Right now, Gem County is spending money to stay stuck instead of investing money to move forward. Here’s what the numbers show, and how we fix it.

I sat down with Sheriff Donnie Wunder this week to talk about a growing problem in Gem County, we’re struggling to recruit and retain deputies because our pay isn’t competitive. This isn’t just a staffing issue, it’s a public safety issue, and it’s one we can fix.

Many residents have asked how we can bring more accountability to Gem County government. In this Commissioner’s Corner article, I share my thoughts on how clear communication, accessibility, and responsible leadership can strengthen trust between county government and the people it serves.

Property rights and rural uses are foundational to life in Gem County. As growth accelerates, we must protect landowners, follow Idaho Law, and plan responsibly, without changing the rules mid-process or sidelining rural voices.

Growth doesn’t have to mean higher taxes. Counties have tools; like impact fees and planning mechanisms, that allow growth to help pay for itself. This article explains how those tools work, and why understanding them matter for Gem County’s future.

Impact fees are often misunderstood. They are not a tax increase, and they are not a blank check for government spending. This article explains what impact fees are designed to do, what they legally can’t be used for, and why clarity matters for landowners and taxpayers in Gem County.

Over the past months, I’ve spent time listening to residents across Gem County. Different towns, different backgrounds, but many of the same concerns. This article shares what I heard, what people are worried about, and what they want county leadership to do better.