The Lincoln County Commissioners chose John Boyke to replace now retired District 2 commissioner Jim Hammons at a recent meeting.

Brent Teske and Noel Duram were unanimous in their decision for Boyke. Hammons recused himself from the vote because state code dictates a current commissioner can not vote on his replacement.

“Congratulations, sir,” Teske said. Boyke, who was present in commission chambers, acknowledged the salutation. Boyke was sworn in Friday, Nov. 6 by Judge Matt Cuffe.

Boyke represents District 2, which includes more than 6,500 citizens living in Troy, Yaak, Bull Lake, Savage Lake, Sylvanite and McCormick.

Hammons’ last day on the job was Friday, Nov. 6. His career in public service lasted 31 years.

Boyke, Michael Robert Lee and Tony Wickham were the three candidates the Lincoln County Republican Central Committee submitted on to the current board of county commissioners. 

Boyke will complete Hammons’ term, which ends at the end of 2028. He has indicated he would seek election to the position.

Boyke shared his thoughts in a written statement with The Western News following his appointment.

“For more than 30 years, I have served in leadership roles in Information Technology, overseeing complex systems, managing budgets, leading projects and guiding high-performing teams,” Boyke said. “These experiences have strengthened my ability to solve problems, manage resources responsibly, build consensus among diverse stakeholders and make difficult decisions while remaining accountable for results.”

He also spoke about his reason for seeking the seat.

“My commitment to public service is reflected in my work on the Lincoln County Government Study Commission and the Lincoln County Planning Board, where I have consistently championed private property rights, fiscal responsibility and transparent government. Effective county leadership requires the ability to evaluate complex issues, oversee public resources wisely, communicate clearly and make decisions based on principles rather than political pressure,” he said. “My professional experience and local government service have prepared me to meet these responsibilities and serve the citizens of Lincoln County with integrity, accountability, and conviction.”

Further, Boyke spoke to his values and belief system.

“My values are grounded in faith, a commitment to the Constitution, and a belief that government exists to serve the people, not control them. While I will listen respectfully to all voices and viewpoints across Lincoln County, I will not allow political pressure to outweigh sound judgment and principle,” he said. “Leadership is not about avoiding criticism; it is about making the right decisions for the long-term benefit of the community.

“As Commissioner, my priorities will be maintaining fiscal responsibility, supporting economic development, protecting private property rights, strengthening public safety and ensuring county government remains transparent and accountable to the citizens it serves. I will approach every decision with an open mind, rely on facts and principles to guide my judgment, and never lose sight of the fact that county government works for the people, not the other way around.”

Two county residents made public comments regarding the appointment, each about former candidate Tony Wickham to be considered.

Rocky Gifford simply said, “I oppose Tony Wickham.”

D.C. Orr referenced a Oct. 27 story in The Western News that detailed Wickham’s current and past failures to timely pay individual income and property taxes totaling tens of thousands of dollars.

“Um, the hit piece that came out in the newspaper just reinforced to me that Tony Wickham is making some waves,” Orr said. “I endorse him.”