COEUR d'ALENE — Kootenai County Commissioner Dan Green announced on Wednesday that he will not seek re-election to his District 3 seat this year.

"I'm a proponent of term limits," he said. "An elected office should not be a career at any level — federal, state or local."

Green said he wants to give others interested in running ample time to enter the race, so that's why he's announcing early that he won't seek re-election.

This year will mark the end of Green's second term. Green will have served six years as a commissioner at the end of his term, which ends in January 2017.

Green, 59, was appointed to the county's Planning and Zoning Commission in 2003 and served in that capacity for seven years.

"It's time to take a break," said Green, adding that he's not ruling out running for another political office in the future. "I have been greatly blessed to be able to participate these past 13 years.

"Over the years, I have been fortunate to get to know and work with many quality individuals inside and outside the walls of county government. The vast majority of county employees are excellent public servants; they serve the citizens well."

Green said he wants to pursue teaching a continuing education class at North Idaho College on financial planning. He'll likely also participate on other boards and nonprofits.

He retired in 2008 as the owner of a forest products company.

"I've failed at retirement," he said.

Green supported the county hiring an administrator in 2012 as part of a restructure proposal to relieve commissioners of administrative tasks so they could focus more on policy similar to school board members and city council members. The proposal was not approved.

He's also promoted an "at-will" employment policy to reduce the county's liability when lawsuits arise. Under such a policy, which the county continues to use as its baseline policy, employees can be fired at any time and with no reason given.

"I believe I've always treated people with dignity and respect and have always promoted transparency," said Green, reflecting on his time in office.

Republicans Bob Bingham and Leslie Duncan earlier announced they'll seek Green's seat. Green said he made up his mind to not seek re-election before those candidates announced.

District 3 includes the north-central part of the county.

Republican incumbent David Stewart also earlier announced he'll re-seek his seat for District 2, which includes the southern part of the county, areas around Lake Coeur d'Alene and most of Coeur d'Alene.

The primary is May 17.

Candidates can officially file for candidacy for commission board seats for the primary from Feb. 29 through March 11.