Sarah Michael, a Democrat, represents northern Blaine County on the three-member Blaine County Commission.
By SARAH MICHAEL
Today, June 20, 2008, I want to make public my plans to resign my position as a Blaine County commissioner effective July 1, 2008. I leave with mixed emotions. The past 7.5 years have been the most rewarding of my professional career. I want to warmly thank the people of Blaine County for their constant support and graciousness whether in agreement or difference with my positions. People have, on occasion, asked why would I want to take on such a "thankless" job? The truth is that there has been no end to the number of "thanks" that I have received for serving.
I am leaving the board in order to explore wild places and backpack new mountain ranges with my husband, Bob Jonas. This is our passion. We'll be in Alaska this summer sea kayaking and then leave in September for Asia, spending time on foot traversing the Nepal Himalayas. I turned 62 years old this week. Although I feel younger and have been accused of being the energizer bunny, I am slowing down. Last summer, my backpack felt heavier. In fact, it was downright rough slogging up some trails. There are some things that shouldn't be postponed when you reach a certain age.
Being a county commissioner offers numerous opportunities for involvement in the community, helping to shape the future through growth policies, wildlife and water quality protection, public transportation, and important quality-of-life issues. I've worked with many individuals, groups and organizations. All of these aspects of being a county commissioner have been fulfilling for me. It has been an honor to serve.
So who will take my place? Under Idaho law, a replacement must be sworn in within 30 days of a vacancy. Because county commissioner is a partisan office, the law dictates that within 15 days the Blaine County Democratic Committee nominates three Democratic candidates to the governor. These candidates must live in the 3rd County Commission District, or in the north part of the county. The governor, in turn, has 15 days to appoint one member from the list to fill the vacancy. With many citizens interested in public service, I am confident that a well-qualified candidate will be chosen and will bring new skills and perspective to the outstanding team of elected officials at Blaine County. Over the next three months, I will assist in any way for a smooth transition in bringing on a new county commissioner.
I would like to acknowledge my colleagues, Commissioners Tom Bowman and Larry Schoen, who are truly exceptional public servants with whom it has been a delight to serve. They are smart, hardworking, unfailingly courteous to the public, and have excellent political judgment. Mike McNees, our county administrator, adds his 30 years of local government management experience, sense of humor and calm demeanor to this strong team. I will miss working with them greatly and the other elected officials who serve Blaine County. Again, thank you citizens of Blaine County for the opportunity to serve you for the past 7.5 years.
