Endorsements

What people in the Flathead Valley have to say about Sheriff Brian Heino

As someone who worked alongside Sheriff Heino for 20 years, I am honored to write this letter of recommendation.

Throughout his career in law enforcement, Sheriff Heino has consistently demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the Flathead County Community.

I had the privilege of working alongside Sheriff Heino throughout my career, and I came to know him especially well when we both served in administrative leadership roles. During that time, he was often my first call when I was faced with a difficult decision or when our agency needed resources, coordination, or support. I valued his steady judgment, thoughtful approach, and willingness to collaborate. In all our work together, I never once heard him focus on jurisdictional boundaries—only on what was best for the citizens of Flathead County.

Law enforcement in Montana carries a unique tradition. We place a high value on community relationships, mutual respect, discretion, professionalism, and service. Sheriff Heino embodies those principles at his core. He understands that effective policing depends on trust and partnership with the community, and he leads in a way that reflects those values every day.

Sheriff Heino has earned the deep respect of fellow law enforcement leaders in the Flathead and across the state. He has guided his agency through some of the most challenging times in recent history with steadiness and resolve. The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office continues to benefit from his leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence.

I wholeheartedly and without reservation recommend Sheriff Brian Heino. His experience, character, and dedication make him an exceptional leader and Sheriff.

– Doug Overman, Retired Kalispell Chief of Police

“I am proud to endorse Sheriff Brian Heino for re-election. I have worked alongside Brian for over 20 years, and I’ve seen firsthand the steady, principled leadership he brings to Flathead County. He supports his team, makes thoughtful decisions, and always puts public safety first. As Detention Commander, I’ve especially appreciated his commitment to our jail staff and his support in moving forward with the new jail facility, a critical investment in the safety of our employees and our community. Flathead County deserves experienced, local leadership that understands our values.”

Jennifer Root

“I proudly endorse Brian Heino for re-election as Flathead County's Sheriff. Born and raised here, he has deep roots in this community and understands the values that shape it. He cares deeply about the next generation and has a vested interest in keeping our families and neighborhoods safe. His integrity and steady leadership make him the right choice to serve and protect our community.”

Dr. Susy PetersonSt. Matthew's School Principal

“I have had the honor of working with Sheriff Brian Heino for several years on a nonprofit youth baseball board in the valley, as well as through my role serving on the Flathead County Fair Board. Brian always brings integrity and a common-sense approach to every situation we are considering. I am always impressed by Brian’s ability to assess the issue at hand and provide logical and fair solutions quickly. I have seen him make recommendations time and time again that are best for the group as a whole, regardless of how it could impact him personally. He has and will continue to act in the best interests of the residents of Flathead County. Sheriff Heino leads with humility and a servant’s heart that makes it easy for someone like me to get behind, knowing he does what is right and not just easy. It is my sincere hope that Sheriff Heino is elected to another term as Sheriff for Flathead County, our valley will be a better place because of it.”

Zach Diede, P.E.Structural Engineer

“I am proud to endorse Brian Heino for re-election as Sheriff of Flathead County. Sheriff Heino represents the very best of public service, steady leadership, deep local roots, and an unwavering commitment to the safety of our community. With more than two decades in law enforcement, he brings experience across patrol operations, investigations, tactical response, and administrative leadership. That depth of experience matters in a growing county like ours. Since taking office, Brian has focused on strengthening professionalism within the department, improving transparency, and building trust between law enforcement and the public. He understands that public safety is not just about enforcement… It is about relationships, communication, accountability, and long-term planning. Flathead County is evolving. Growth brings opportunity, but it also brings complexity. Sheriff Heino has demonstrated that he can lead through that growth with clarity, fairness, and resolve. He works collaboratively with city, county, and state partners to ensure our communities remain safe while respecting the rights and liberties of every citizen. Leadership in law enforcement requires judgment, character, and courage. Sheriff Brian Heino has consistently shown all three. I am confident in his continued leadership and strongly encourage voters to support his re-election.”

Giuseppe CaltabianoWhitefish City Councilman

“I am proud to offer my endorsement of Brian Heino for Sheriff of Flathead County. I have known Brian for many years both professionally and personally. Brian continuously exhibits integrity, leadership, and a strong commitment to public safety. He possesses the rare combination of experience, sound judgement and steady temperament that is essential for the office of Sheriff. In addition to his law enforcement experience, Brian has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to search and rescue operations. His previous role with Two Bear Air Rescue as a Hoist Operator, Rescue Specialist and Tactical Flight Officer speaks volumes about both his skill and his character. The work demands precision, courage, teamwork, and the ability to make critical decisions under pressure. Often in the most challenging of environments and circumstances. Those are the exact qualities we need in our Sheriff. Brian understands that the Sheriff’s Office is not only about enforcement, but about service. Responding when citizens are at their most vulnerable, whether in a criminal emergency or a backcountry rescue. His professional experience and his connection to the Flathead Valley as a homegrown resident reflects a deep dedication to protecting life and support for First Responders across our region. I strongly encourage you to support Brian Heino for Sheriff in the upcoming election.”

Rob CherotAssistant Chief Pilot, Two Bear Air Rescue Foundation

“I 100% endorse Flathead County Sheriff - Coroner Brian Heino. I have served with Sheriff Heino with the Montana Sheriff and Peace Officers Association and have found him to be completely reliable, honest, trustworthy and dependable. He makes decisions after careful consideration and has the experience necessary to see law enforcement in Flathead County and the State of Montana into the future.”

Steve Holton