DeLange will seek District 3 position

COEUR d'ALENE - Jeri DeLange has announced her Republican candidacy for the Idaho State Legislature. She is running for the open seat in District 3 being vacated by Rep. Jim Clark, who is retiring later this year.

"It's vital to elect a representative who has extensive experience in government, understands local and state issues, and can work well with other legislators throughout the state to best represent the interests of North Idaho and its constituents," she said.

DeLange said that the most important job of a legislator is to listen with an open mind to both sides of an issue before making a decision. These are qualities that she said she can bring to the table.

"I will be a legislator who will build bridges instead of walls," DeLange said. "This is crucial with the economic downturn and the many difficult decisions facing the state."

Currently serving her ninth year on Hayden City Council, DeLange said her knowledge and experience will serve her well in the Legislature.

"Decision making is not easy, and elected officials need to have a broad understanding of all the issues as well as look at possible future impacts," she said.

She said she is dedicated to public service and wants to ensure that government is responsive, efficient, and taxpayer funding is spent responsibly.

Economic growth and development will continue to be one of her top priorities for the state as a strong economy is essential for Idaho. She said her other priorities include fiscal responsibility, transportation, education, and providing necessary services while maintaining a balanced budget.

For the past six years, DeLange has also served as an elected precinct committee member for the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee.

She has been involved in community service in various leadership roles for civic and other community organizations such as the Panhandle Area Council, Coeur d'Alene and Hayden chambers, Kootenai Perspectives and the Association of Idaho Cities.

DeLange has more than 24 years of business experience. She is employed by the Cd'A Basin Environmental Improvement Project Commission, a multi-governmental entity to coordinate environmental remediation, natural resource restoration, and related measures to address water quality and heavy metal contamination in the Coeur d'Alene Basin.

DeLange is a lifelong resident of North Idaho who is married to husband Barry. They have five children and eight grandchildren.