Nielsen sworn in to District 2 post

SANDPOINT — Bonner County Commissioner Mike Nielsen is intent on restoring faith in local government through transparency.

“I believe the more information we can put online will keep the public informed,” said Nielsen, who was sworn into office on Monday as the board’s District 2 representative.

Nielsen, a Republican from Coolin, defeated former Commission Chairman Joe Young in last year’s primary election and prevailed in the general election against Democrat Brian Orr.

Nielsen joins District 1 Commissioner Cornel Rasor, who won election in 2008, and District 3 Commissioner Lewis Rich, who won election in 2006. Rasor moved to appoint Rich chairman on Monday and Nielsen seconded.

Rich was victorious in his re-election bid, as were fellow incumbents Clerk Marie Scott, Treasurer Cheryl Piehl, Coroner Kitt Rose and Assessor Jerry Clemons.

Up for election in 2012 are posts held by Rasor, Prosecutor Louis Marshall and Sheriff Daryl Wheeler.

As the board’s newest commissioner, Nielsen would like to see the county’s $55 million spending plan posted on the county’s website.

“I’d like to have our budget online so people can look at it. I’d like to see the revenue online and I’d like to put the expenses online,” said Nielsen.

The county has been dogged for years by rumors of secret stashes of cash, but it’s not a rumor he subscribes to.

“It’s not hidden; it’s there. You’ve just got to know how the accounting system is set up and where to look,” Nielsen said.

Nielsen also plans to hold the line on property taxes.

“I don’t want to raise taxes and I don’t want to kill any programs or lay anybody off if I don’t have to. I’m going to be looking very hard at expenditures to be sure that it’s absolutely necessary, the project’s revenue neutral or is required or mandatory,” Nielsen said.