The Blaine County Republican Central Committee announced Monday that it will accept applications to replace retiring Sheriff Walt Femling until Friday, Jan. 28.
Femling, a Republican, announced his resignation on Jan. 5, for reasons related to his health. It becomes effective March 1.
Under Idaho law, the central committee will forward the names of up to three candidates for the post to the Blaine County commissioners, who will select a new sheriff from the GOP list.
Committee Chair Ed Terrazas said the committee hasn't yet received any applications, but he has talked to five people interested in the job.
The law does not require that applicants be Republicans, or even certified law enforcement officers. It does require that a sheriff in Idaho be at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen and a resident of the county represented for at least one year prior to taking office.
Two Blaine County law enforcement officers, both Republicans, publicly announced their intentions to seek the job last week. They are sheriff's Chief Deputy Gene Ramsey and Hailey police Lt. Steve England.
In a news release, the central committee stated that interested candidates need to send a letter of interest, a statement of qualifications and a résumé. The information can be sent by e-mail to blainecountyrepublicans@gmail.com or by regular mail to: Blaine County Republican Central Committee, Box 866, Ketchum, ID 83340.
Terrazas said he didn't know when the names of candidates selected by the committee will be forwarded to the county commissioners, and timing may depend on whether the committee holds a public forum for the candidates.
"We have had suggestions for a forum so candidates can answer questions from the public," Terrazas said. "This is an important decision and we want to make this as open as possible."
Terry Smith: tsmith@mtexpress.com
Walt Femling
