Commission appeals for county board members

County Commissioner Jeanne Whalen is urging members of the community to consider volunteering your time to serve on the boards that form a vital cog in the wheel of the county’s affairs. Currently, she says, two positions are open – and, as can often be the case, the commission is experiencing issues in filling both.

“Our county runs on its boards,” Whalen says. “These volunteers perform an important function by managing the facilities and activities that make Crook County such a great place to live.”

Whalen explains that, while boards such as those for the school, museum and medical services are elected by the people, others are entirely appointed by the county commissioners. There are also some for which the commission selects just one or two members of the full board.

“A couple times a year, the commission needs to fill vacancies due to term limits or a member’s life changes. We may have zero or only one candidate apply to fill that spot,” she says.

“We don’t want to just pick a person to fill a seat, we want to pick the best person who brings their expertise to the work the board is already doing.”

At the present time, the commission is seeking a sportsman or hunter to serve on the Predator Management District board, which meets a few times a year.

“Do you trap or hunt? Support the Muley Fanatics, the National Turkey Federation or a similar group?” she asks. “We want you to apply for that board.”

An opening also exists on the county’s Land Use Planning and Zoning Commission, which meets monthly to create recommendations for land development policy and also addresses federal activities.

“Do you make your living off our public lands? Do you care about the Endangered Species Act? Are you a member of Farm Bureau or a livestock organization? Are you a contractor?” Whalen asks. “We need your knowledge.”

Whalen points out that the county boards provide a unique opportunity to guide how your tax dollars are being spent by taking part in the management of budgets. She urges members of the community to visit the county website and take a look at the boards at work in Crook County, including ones focused on family violence, promotion and the fair.

“Call a member and ask about what they do. Turn off the TV, get involved, work with others for a common cause,” she says.

“There are opportunities to use your talents and passion to make each board the best one possible. Just volunteer.”