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JAN NIBJ: Plumbco looks ahead to bright 2026

CAROLINE LOBSINGER | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 9 months, 4 weeks AGO
by CAROLINE LOBSINGER
I grew up in the Tri-Cities, Wash., and have always loved to write. I attended the University of Washington, where I earned a double major in journalism and political science, with an area of emphasis in history. I am the fifth out of six kids — don't believe any of the stories that my siblings tell. To be able to tell others stories and take photos for a living is a dream come true — and I considered myself blessed to be a community journalist. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, hiking and spending time outdoors, genealogy, reading, and watching the UW Huskies and the Seattle Seahawks. I am a servant to my cat, Frankie, who yes, will eat anything and everything in sight … even wedding cookies. | December 30, 2025 1:00 AM

From basic repairs to full remodels, Plumbco is looking ahead to growth and service in 2026..

While new to Bonner County, Plumbco brings more than 20 years of plumbing experience to the community. The company offers a full range of services, from basic repairs — such as fixing leaks or unclogging drains — to installing new fixtures and water heaters, and completing full kitchen and bathroom remodels. It also handles plumbing for new construction and additions, owner Marcus Schmidt said.

“We do everything from fixing leaks and unclogging drains to helping with kitchen and bathroom remodels,” Schmidt said. “It’s really about helping people solve problems and making sure their plumbing works the way it should. We try to keep things simple, straightforward and done right.”

Schmidt, who recently opened the business, said he couldn’t imagine launching it anywhere but Bonner County. After all, the area is home — he loves the community, its pace and its people, and he enjoys providing quality service to friends and neighbors.

“It’s the kind of place where you can build real relationships with your customers, and that’s important to us,” Schmidt said. “We saw a need for reliable, straightforward plumbing services in the area, and it just felt like the right fit — not just for the business, but for our family, too.”

Because the area is home, Schmidt said Plumbco’s goal is to build a solid, trustworthy reputation in the community.

“We want people to know they can count on us — not just for quality plumbing work, but for honest advice and good service,” he said.

Schmidt said Plumbco isn’t looking to be the biggest plumbing company. Instead, the team simply wants to do great work and take care of customers.

He hopes to see steady growth and the addition of a few more team members — but always with a focus on maintaining a personal, local feel.

Plumbco offers discounts to seniors and veterans — a way for the crew to give back to those who have served and helped build the community, Schmidt said.

“We really enjoy being part of the Bonner County community,” he said. “Beyond just plumbing, we’re here to build connections and support our neighbors however we can.”

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