Mineral County Commissioner Shawn Smalley is resigning, citing stress and health problems.

Smalley, a Republican and former Montana Highway Patrol trooper, was less than two years into his term when he made the announcement during a meeting of the Mineral County Board of Commissioners last week. He said at the June 18 meeting that he “will be in next week, and then I’ll be done.” 

“The strain and the stress it puts on my body is something that’s not sustainable for me,” Smalley said.  

The county commissioner was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer in November, according to a post on an online fundraising site. A community event held at Superior High School in April raised additional dollars to support Smalley and his family.  

Commissioner Chair Roman Zylawy said he learned of Smalley’s intentions to resign on June 15. He didn’t expect his fellow commissioner to leave so soon, he said, and was saddened by Smalley’s departure. 

“We all have our strengths and weaknesses,” Zylawy said. “Smalley did some good work.” 

Smalley’s resignation letter has been submitted to the county Clerk and Recorder’s Office, Zylawy said. Smalley’s last day in the position is expected to be June 26.  

Commissioner Duane Simons did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 

The county has 30 days to find a temporary replacement to fill the vacant spot, under state law. Rep. Curtis Cochran, R-St. Regis, who chairs the Mineral County Republican Central Committee, said the committee will discuss and vote on three nominees for commissioners to choose from for an interim commissioner.  

The central committee’s next meeting is July 8, at 6:30 p.m. in the Mineral County Courthouse, at 300 River St. in Superior, in the county commissioners room. A nominee must have resided in the Central District, which includes the town of Superior, for at least two years prior to Smalley’s vacancy date to qualify.  

Cochran invites anyone interested to contact him at 406-280-0081 or the committee secretary, Mary Yarnell, at 406-382-0222. 

THIS IS the second time in less than five years that a Mineral County commissioner resigned before the end of their term. Dawn Terrill was sworn in on Oct. 7, 2022, after former Commissioner Laurie Johnston resigned two years before the end of her term.  

But the timing of Smalley’s resignation is a bit more complicated, Curtis said, pointing to the looming November election. Zylawy said each political party must appoint a candidate to the elections administrator to appear on the general election ballot in November.  

Independent candidates have until Aug. 1 to submit a signed petition and appear on the ballot, Zylawy said.  

Report for America Reporter Hannah Shields can be reached at 406-758-4439 or [email protected]. If you value local journalism, pledge your support at dailyinterlake.com/support.