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Home My WebLink AboutYellowstone Historic Preservation Board - 2026 YO"Gtone County ComrMsslonem RECEIVED NOV wl 2025 BOARD APPLICATION FORM YELLOWSTONE COUNTY, MONTANA NAME aN �N�;�rT��s (� �r_c - PHONE: ADDRESS: 0i WORK PHONE: CITY; j tir EL STATE: 01-r- ZIP 5 3"l EMAIL ADDRESS 9I 77 iL- _j6:e¢" s,% BUSINESS OR JOB: BOARD OR COMMISSION APPLIED FOR: Yellowstone Historic Preservation Board Please describe your experience or background that you believe qualifies you for service on this Board or Commission (attach additional-sheets-if needed):- VLC- SE. 5(v c;)y cxp6X IFi cc 4�10 i3+cw_µ ;J, ' 4vi�-t j 4> 1, o4svr ry s r'P v 4.S A Why do you wish to serve on this Board or Commission? JACIL..1 p�ES� 1a4e1'�',�! y Z4�s�J - Additional information that you feel is-pertinent (attach additional sheets if needed): Signature: Return application to: Board of County Commissioners P.O. Box 35000 Billings, MT 59107-5000 OFFICE USE ONLY: APPOINTED: YES NO DATE TERM EXPIRATION DATE: To:YieHowstoneHistoric Preservation Board My name is Anthony(Tony) Contreraz. Please accept this document,the attached application, and two letters of recommendation as my request to be considered for selection as a representative and team member for the Laurel area with the Yellowstone Historic Preservation Board. Experience or background that qualifies me for service on the Board I have lived in Laurel for over 35 years, giving me a deep appreciation for the heritage and character of our community. My lifelong connection to Laurel has fostered a strong commitment to preserving its history and unique identity. My professional and volunteer experiences also reflect my dedication to community service and historic preservation. I currently serve as a full-time member of Laurel EMS for the City of Laurel and as co-chair of the Billings Mexican Fiesta, one of the longest-running cultural events in Montana. Last year, my co-chair and I collaborated with the Western Heritage Center to archive and display the history of the Fiesta. We gathered more than 100 newspaper articles and over 400 photographs, spending many hours interviewing and recording oral histories. We used these items, stories, and materials to help curate a public exhibit highlighting the event's long-term impact on the region.This work deepened my understanding of how historical documentation and storytelling strengthen community connections. This also lead to a secondary project where we participated in the Western Heritage Center's "High Noon" program,where we gave a in person presentation showcasing the Fiesta and the historical histories and impacts of the Hispanic culture on Billings and the surrounding area. My familiarity with local historic sites reflects not only my interest in preservation but also my desire to share the lesser-known pieces of our history.These experiences have equipped me with a strong foundation in research and public engagement—essential skills for serving effectively on the Yellowstone Historic Preservation Board. Why I wish to serve on the Board Laurel's history is one of resilience, collaboration, and cultural diversity. I want to contribute to preserving that legacy by ensuring that both our early landmarks and more recent community stories are documented and celebrated. My passion lies not just in preserving history but in sharing how our town's roots have shaped the community and area we know today. Serving on the Yellowstone Historic Preservation Board would allow me to continue my commitment-to education, preservation, and community engagement. My goal is to ensure that Laurel's and the surrounding areas stories—both well-known and hidden-=remain protected, accessible, and relevant for generations to come. Please let me know if you have any questions or would like to meet in person. Thank you for your consideration. Tony Contreraz (406)672-8550 tong contreraz1177@gmail.jt6m October 29, 2025 Yellowstone Historic Preservation Board Re: Tony Contreraz Dear Members of the Yellowstone Historic Preservation Board, am honored to write this letter in enthusiastic support of Tony Contreraz's application to serve as a representative on the Yellowstone Historic Preservation Board. I have known Tony personally and professionally for approximately twenty years, and during that time I have come to know him as a person of integrity, dedication, and genuine commitment to preserving the character and history of our communities. On a personal level, Tony and his wife have been pillars of the Laurel community. Their family's active involvement in local initiatives and their consistent willingness to give their time and talents speak to the deep values that drive Tony's community service. His sense of responsibility and follow-through are qualities that would greatly benefit the board's mission to protect and promote Yellowstone County's historical and cultural assets. Professionally, I have had the privilege of working alongside Tony for ten years on the Billings Mexican Fiesta planning committee, where he served in multiple capacities ranging from kid activity coordinator, vendor coordinator and most recently co-chair. With the efforts of our current leadership, the event not only strengthened cultural engagement but also preserved the historical authenticity that makes the Fiesta the region's longest-running cultural celebration. His ability to collaborate, problem-solve, and inspire others ensured that the event remained both historically grounded and community-driven. Tony's commitment to preservation extends beyond events. I had the opportunity to witness his and Dallas's (Tony's co-chair) archival project collaboration with the Western Heritage Center, which showcased historical artifacts and personal narratives tied to our local heritage. That project left a lasting impression on me because of the care and respect they bring to storytelling through history. The resulting display sparked thoughtful community conversations and renewed appreciation for the area's cultural legacy-exactly the kind of public engagement that aligns with the board's goals. Through his leadership, partnership-building skills, and authentic enthusiasm for Montana's history, Tony has consistently demonstrated the qualities necessary for effective service on the Yellowstone Historic Preservation Board. He brings not only experience but also an understanding of how history connects today's communities with their shared past. I wholeheartedly recommend Tony Contreraz for appointment to the Yellowstone Historic Preservation Board. His integrity, work ethic, and deep-rooted commitment to preservation make him an outstanding candidate for this role. Sincerely, Mary J. Alv ez Mexican Fiesta Ladies Booth Coor Z' ator 618 Clarks River Road Laurel, MT 59044 maryjalvarez@mac.com 714-334-9452 Retired in 2008, worked 35 years securitizing Mortgage Backed Securities in the Secondary Markets for FNMA, FHLMC and GNMA for Wall Street monthly settlements October 27,2025 To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to recommend Anthony Contreraz for appointment as representative to the Yellowstone Historic Preservation Board. I am the EMS Chief for Laurel Ambulance service and the Education Coordinator for Big Sky EMS Education. I have had the privilege of supervising Tony for approximately two years in his role as a volunteer and full-time EMT for the City of Laurel. During this time, I have come to know him as a highly dependable, engaged and community minded professional who goes above and beyond in every aspect of his work. Tony consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication to both his profession and the people he serves. In addition to his full-time responsibilities, he volunteers as an instructor for Big Sky EMS Education, sharing his knowledge and experience to train and mentor others in emergency medical care. Tony also devotes his personal time to community education programs and outreach efforts through Laurel EMS, often taking the lead to help strengthen our city's connection with its residents. Tony's deep passion for Laurel and the surrounding area is very apparent, as seen in our''station"trips where Tony is constantly educating our department on various parts of Laurel, historical points of interest and his exceptional knowledge of the surrounding area. Outside of his professional role,Tony's leadership as co-chair of the Billings Mexican Fiesta has shown his strong commitment to preserving local culture and history. His work with the Western Heritage Center to document the Fiesta's legacy stands as an example of his drive to protect the traditions that make our communities unique. Tony brings the same passion, responsibility and positive attitude to every project he undertakes. I have no doubt that Tony would contribute meaningful perspective and energy to the Yellowstone Historic Preservation Board. His combination of professional discipline, community involvement and historical appreciation makes him an outstanding candidate. I offer my highest recommendation and full support. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me with any questions. Sincerely, Woo Lyndy Gurchiek 406-670-5021 lyndygurchiek@yahoo.com