BONNERS FERRY — Stacie Watts is running for Boundary County Clerk, saying the position is one of the most important operational roles in county government and requires strong leadership, accuracy and accountability. 

“I believe Boundary County benefits from leadership that brings both institutional knowledge and a fresh, independent perspective focused on service, transparency and continuous improvement,” Watts said. “The office plays a foundational role in ensuring transparency, accountability and trust in local government.” 

Watts said her decision to run is rooted in a clear understanding of the office’s responsibilities and a belief that the county benefits from leadership that combines firsthand government experience with strong operational expertise. 

She said she has experience in the clerk’s office as well as a professional background managing complex, high-accountability operations.

“My background reflects a consistent track record of accountability, attention to detail and service,” Watts said. “I understand what is at stake in this position and the importance of getting it right.” 

Watts said she is committed to building on what works while identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and service. 

“I am committed to serving Boundary County with professionalism, integrity and a focus on delivering reliable, high-quality service to the public.” 

If elected, Watts said her priorities include maintaining accuracy and accountability in financial records, public records and court documentation. 

She also said she would ensure strong election administration that follows Idaho law while maintaining voter confidence and operational efficiency. In addition, a priority of hers is operational efficiency, which to her means identifying opportunities to improve processes while maintaining compliance 

“The clerk’s office should be reliable, consistent and service-focused for both the public and other county departments,” Watts said. “Ultimately, improvement comes from leadership that is engaged, detail-oriented, and committed to doing the job right every day.” 

Watts said she is focused on customer service and believes every interaction with the clerk’s office should be professional, responsive and respectful.

She said she would focus on ensuring systems are well documented, staff are supported and cross-trained and processes are consistent and transparent. 

“I bring a combination of government experience and high-level operational expertise that allows me to evaluate processes, strengthen accountability and improve efficiency,” Watts said. 

“Small improvements in efficiency and communication can have a meaningful impact on both the office and the public it serves.” 

Watts previously worked in the Boundary County clerk’s office as a revenue deputy, where she said she gained direct experience with county financial processes and public service operations. 

She currently works with Edward Jones in financial services operations, where she meets strict regulatory and compliance standards and manages detailed financial processes. 

Earlier in her career at Medtronic, Watts said she managed multimillion-dollar budgets and contributed to the FDA approval of a major medical device. 

“My role required a high level of accuracy in coding and patient-facing documentation and I was honored with the Medtronic Star of Excellence Award for my contributions,” she said. 

Watts also has experience in medical operations, including patient billing, inventory control and regulatory reporting for controlled substances. 

“These experiences have prepared me to manage complex systems, maintain accurate records and operate in highly accountable environments,” Watts said. 

Watts serves as vice chair of the Boundary County Fair Board, where she helps oversee planning, budgeting, and operations for one of the county’s largest community events. Her role includes financial oversight, coordination with vendors and volunteers, and long-term planning to support the success of the fair. 

Prior to moving to Boundary County, she also served as a volunteer firefighter and a Girl Scouts troop leader trainer. 

Watts and her husband Caleb are proud to call this community home. She has lived in Boundary County since 2016.  

Outside of her professional and volunteer work, Watts enjoys spending time with her family, her horses and her dog and values the strong sense of community that defines Boundary County. 

Watts is running against Pam Barton and Kimberly Kichenmaster in the Republican primary on May 19.