BONNERS FERRY — Kimberly Kichenmaster said she is running for Boundary County clerk as a step of faith and obedience, believing God calls ordinary people to serve in places that matter. 

“I feel called to serve in this role at the intersection of government and the people — where individuals interact with some of life’s most important moments,” Kichenmaster said. 

“Whether it’s our courts, our elections, public records or county operations, I believe this office should operate with accountability, transparency and a heart to serve,” Kichenmaster said.   

Kichenmaster said she brings more than 20 years of administrative, data management and leadership experience.  

“Throughout my career, I have trained teams, managed operations, overseen finances, and ensured accountability in fast-paced environments,” Kichenmaster said.  

“For nearly 10 years, I have worked in healthcare, where I currently serve as an executive assistant and credentialing specialist.  In this role, I verify credentials, ensure compliance with policies and regulations, and manage sensitive records — responsibilities that closely align with the duties of the county clerk’s office.”  

Kichenmaster also serves as secretary for the Pend Oreille Hospital Taxing District.  

“This experience has strengthened my understanding of public fund oversight and the importance of accuracy, transparency and accountability in a structured governance environment,” Kichenmaster said.  

She said she also has experience in records and office management, accounts payable, bookkeeping and financial reconciliation.  

“Across all of these roles, I have developed a strong commitment to organization, clear communication and serving people well — even in high-pressure and emotionally challenging situations,” Kichenmaster said. 

She said her work experience has prepared her to lead a clerk’s office that is accurate, efficient, transparent and responsive to the community.   

One of Kichenmaster’s top priorities is secure, accurate and trustworthy elections. 

“Elections are the foundation of our representative government and must be conducted with the highest level of integrity to maintain public confidence,” Kichenmaster said. “I support transparent processes through public engagement, regular evaluation of election procedures and equipment, and clear voter education that builds trust in every step of the process.” 

Her additional priorities include working with current staff to understand their roles and experience while seeking input on opportunities to improve processes that better serve the public. Kichenmaster also said she believes the public would benefit from an updated county website. 

She also said she places importance on involving younger residents in county government. 

“I would like to evaluate what is in place and explore opportunities to involve local students in county government,” Kichenmaster said. “Our youth are one of our greatest assets to a free republic, and creating pathways for them to learn, serve and engage helps build informed, responsible citizens for the future.” 

Kichenmaster believes the county clerk is elected to serve Boundary County citizens, not a political agenda. 

“This role is foundational to transparent elections, accurate records and accountable government, giving the community a direct voice in how these responsibilities are carried out,” Kichenmaster said.  

“That voice shouldn’t end at the ballot box,” she said. “I am committed to seeking public input, listening well, and ensuring our county government reflects the needs and values of the people it serves.”

Her family has called Boundary County home since 2020. 

“We value the heritage, independence and conservative way of life that define this county, and I care deeply about preserving those things while also planning responsibly for the future,” Kichenmaster said. 

“I am not running for a title, but to serve,” she said. “I care about this county, the people in it, and the responsibility of this role. If elected, I will work diligently to uphold the law, protect public trust, and serve every citizen of Boundary County with fairness and respect.” 

Kichenmaster is running against Pam Barton and Stacie Watts in the Republican primary election May 19.