News Release
Governor Hires New Chief Policy Advisor
8/28/2002
Mary Schwarz
406-444-5523
mschwarz@state.mt.us
Helena, MT – Governor Judy Martz today announced that Senator Tom Beck will join the Governor’s Office as the Chief Policy Advisor. Beck begins work full time with the office on September 3.
“The position of chief policy advisor in the Governor’s office is absolutely vital as we do the work of the people,” said Governor Judy Martz. “Senator Beck’s background in the state legislature and as a county commissioner will provide a strong base for our office as we work on priority issues in economic development, education and tax reform.”
Senator Beck joins the Governor’s Office from his position as Senator for Senate District 28, which includes Powell, Deer Lodge and Lewis & Clark Counties. He served most recently as Senate President in the 2001 Legislative Session and during the 2002 Special Session. He will continue to represent SD 28 and serve as Senate President through the November election.
“We are excited to have Tom joining us,” said Governor Martz. “He has a strong public and private sector background. His demonstrated leadership skills and knowledge of the issues most important to Montanans will be incredibly beneficial as we do the people’s work.”
Beck is a rancher from the Deer Lodge Valley. He was born in Deer Lodge in 1939, and graduated from Powell County High School in 1958. He also attended Montana State University-Bozeman.
“I am excited about the opportunity to join the Governor’s office to address policy issues,” said Senator Beck. “I look forward to working with the legislature to expand cooperation between the Governor’s Office and the Legislative Branch.”
Beck has served in the Montana Senate since 1987. From 1978-1986, he was a county commissioner for Powell County. As a county commissioner, he also served as President of the Montana Association of Counties in 1984-85.
“We have in place a team that provides the best possible services to the State of Montana,” said Governor Martz. “I welcome Tom to that team.”
Beck’s salary will be $60,000 annually. He replaces Mike Foster, who left the position in August to take a position as Senior Director for Advocacy for the Montana Region of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth Health System in Billings. Beck is married and has three grown children.
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