Bussey named new EMS chief

SANDPOINT — Bonner County commissioners announced the appointment of new EMS chief on Thursday.

Robert Bussey has been tapped to take the helm of the department.

“Bob comes from a strong background of leadership in law enforcement,” the board said in a statement.

Bussey has 20 years of service with the police department in Farmington, N.M. At the time of his retirement, Bussey was the force’s operations captain. He later served as Bonner County’s undersheriff for five years, aiding the department’s modernization and long-range planning.

“The board looks forward to working with Bob in his new position with Bonner County,” the commission said.

Bussey’s wife, Dershi, is an emergency room nurse at Kootenai Health Center in Coeur d’Alene. He has a son, Jacob, who is a sophomore at Utah State University and a daughter, Alexis, who is entering her senior year at Sandpoint High School.

Bussey’s appointment comes about a month after the commission fired Rob Wakeley, who was hired in 2009. The commission declined to say why it terminated Wakeley’s employment.

Wakeley also declined to discuss the matter, although his attorney said Wakeley will pursue legal action as a result of his dismissal.

Hayden attorney Larry Beck contends his client was fell out of favor with the commission and was fired because of political reasons.