Tuss: Doesn't expect to leave Havre for Helena

The director of the regional economic development organization based in Havre said this morning that he doesn't expect to be packing to move to Helena, despite reports he is being considered for a position in the next governor's cabinet — for which being listed he considers an honor.

"I don't see myself going anywhere, " Paul Tuss said. "I don't see myself leaving Bear Paw Development. "

Lee Newspapers published an article Sunday listing names it says are being considered, including Tuss as director of the state Department of Commerce. Tuss has served as executive director of Bear Paw Development Corp. for more than a decade.

Kevin O'Brien, deputy director of transition for Gov. -elect Steve Bullock, said Bullock and the transition team are not making any comment on potential candidates.

Tuss, who made an unsuccessful bid for Montana secretary of state in 2000, also serves on the Montana Board of Regents of Higher Education and has served on numerous boards, agencies and councils including as past president of the Montana Economic Developers Association.

A political science graduate from the University of Montana, Tuss was director of the economic development agency Glacier Action and Involvement Now in Cut Bank before taking his position at Bear Paw in 2000.

Tuss said Bear Paw has a wonderful staff and working environment, and he greatly enjoys the work he does there.

Even if he does not become an official part of Bullock's staff, Tuss said, he expects he will be involved in economic development during the governor-elect's administration.

"I think you can do as much good for the administration in locations that are not in Helena, " Tuss said.