Two candidates compete for Lemhi County Commission seat

SALMON – Two Lemhi County residents are campaigning against each other for a seat on the Lemhi County Commission.

Rick Carlson and John Blayden are running for a two-year term. Both candidates are Republican.

EastIdahoNews.com sent the same eight questions to each county candidate. Their responses, listed below, were required to be 250 words or less. EastIdahoNews.com is publishing the answers in their entirety, and without any grammatical or style editing.

Blayden did not answer multiple requests for answers on the questionnaire. If we hear back from him, we will add them.

Tell us about yourself — include information about your family, career, education, volunteer work and any prior experience in public office.

Carlson: I am a native Idahoan and a proud graduate of Salmon High School. After completing high school, I enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served my country with honor and dedication. Following my military service, I pursued higher education at Boise State University, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice.
Returning to my hometown of Salmon, I gained valuable experience as a Big Game guide and ranch hand. However, my passion for upholding the law led me to join the Salmon Police Department.

With a career spanning 25 years, I have served in various law enforcement roles, including positions with the Ada County Sheriff’s Department, Salmon Police Department, Lemhi County Sheriff’s Department, and Idaho Fish and Game as a Senior Conservation Officer. Outside of my professional life, I am a devoted father to my only daughter and her new husband.
 
While I do not have prior experience in public office, my extensive law enforcement background, dedication to community service, and education in Criminal Justice have equipped me with the necessary skills and knowledge to serve effectively. I am passionate about ensuring the safety and well-being of fellow members of my community and am eager to contribute to the betterment of our great county in any capacity possible.

Why are you seeking political office? Briefly explain your political platform.

Carlson: I am seeking the position of Lemhi County Commissioner because I have a strong desire to be actively engaged in local governance and ensure that our local government remains accountable to the people it serves. I believe that it is essential to have transparency, responsiveness, and integrity in our local government, just as we expect from our state and national representatives.

My political platform focuses on two key pillars: accountability and representation. Firstly, I am committed to holding local government entities accountable for their actions, decisions, and use of resources. I firmly believe that the citizens of Lemhi County deserve to have a transparent and efficient government that operates in their best interests. I will work to implement measures that promote fiscal responsibility, ethical conduct, and open communication with the community.

Secondly, I aim to ensure that the voices of the people of Lemhi County are heard and represented in the decision-making processes. I will actively seek input from residents, community organizations, and businesses to understand their concerns, needs, and aspirations. By fostering a collaborative and inclusive approach, I will work towards developing policies and initiatives that reflect the diverse perspectives and priorities of our community.

What areas in your county need immediate improvement? What actions will you take to address those needs?

Carlson: In Lemhi County, like everywhere else, one area that requires immediate improvement is government accountability. As an advocate for transparency and responsible governance, I firmly believe in implementing term limits for all politicians. The concept of public service was never intended to be a lifelong career, and our founding fathers did not design it as such.

I will actively work towards implementing term limits for politicians. This measure will promote fresh perspectives, prevent the entrenchment of power, and encourage a more diverse and dynamic representation. By establishing term limits, we can ensure that elected officials remain connected to the needs and aspirations of the community they serve.

I will prioritize the establishment of mechanisms that enhance government accountability. This includes promoting transparency in decision-making processes. By holding our local government accountable for their actions, we can build trust and confidence among the residents of Lemhi County.

In addition to these actions, I will actively engage with the community to understand their specific concerns and needs. Through town hall meetings, surveys, and open dialogues, I will create opportunities for residents to voice their opinions and provide input on areas that require improvement. This collaborative approach will ensure that the actions taken align with the priorities and aspirations of the community.

By focusing on government accountability and through transparency, community engagement, and responsible decision-making, we can address immediate needs and work towards a better future for all residents.

What are the greatest long term challenges facing people in your county? What is your plan to meet those challenges?

Carlson: In Lemhi County, like many other places, there are significant long-term challenges that impact our community. Two of the primary challenges we face are meaningful employment opportunities and affordable housing. These issues are complex and require careful consideration to ensure they are addressed without compromising the quality of life we aspire to.

I believe that addressing the long-term challenges of over taxation and overregulation requires local action and holding our state and federal officials accountable. I will work diligently to ensure that our local government operates efficiently and responsibly, utilizing taxpayer funds effectively and advocating for sensible regulations that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship and community well-being.

Additionally, I will actively engage with state and federal representatives to advocate for policies that align with the principles and needs of our community. By fostering open lines of communication and building strong relationships, we can work towards reducing burdensome regulations and creating a more favorable business climate that supports economic growth and job creation.

Addressing these long-term challenges requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. By actively engaging with stakeholders, promoting economic development, and holding officials accountable, we can work towards a brighter future for the residents of Lemhi County.

How will you best represent the views of your constituents – even those with differing political views? How will you communicate directly withconstituants?

Carlson: As a representative, my primary responsibility is to serve and represent all constituents, regardless of their political affiliations or differing views. To effectively represent the views of my constituents, I will prioritize open communication and active engagement with the public.

To ensure effective representation, I will employ an educated and common-sense approach to addressing issues. I will thoroughly research and analyze complex matters, seeking input from experts and stakeholders. By applying critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making, I will strive to find practical solutions that benefit the entire community, transcending political divisions.

In summary, my commitment to open communication, active listening, and an educated common-sense approach will guide my representation of all constituents, regardless of their political views. By engaging in constructive dialogue, seeking common ground, and staying accessible, I aim to effectively represent the interests and aspirations of the diverse community I serve.

What parts of the county budget could use more funding? Where are places in the budget that cuts could be made?

Carlson: The allocation of funds in a county budget requires careful consideration to ensure that resources are used effectively and efficiently. While it is generally true that all areas could benefit from more funding, it is important to prioritize and make strategic decisions to maximize the impact of available resources.

In reviewing the county budget, I would prioritize areas that directly impact the well-being and safety of the community. This may include investments in public safety, infrastructure maintenance and improvement, education, healthcare services, and programs that support economic development and job creation.

Public safety is a critical area that often requires adequate funding. This includes supporting law enforcement agencies, emergency services, and initiatives that promote community safety and crime prevention. By allocating sufficient resources to these areas, we can ensure the security and well-being of our residents.

Investing in infrastructure is another crucial aspect of the budget. This includes maintaining and upgrading roads, bridges, utilities, and public facilities. By allocating funds to infrastructure projects, we can enhance connectivity, promote economic growth, and improve the overall quality of life for residents.

Ultimately, the goal is to scrutinize the budget annually, engage with stakeholders, and make informed decisions that prioritize the needs of the community while ensuring that citizens are not overtaxed or overregulated. Striking this balance requires careful analysis, transparency, and accountability in the budgeting process.

What is the role of local media in your community? How can county officials work to have a better relationship with the media?

Carlson: The local media plays a vital role in our community by providing timely and accurate information to citizens. Its role extends beyond reporting local news and events; it serves as a platform for fostering transparency, accountability, and civic engagement. County officials should strive to have a productive and collaborative relationship with the media to ensure effective communication and an informed public.

To cultivate a better relationship with the media, county officials can take several steps. They should actively engage with local journalists and media outlets, providing them with access to information and opportunities for interviews or press conferences. By being accessible and responsive, officials can facilitate open lines of communication and provide accurate information to the public.

Furthermore, county officials should encourage their state and federal representatives to engage with the local media as well. This can foster a broader understanding of the issues that affect the community and ensure that information flows between different levels of government.

Voter turnout and participation continues to be low in Idaho. What efforts can be made to stimulate greater voter involvement in elections and government?

Carlson: To stimulate greater voter involvement in elections and government in Idaho, efforts can be made to encourage and engage the community.

Voter Education: Educating the public about the importance of voting and the impact their participation can have on shaping their communities is crucial. Candidates and local officials should actively promote and host public forums, distributing voter guides, and organizing workshops to inform voters about the issues and candidates on the ballot.

By implementing these strategies, candidates, officials, and community leaders can work together to stimulate greater voter involvement in Idaho. Through education, outreach, and media engagement, we can foster a more informed and engaged electorate that actively participates in elections and government.