SANDPOINT — In a swearing-in ceremony Monday, Bonner County’s new trio of commissioners emphasized a commitment to maintaining accountability and facilitating public feedback.

Clerk Michael Rosedale inaugurated several elected and re-elected officials during the event, including Commissioner Brian Domke, who joined Asia Williams and Ron Korn on the board of commissioners for a two-year term. 

In a speech, Domke thanked friends, family and God for support, wisdom and strength. 

“I appreciate the feedback, I appreciate the ideas, I appreciate the sincerity,” Domke said. “I ask you to hold me accountable to the oath that I just took, and if I stray from that, call me out publicly and I'll correct it.” 

Commissioner Ron Korn also took an oath of office to begin a four-year term; he thanked his family and, like Domke, asked residents to hold him accountable. 

“It's not easy being in public service, but that's why we do it. We want to see some changes happening, and if we want to see changes happening, you have to put yourself out there,” Korn said. 

Korn joined the board in September 2024 after Gov. Brad Little appointed him to the vacancy left by former commissioner Luke Omodt based on a Bonner County Republican Central Committee recommendation. 

Commissioners voted to appoint Williams as the board’s chair and Korn as its vice-chair. Williams told attendees she would give residents a voice at meetings and facilitate public input whenever possible. 

“It doesn't matter how long the meeting is; it doesn’t matter how many public comments they want to give,” Williams said. 

Domke said he intends to propose an action to rotate the responsibilities of the chair among commissioners to ensure the burden is evenly distributed. 

“I believe it would be in the best interest of our community to see the chairperson change every eight months ... so that the burden and the load of that responsibility can be shared,” he said.

County Assessor Dennis Engelhardt and Sheriff Daryl Wheeler, who both ran unopposed in the November 2024 election, renewed their oaths and thanked their families and community members for support. 

“I am so glad that I have this opportunity to serve you as your sheriff for one more term,” Wheeler said. “I look forward to keeping this county safe.”