Matt Scott of Cody has filed to run as a GOP candidate for Park County Commission. Scott, 36, joins five additional candidates for three open seats on the commission.

“It’s been something I’ve been interested in for the past six years,” said Scott, owner of Great Scott Construction in Cody. “I was born and raised in Park County and my grandparents [on his mom’s side] are from Powell.”

Park County Commission incumbents Dossie Overfield and Lloyd Thiel have filed to run for the three open seats in the 2022 primary. In addition, Angie Johnson, Scott Steward and Keith Dahlem have filed their candidacies with the county elections office. All of the candidates, including Scott, are registered as Republicans.

“I think it’s time for the next generation to get involved and take some ownership in our future in Park County and in Wyoming,” said Scott, who has two children, ages 3 and 5.

One area Scott said he’d like to see expanded is trade curriculum in public education. However, Scott made clear he believes the county’s education system is top-notch. 

“I think there’s a lot of good programs in the county,” said Scott, who has a science degree from the University of Wyoming. “Off the top of my head, I can’t think of a glaring lack. I would like to maybe look at developing  more youth programs in the community.

“We could do more [toward] keeping our youth engaged,” he continued. “I know it’s not just Cody. It’s Powell as well. I’m not gonna lie and say there’s not a few concerns about education [but[ I felt like growing up, our schools were very good.”

Scott, who has worked in the banking and insurance industries, said he’s concerned about the growing issue of high property valuations, which impact retirees on fixed income particularly hard.

“I would like to help preserve a way of life that we’ve loved,” Scott said, noting he encounters the rising costs of homes as a principal of a construction company. “I would hate to have situations arise where people have to move because they cannot afford taxes. I live in Wyoming because of the quality of life. If I can be involved in ensuring the quality of life for my kids and my grandkids, I would be very happy.”

Returning to the idea of providing school students who are not interested in attending college with training in trades, Scott said he encounters opportunities daily for jobs in construction. 

“We’re really struggling to get younger people involved and interested in the trades,” he said.

With his science degree and construction company, along with experience in the financial industry, Scott said he would bring a “unique perspective” to the Park County Commission.

“There isn’t a specific issue that prompted me to run,” he said. “But I do have some good skills and qualities that make me a good candidate.”

The deadline for filing with the county clerk for this year’s Aug. 16 primary election is May 27, 2022.