Candidate Profile-Jeri J. DeLange
Birth date: May 1, 1953
Profession: Assistant to the Executive Director, CDA Basin Commission
Educational background: North Idaho College - Business Management & Banking Course Work; North Idaho College Workforce Training - Business Administration, Communication, and Leadership Course Work.
Public service (elected or appointed offices): Hayden City Council Member, 9 years (re-elected to 3rd term); Precinct #21 Committee Member (6 years, running for 4th term).
Community service (service clubs, nonprofit boards, etc.): Panhandle Area Council (City of Hayden Representative, 4 years); Association of Idaho Cities Legislative Committee (3 years); Kootenai Perspectives (Former Board Member, 4 years); Jobs Plus (Former Board Member); Hayden Urban Renewal Agency (Former Board Member); CDA Chamber (Former Board member, Past Chair of Public Policy Committee, Past Chair of Local Government Committee, graduate of Leadership Academy Program, Past Regional Chamber Alliance Member); Hayden Chamber (Former Board member and Government Affairs Committee member); Rathdrum Chamber; Hayden Lake Rotary Club; CDA Basin Chapter of Thrivent (Current Board Member and Finance Director); CDA Toastmasters Club (Past Officer and President); Lutheran Church of the Master (Past Church Council member and Vice President, Past Treasurer); Lutheran Academy of the Master (Past Board Member, 5 years); Idaho State Leadership CDA Prayer Luncheon Committee (i.e. formerly known as Governor’s Prayer Luncheon, Planning Committee Member and Chair); and Idaho Women in Timber (member of 2003 delegation to Washington, D.C.)
How many years as a resident of your city: 12
Marital status: Married to husband, Barry DeLange
Family: 5 children, 8 grandchildren
Hobbies: Reading, photography, hiking, graphic design
Why are you running for office?
I believe in good government by the people, and that government is only as good as its leadership. I want to examine how our State government can do more with less. I have proven leadership and dedication for community and public service. I understand local and state issues; and have experience dealing with many different governments. These skills will make me an effective legislator.
What do you see as the three biggest issues you’ll face?
The most important issue facing Idaho at the present time is economic viability. Continued economic growth and development will be critical for our State’s future. As Idaho is still recovering from the economic downturn, I feel the other two issues are fiscal responsibility and maintaining and improving Idaho’s quality of life.
If elected, what steps will you take to resolve these issues?
Economic Growth and Development - A strong economy is vital to our state. I will look into ways to bring in more industry such as manufacturing, technology and energy; and attract companies with good paying jobs. I will promote broadening and strengthening the base for jobs in natural resources such as agriculture, timber, mining, etc.
Fiscal Responsibility - I will ensure that taxpayer funding is spent responsibly and I will work to keep taxes low. I have extensive experience in budgeting that will translate into making sure the State gets the most “bang for its buck”. This is crucial for the State as it faces serious issues dealing with budget shortfalls from reductions in state revenues.
Maintaining and Improving Idaho’s Quality of Life - To achieve this goal, I will focus on the following priorities: 1) Funding to meet transportation needs; 2) Management of natural resources for multiple use, local control, minimal government regulation, and that federal regulations do not restrict our state rights; 3) Creating jobs; 4) Quality education for our children that we can afford; and 5) Providing the necessary services.
What specific skills or experience qualify you for this job?
My experience includes: 9 years of local government; 6 years working with multi-governmental entities; 24 years of business; and over 15 years community service. I understand local and state issues. I can work well with other legislators throughout the State to best represent your interests. I will always listen and make a decision after hearing both sides and looking at all the information.
Why should voters elect you, rather than an opponent?
I have proven leadership you can trust. Decision making is not easy, and elected officials need to have a broad understanding of all the issues as well as look at all possible future impacts. I possess the best experience for the job; and I will serve the people with integrity, professionalism, dedication for service, and fight for your rights with a “voice of reason.”