Shelby Beach’s 25-year career with the Flathead County Solid Waste Department stands as a testament to dedication, resilience, and community spirit. Originally from Kila and now a longtime resident of Columbia Falls, Shelby’s roots in the Flathead Valley run deep. She’s an avid fisher—both summer and ice fishing—and cherishes time spent with her large, local family.
Her journey with Flathead County Solid Waste began with an unexpected twist of fate. Initially passed over for being “too young,” Shelby didn’t let that deter her. A few weeks later, when the original hire left, the county called her back—and she’s never looked back.
Working at the Scalehouse, Shelby is often the first and last face people see when they visit the landfill. During the busiest summer months, she interacts with 700 to 800 people a day, a perfect fit for her outgoing, jovial personality. “I love that I get to meet and see so many people from our community,” she says. “You really get a chance to know people.”
Her enthusiasm extends beyond the public. With a close-knit team of just two or three coworkers in the Scalehouse, Shelby values the camaraderie and trust they share. “We all rely on each other,” she says. “I’m lucky—I really enjoy the people I work with.”
Looking ahead, Shelby plans to stay with the county for another decade, citing its unbeatable benefits. But eventually, she dreams of a future filled with traveling to visit her children who have moved outside the Valley and taking extended camping trips with her husband.
Shelby Beach’s career is more than just years clocked in—it’s a story of commitment, connection, and community. As she marks 25 years of service, Flathead County Solid Waste isn’t just celebrating an employee; they’re celebrating a woman who has become a cornerstone of the community she serves.