Liedkie only contender in a commission race
Apr. 4—Lewiston City Councilor Hannah Liedkie is running unopposed in the Republican primary and the general election for a two-year term on the Nez Perce County Commission.
Previously, Liedkie was going to face Kathy Schroeder, another Lewiston city councilor, in the Republican primary for the District 1 seat, but Schroeder said Wednesday she withdrew shortly after she filed.
Between projects such as renovations of her home and landscaping in her yard, Schroeder said she doesn't have enough time to be a county commissioner.
The incumbent, Don Beck, isn't seeking the seat. No one from any other party declared a candidacy and the deadline for write-in candidates has passed, said Nez Perce County Auditor Patty Weeks.
Liedkie is beginning to plan her transition from serving on city council to being a county commissioner.
"I was informed (Schroeder) withdrew but no reason was given," Liedkie said in a text. "I wish her only the best and look forward to continued conversations as we serve on city council."
Being a city councilor, Liedkie said, has given her insight into municipal government that will be helpful on the county commission, where she will make property tax relief for homeowners a priority.
"I believe I can serve our residents and taxpayers well and will continue to be actively engaged over these next several months to ensure I can be effective from day one," she said.
Liedkie plans to resign from city council when her county commission term begins. At that time, she will have one year left in her four-year council term.
She will continue to be president and chief executive officer of Opportunities Unlimited, a not-for-profit group that provides services for individuals with disabilities.
Four are running in the Republican primary for a District 3 seat held now by Doug Zenner, who, like Beck, isn't running for the commission that has three seats.
They are Robin Ackerman of Lenore, Joe Gish of Waha, Bob Hasenoehrl of Lewiston and John Roy of Lewiston. In November, the winner will face Pete Gertonson, of Waha, the only Democrat to file for the seat. The highest vote-getter in the general election for District 3 will serve a four-year term.
Terms on the county commission rotate between two years and four years to prevent a situation where all three of the seats on the county commission are on the ballot at the same time, Weeks said.
The primary is May 21 and the general election is Nov. 5.
Williams may be contacted at ewilliam@lmtribune.com or (208) 848-2261.
