WALLACE — Shoshone County will soon begin searching for new administrators in its public works department following the Wednesday resignations of director Jessica Stutzke and administrative assistant Stephanie Featherstone. 

Stutzke has served as director since 2022, taking over after the resignation of Jim Cason. 

In her resignation letter to the Shoshone County commissioners, Stutzke outlined the concerns that led to her decision and acknowledged the challenges of leading a county department. 

“This has been a thoughtful and difficult decision,” she said. “Over time, I have found it increasingly challenging to carry out my responsibilities due to limited communication, inconsistent support, and a decision-making environment that is sometimes shaped by outside influences. While I respect the leadership must balance many perspectives, these dynamics have made it difficult for me to perform my role in the way I believe best serves the county.” 

During her tenure, Stutzke oversaw numerous major projects, including the replacement of several county bridges, extensive work following a rockslide on Moon Pass and road repair and replacement after natural disasters. 

Stutzke said she had considered resigning earlier but had delayed the decision after the county was hit by severe weather late last year. 

“I chose to delay this announcement in light of the recent flooding and windstorm,” she wrote. “Ensuring the county was positioned to move forward with state and federal funding processes was a priority, and I felt it was important to maintain continuity during that critical period.” 

County commissioners expressed disappointment at Stutzke’s departure, emphasizing her work ethic, institutional knowledge and ability to maintain a high-functioning department. 

Commissioner Melissa Cowles grew emotional Thursday when discussing Stutzke’s resignation. 

“I’m totally bummed,” she said. “It’s going to be tough shoes to fill. But I’m also happy for her. I understand her decision. She was a big asset, as well as Stephanie.” 

Commissioner Dave Dose said the departures of Stutzke and Featherstone, along with recent resignations at the Shoshone County Sheriff's Office, represent the county’s most significant loss of institutional knowledge in at least 30 years. 

“It’s a great loss of talent,” Dose said. “Jessica’s absence will be sorely felt."

Stutzke said the public nature of the position has added significant stress, particularly on social media, where scrutiny addresses every move and decision. 

“Social media has become a space where misinformation and negativity can spread quickly,” Stutzke said. “The intensity of that environment has added to the strain of the role and contributed to my decision.” 

Both Stutzke and Featherstone will remain with the county through the end of January, and each expressed a desire to help ensure a smooth transition for their successors. 

The commissioners did not comment on the process for filling either position, but plan to hold several meetings on the matter in the coming days and weeks.