Horton seeks District 1 BOCC seat

SANDPOINT — Butch Horton is running for Bonner County commissioner in District 1.

“Our beautiful county is growing rapidly,” Horton said in a press release announcing his bid. “We need clear vision and good judgment to guide us into the future. We need more cooperation and accountability and less conflict.”

Horton, who lives in Sagle, served in the U.S. Navy as an operation specialist. He owns Northern Property Inspection, which provides home inspections and property maintenance in North Idaho. He has held leadership positions in the auto, hospitality and commercial construction industries. As a young entrepreneur he started and ran a business that sold educational software to the home computer market.

Horton brings conservative values, cooperation, and leadership skills to county government. He said he will listen and lead with respect as well as with conservative values.

“All voices will be heard,” he said. “I will make informed decisions with good judgment and hold myself accountable for the results. Bonner County matters.”

Raised in a military family, Horton said he learned early on that public service is the key to protecting the county’s way of life. “Serving others through church and community is a priority to our family,” he added. “With good ideas and hard work, we can keep our county on the right road forward.”

Horton said he believes growth can be managed to ensure the best for all in Bonner County.

“The key is leadership, clear vision, sound fiscal policy and accountability,” he said. “I have the work ethic, education, background and commitment to be your next county commissioner in District 1. Bonner County matters and I promise to hold myself accountable to the highest standard.”

Wise use of tax dollars will help provide the best services for the county’s residents and address the 10 percent growth seen in the area since 2010.

“We must manage with clear vision more cooperation and less conflict,” he said.

That growth demands smart planning and zoning, said Horton.

“Through partnerships and collaboration we can balance residential, commercial, and agricultural needs,” he added. “We must make decisions for the future to avoid costly mistakes.”

Natural resources are key to the area’s quality of life and drive its economy, Horton said.

“We must manage our forests and our water,” he added. “The county must include all interests to make the most of our millions of acres of state and federal lands.”

That means wise land management to reduce costly wildfires and restore the region’s forests. It also means working with all interests to enhance recreational opportunities, he said.

“With vision and leadership we can improve our economy and preserve our natural resources,” added Horton.

Horton and his wife, Malinda, a nurse practitioner, have a blended family of seven grown children. He earned a bachelor’s degree in economics at the University of Idaho. The couple love the outdoors and enjoy spending time skiing, hiking, and enjoying the lake. They attend Cedar Hills Church in Sandpoint.