believes in hearing all sides before acting. The issues facing Park County — infrastructure, development, public lands — require collaboration, not partisanship. Every constituent from Wilsall to Cooke City deserves a seat at the table.
With nearly five decades in fire, EMS, and emergency management, Mike understands what it takes to keep Park County residents safe. He'll ensure our emergency services remain funded, trained, and ready for whatever comes next.
Born into this land's traditions, Mike understands the delicate balance between development, conservation, and the ranching and agricultural livelihoods that define Park County's character and economy.
County government should be open and accountable. Mike is committed to responsible stewardship of public resources and honest communication with every corner of the county — continuing the fiscal discipline already underway.
Your support helps reach neighbors across Park County — from Wilsall to Cooke City. Every contribution makes a difference.
Print, fill out, and mail with your check to Jeff Wagner, Treasurer · 100 Morgan Trail, Livingston MT 59047
Paid for by Mike Story for Commissioner.
Montana contribution limit for county commissioner candidates: $470 per election (2025–26 cycle).
Contributions are not tax-deductible. Corporate and union contributions are prohibited under Montana law.
Treasurer required to collect full name and mailing address of each contributor. ·
politicalpractices.mt.gov