Alex Sundali and Kim Nilsen, the chair and vice chair of the Blaine County School District board of trustees, both plan to seek another term in the May 16 trustee election.
As of Tuesday, no one had filed with the school district, although Sundali and Nilsen told the Mountain Express they will run for re-election. The seats held by Nilsen and Sundali carry three-year terms of office. The seat held by Mari Beth Matthews, who could not be reached by press time, carries a one-year term.
Anyone wishing to run has until 5 p.m. April 14 to file a declaration of candidacy with the district. Five supporters from the candidate's area must sign the declaration. Candidacy forms are available at the district office in Hailey.
"I still feel I have a lot to contribute and a lot to learn," Sundali, of Ketchum, said.
Completing her first term, Sundali was elected to the board in 2003 and elected chairwoman in 2005. She represents Zone 4, the district in the northern half of Blaine County.
With bachelor's degree from New York University, Sundali worked as a substitute teacher in the district before her election to the board. Sundali owns and operates a construction business in Ketchum with her husband.
Sundali views the state property tax issue—as it relates to the Blaine County School District's funding—as a forefront issue. She said she would work to address affordable housing for employees and secure property for future schools.
Nilsen, a general contractor who lives in Hailey, represents Zone 2, the district in southern Hailey. He was elected vice-chair in 2005.
"There are some things that are still hanging out there that I want to finish up," Nilsen said.
His interests rest in the academies and ensuring state funding for Blaine County schools.
"There is no right way to do the wrong thing. And, what (the Legislature) has been considering and proposing is the wrong thing for Blaine County," Nilsen said. "It is not just Blaine County it is going to hurt, it's school districts across the state."
A third seat representing Zone 3, which generally represents the northern side of Hailey and a portion of Blaine County, is also up for election. Matthews holds the Zone 3 seat. She was appointed in September 2005 to fill the unexpired term of office left on the board by the resignation of Kathy Pruett.
Alex Sundali
