Applicants sought for county assessor

SANDPOINT — Wanted: A few good candidates interested in property values, tax assessment and ensuring both follow Idaho laws.

The successful candidates could be tapped to replace Grant Dorman as Bonner County assessor, who is stepping down in early June.

Dorman announced his resignation May 9, saying health concerns prevented him from continuing in the office he's held for four months. The assessor said it has been his pleasure to serve in the office, albeit for a short time. However, recently discovered health issues placed him at short-term high risk of a stroke as well as the long-term risk of associated health concerns.

“The best course of action to reduce these risks requires immediate, full-time and ongoing attention," he said.

Dorman's resignation takes effect June 2.

Under Idaho Code, the central committee of the same political party as the vacating elected official is tasked with submitting three candidates to the board of county commissioners. The board then selects one of the applicants for the open seat.

Because Dorman submitted his resignation well in advance, Bonner County Republican Central Committee Chairman Scott Herndon said the board can begin the nomination process immediately and ensure a smooth transition.

The BCRCC wants "to cast a wide net for applicants throughout Bonner County" and invites any person who is interested in filling the position to submit their application to the central committee.

Anyone who is interested in becoming the next Bonner County assessor is encouraged to submit a letter of interest, resume and contact information to the BCRCC.

"Time is of the essence due to the impending resignation of the current assessor," Herndon said.

Letters of interest are sought by the end of Monday, May 22.

Assessor candidates must be at least 21 years of age, a U.S. citizen and must have resided in Bonner County at least one year immediately prior to being appointed.

After interviews, BCRCC members will nominate three names to submit to county commissioners. Commissioners will then appoint one of the nominees within 15 days of receiving nominations.

The new assessor will be expected to fill the position at that time and will serve the remainder of the current elected term which ends in January 2027.

The assessor is primarily responsible for assessing property values, including personal property, uniformly and to the specifications of Idaho law in a fair and equitable manner. Property taxes are then used to fund local taxing districts like schools, libraries, cities, the county itself, and fire districts, sewer and water districts.

Letters can be emailed to chair@bonnergop.org, or by contacting Herndon at 208-610-2680.