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Editor's note: Throughout the coming weeks, the Missoulian will profile state legislative candidates in western Montana who face opponents on Nov. 4.

Each candidate was asked to provide autobiographical information, and answer the following questions. Some responses were edited for length. All legislative Q&As will be available on Missoulian.com; just click on Elections 2008.

Gravel pits: How would you deal with the issue of gravel pits being located next to subdivisions? Do you think environmental studies and public input should be required of all gravel pits? Should the state have the authority to put limits on gravel operations based on those things?

University building program: The University of Montana plans to seek more money from the state for extensive building programs, even as projections show that student enrollment will decline. Do you support or oppose that funding, and why?

Prescription drug abuse: Recently, the Missoulian printed a series of articles detailing a sharp increase in the abuse of prescription drugs. Do you support or oppose a prescription drug registry and why? What about allocating state money for treatment programs?

Energy costs: Montanans could be facing record-high energy prices this fall and winter. Is there anything the state can or should do to mitigate those prices or help people who may have difficulty heating their homes?

Top priorities: What is the single most important piece of legislation you would introduce, and why?

Timothy Linehan, a Democrat, is running for House District 2 in Lincoln County. Republican incumbent Chas Vincent also is a candidate, but did not respond to the Missoulian's questionnaire.

Timothy Linehan

Office sought: House District 2

Political party: Democrat

Age: 46

Birthplace: Weymouth, Mass.

Home: Yaak

Occupation: Outfitter/guide

Family: Spouse, Joanne; bird; dogs, Lily and Gracie

Education: B.A., University of New Hampshire

Past employment: Outfitter-guide for 20 years

Gravel pits: I believe some measure of oversight is a good idea regarding gravel pits, but also believe the state should be careful about one-size-fits-all legislation and that each location should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. For instance, I believe public input and an environmental study would be warranted if a pit was proposed next to a river or school, but not necessarily if a pit was proposed away from the river, homes, schools, etc.

University building program: I enthusiastically support funding education, which often includes necessary infrastructure improvements. But holding the fiscal line will also be one of my priorities. At this point, I think my support or opposition would be based on the request and the budget situation.

Prescription drug abuse: Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem in our communities. I'm not certain a prescription drug registry would actually help solve the problem. I would consider allocating state money for treatment programs since in many instances funding treatment has proven to be less expensive for taxpayers compared to the alternative judicial, incarceration etc.

Energy costs: Under very stringent criteria I would support helping families, seniors and individuals of low income with energy needs.

Top priorities: The single most important piece of legislation I would introduce would be legislation to continue increased funding for public education without raising property taxes. I believe public education is the backbone of a vibrant economy and strong democracy, and we are failing to that end in this country and this state. We have a responsibility to our children and young people to provide the best educational opportunities they deserve.

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