Balser to challenge Tondee for Post Falls position

Incumbent Todd Tondee will face Bob Balser in the Post Falls Highway District Commissioner Sub-District No. 2's May 16 Taxing District Election.

Tondee, 52, is a 24-year resident of the district, serving three years on the Post Falls City Council and eight years as Kootenai County commissioner.

“I have a lot of knowledge and experience on how government leadership boards operate and how to be effective within those boards,” Tondee said. “I also bring my private-sector business ownership experience, where I have to make every dollar accountable and rely on my customer-service skills for success.

Tondee has also served as a Post Falls Community Volunteer past president, Green Idaho Foundation board member and Boys & Girls Club of Kootenai County board member.

“I bring the unique skills of listening to the issues and then using critical thinking based on all of my past experiences — both public and private — to make decisions, all while being accountable to the public,” Tondee said. “I wish to continue to use my knowledge and experience to serve the community.”

Balser, 86, has been a resident of the district for the past 52 years. He was previously a logger, worked as a mill owner for four years and in construction for 11 years. He is also a past precinct committeeman.

If elected, Balser plans to address financial conservatism, equipment maintenance and answer to the district citizenry.

“I don’t know that I’m the best candidate,” Balser said. “But I’m certainly willing to become the best.”

If elected, the position is paid with insurance benefits.

Polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on May 16.