Hewy Woodman has dedicated himself to fostering community connections in Helena, a city that has become his home since he first stumbled upon it years ago. Formerly a city council member, Woodman’s commitment to bridging gaps within the community extends beyond mere duty; it is a personal mission that he continues to pursue.
Woodman first encountered Helena by sheer chance, driving through what he describes as a “cow pasture” before reaching Old Town. Captivated by the area’s charm, he began exploring and ultimately decided to settle down and raise his family there. “I saw the Davidson Dam and I said, ‘Oh my goodness,’” Woodman recalled, highlighting the moment that sparked his connection to the city.
With a growing family and a desire to keep his relatives informed about local happenings, Woodman launched his blog, No Sleep in Helena. This platform quickly evolved into a vital resource for residents seeking information about events and activities in the area. “Being a young father with a young family, I tried to go around and collect information,” he explained. The blog attracted positive feedback, prompting him to expand its content as locals began sharing events with him.
As Woodman became more involved in local events, he found himself volunteering and discovering a new passion for community service. His enthusiasm was fueled by encouragement from seasoned volunteers who helped him understand the importance of giving back. “Once I started hanging around the events, I got drafted into volunteering,” he said. This experience solidified his commitment to serve the community he had come to love.
Woodman’s drive to increase accessibility to information also motivated his decision to run for a position on the Helena City Council. In 2012, he was elected without opposition, joining Mayor Mark Hall in local governance. Woodman’s primary focus was to provide easy access to city laws and regulations, which had previously been challenging for residents to obtain.
“I think what motivated me initially was the city not providing the laws online,” Woodman explained. He aimed to make legal information freely available, combating the barriers that had existed for so long. His efforts were not without challenges; concerns arose about the potential for increased litigation if residents had unrestricted access to legal documents. Woodman countered these fears by advocating for transparency, arguing that informed citizens would foster a better understanding of local governance.
During his tenure, Woodman oversaw significant growth in Helena, navigating the complexities that come with a rapidly expanding community. He was instrumental in establishing the city’s first social media presence, recognizing the transformative power of digital communication. “I think social media has transformed the way Helena exists,” he stated, noting that the city’s expansion had made it necessary to build additional facilities to accommodate its growing population.
Although Woodman’s time on the council ended in November 2025, he continues to engage with the community, attending events and supporting local initiatives. His approach to governance has earned him respect among his peers, including former council member Laura Joseph. “He always did his research, he asked really good questions,” Joseph noted, commending Woodman’s thorough approach to decision-making.
Throughout his journey, Woodman has remained dedicated to his original mission: ensuring that residents feel connected and informed. His willingness to engage with community members, regardless of differing opinions, stands out as a hallmark of his service. “I noted what I didn’t like about politicians, that at some point they cut off and stop talking to people,” Woodman said, emphasizing his commitment to open dialogue.
In a city often described as a special place to call home, the contributions of individuals like Hewy Woodman play a crucial role in enhancing the community’s spirit. As Helena continues to grow, Woodman’s legacy of connection and accessibility will likely remain a cornerstone of its identity.
