Meet Shannon

I’m running for Custer County Commissioner because local government works best when it listens first, communicates clearly, and manages resources responsibly.

Listening first means meeting people where they are — asking questions, reading the room, and making sure concerns are understood before decisions are made.

Practical solutions means focusing on what works — clear priorities, strong documentation, and a steady plan that improves audit posture and readiness over time.

Accountability means follow-through — commitments tracked to completion, progress shared in plain language, and respect for taxpayer dollars. It’s the same mindset I live by at home and in my professional work.

Relevant Experience

I bring over 20 years of experience in technology and security leadership, where audit readiness, accountability, and follow-through are daily requirements—not optional.

That background shapes how I approach county governance: clear priorities, strong documentation, corrective actions tracked to completion, and plain-language updates the public can trust.

Shannon Shields

Local Leadership Matters

I’m focused on practical, measurable improvements—stronger audit readiness, clearer accountability, and transparent county government that serves the people who live here.

Who I Am

A little more about my background, values, and what guides how I serve.

Rooted in faith and community

I’m grounded in country values and a quiet faith that emphasizes responsibility, humility, and service. I believe leadership means showing up, telling the truth, and doing the work even when no one is watching.

Professional, practical experience

My professional background is in technology and security, where accuracy, accountability, and follow-through matter. That experience shapes how I approach county governance—define the issue, document it, fix it, and track progress.

Focused on trust and results

I’m running because I believe Custer County can strengthen its audit posture, improve transparency, and better position itself for funding opportunities— while respecting taxpayers and local priorities.

Why I’m running

Custer County deserves a commissioner who brings steady leadership, clear communication, and follow-through. County government touches the things we rely on every day—roads, public safety, budgeting, and long-term planning.

I’m stepping forward because I believe we can strengthen fundamentals like audit compliance and corrective-action tracking, which improves public trust and helps position the county to qualify for and compete for grant dollars when funding is available.

This campaign is not about political noise. It’s about practical work, measurable progress, and making sure local voices are part of local decisions.

What I believe

  • Transparency builds trust and reduces confusion.
  • Accountability means owning follow-through, not just making plans.
  • Fiscal responsibility protects taxpayers and strengthens eligibility for funding.
  • Listening first leads to better decisions—and fewer surprises.
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My approach

County government works best when goals are clear, responsibilities are defined, and progress is visible. My focus is a practical governance style that prioritizes execution.

Clear priorities

Focus on the fundamentals: audit readiness, grant competitiveness, and transparent communication that helps residents stay informed.

Measurable progress

Use plain-language status updates and simple tracking so corrective actions and commitments do not get lost across cycles.

Respectful leadership

Work collaboratively with county staff and community members to solve problems and improve processes—without unnecessary division.

Rooted in the community

I value the Black Hills for the same reasons many of you do—our independence, our neighbors, and the shared responsibility we feel for this place and the people in it.

If you have concerns about county operations, audit readiness, or how we can be more competitive for funding, I want to hear from you. This campaign starts with listening.

Let’s talk

Share what you think county government should focus on next—and what you feel is not working today.

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