GOP group elects leaders

POST FALLS - The Kootenai County Republican Central Committee chose Neil Oliver as its new chairman at the Garden Plaza on Thursday night.

Oliver edged Brent Regan 34-31 in voting by the precinct committee members.

"I look forward to the challenge," Oliver told nearly 200 attendees. "I hope to fill your needs and earn your trust. I'm a big follower of by-laws. Those by-laws were put in by the people before us."

Oliver said those in the political party will disagree, but it's important to respect each other and unify to change the direction of the country.

"One of the most important things is the way the public views the Republican Party," he said. "If we seem scattered, that reflects poorly on us."

Oliver, who has been involved with the KCRCC for about 10 years and replaces Tina Jacobson as chair, was nominated by John Cross.

"He has helped out in almost every situation that has come up," Cross said of Oliver.

In voting for vice chairman, Tony Wisniewski defeated Luke Sommer 37-28.

Wisniewski said he believes change can start at the local level.

"I want us to think in a larger sense," he said. "We're here to elect good Republicans to office. We need to think ourselves as a farm team for state and eventually national candidates."

Shiela Waller was chosen as secretary, Doug Balija treasurer, Bjorn Handeen state committeeman, Ruthie Johnson state committeewoman and Dirk Mendive youth committeman.

The KCRCC, which consists of 70 precincts, is represented at events such as the fair and Fourth of July Parade. It also assists Republican candidates with mailings and walking door to door.

Elections for the group's Executive Committee are held every two years. Four of the members sit on the state committee.