Hewy Woodman, a former city council member of Helena, has dedicated himself to fostering community engagement and improving access to information in the city. His commitment to connecting residents has made a lasting impact on the local landscape, as he continues to be an active participant in various community events.
Woodman’s journey in Helena began unexpectedly when he discovered the city during a drive. “I had driven down a cow pasture, and I hit Old Town. I saw the Davidson Dam and I said, ‘Oh my goodness,’” he recalled. This initial encounter ignited a passion for the area, prompting him to settle down and raise a family there.
The impetus to share local happenings led Woodman to establish a blog titled No Sleep in Helena. This platform quickly became a vital resource for residents seeking information about community events. “Being a young father, I tried to go around and collect information,” Woodman explained. His blog gained traction, encouraging local residents to contribute by sharing events, further solidifying his role as a community connector.
From Blogging to Volunteering
As Woodman immersed himself in Helena’s social fabric, he began volunteering at local events, which deepened his commitment to the community. “Once I started hanging around the events, I got drafted into volunteering,” he noted. His enthusiasm was fueled by mentorship from seasoned volunteers, who instilled in him a sense of purpose in serving the community.
This dedication prompted him to run for a seat on the Helena City Council, driven by his desire to enhance transparency and improve access to legal information. “The city was not providing the laws online,” he stated. After graduating from law school, Woodman was eager to make legal documents accessible, believing that sharing information would empower residents.
Elected in 2012 with no opposition, Woodman joined Mayor Mark Hall in leading the city. His primary focus was on making legal information available online, a challenge he embraced despite concerns about potential misuse of the data. “If you make that information open, you’re going to have people complain, but at least they can understand how that process worked,” he explained.
Transforming Helena Through Growth
During his three terms in office, Woodman played a vital role in navigating Helena’s significant growth. He initiated the city’s first social media account, which he transferred to city officials, recognizing the transformative power of digital communication. “Social media has transformed the way Helena exists,” he observed, noting that the community’s expansion necessitated new facilities and infrastructure.
After concluding his council tenure in November 2025, Woodman remains a steadfast presence at community events, often donning festive attire to engage with residents. His commitment to accessibility and interaction has made him a beloved figure in Helena, as he continues to nurture the connections he helped forge.
Former council member Laura Joseph, who worked alongside Woodman, praised his approach to governance. “He always did his research, he asked really good questions, and he looked into the issues in-depth,” she said, highlighting his dedication to understanding community sentiments.
Woodman’s journey from blogger to city leader illustrates the profound impact one individual can have on a community. His ongoing efforts to connect residents and promote transparency serve as a reminder of the importance of active civic engagement. As Helena continues to evolve, the contributions of individuals like Woodman will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its future.
