Don Pischner is running for Kootenai County clerk, and if elected he promised to run the office in a non-partisan way and focus on customer service to all county residents.

"I've got the experience," Pischner said. "I believe I have the temperament."

Pischner, a Coeur d'Alene Republican, served four terms in the Idaho House, representing District 4A. He was a member of the House Appropriations Committee.

"I am a candidate for clerk because I believe that I am qualified and willing to perform the duties of Kootenai County clerk competently and fairly," Pischner said.

It's a partisan election, but he said the office shouldn't be run in a partisan way.

He pledged to serve all residents equally, regardless of political party or party faction affiliation.

"When elected, I will commit to enforcing Idaho's election laws in a fair and evenhanded manner," Pischner said. "I, like many others, want to encourage participation, not arbitrarily limit voters' choices. It weakens our republic when candidates or voters are excluded from the process."

After earning a degree in accounting, Pischner worked during tax season as a staff accountant for H.F. Magnuson. He spent 20 years in the asphalt paving business, 14 of them as superintendent for Inland Asphalt Co.

Pischner, now 75, next worked for Idaho Forest Industries for nine years, followed by Stimson Lumber Co. for 10 years.

He was a member of the Western States Legislative Forestry Task Force, which promoted collaborative forest management programs. The task force conducted hearings throughout the Northwest and lobbied in Washington, D.C.

Pischner said he has heard morale is low in the clerk's office.

"I have strong people skills," he said. "I've worked with a lot of different people."

Pischner served in the military with an Army amphibious transportation group.

Pischner is a Museum of North Idaho trustee, and an active private pilot. He researches and writes local history.

He said he has lived his entire life in North Idaho, except for time at college and in the military.

He is a current Magistrates Commissioner, an appointment by the governor.

He has two daughters and five grandchildren residing locally.

"I'm blessed with excellent health," he said. He has the energy to serve, he said.