Bonner County commissioners seated Audra Savage on the county fair board Tuesday, filling the last remaining vacancy and bringing the board to full capacity.
Savage will serve out the remainder of a four-year term that runs through May 6, 2028. The seat became available earlier this year when Quentin Ducken resigned, leaving the fair board one member short.
Appointment Process and Selection
Commissioners reviewed several candidates before settling on Savage, citing her familiarity with social media platforms as a key asset. Commissioner Brian Domke noted that her knowledge in that area stood out during the interview process. “During our interview with Audra, the board commented on her social media knowledge and experience, and the value that she could add to the fair board,” Domke told the Bonner County Daily Bee.
Savage is also currently taking accounting classes, adding a financial element to her candidacy. The commissioners had previously filled another vacancy on the board by appointing Zach Spohn, whose selection was driven primarily by his financial background. The two appointments reflect a board-building strategy that balances different skill sets across its membership.
Commissioner Asia Williams was absent during the fair board interviews and did not participate in the appointment vote.
Domke also acknowledged the broader pool of applicants who were not selected. “I want to also thank everyone else who applied and interviewed. There are a lot of really passionate people who contribute a lot of their time for the fair,” he said, as reported by the Bonner County Daily Bee.
Fair Board Now at Full Strength
With Savage’s confirmation, the Bonner County Fair Board is now fully seated heading into the remainder of the year. The fair is a longstanding community institution in North Idaho, drawing participants and visitors from across the Panhandle each season.
The appointment comes amid a period of active county board and commission business in Bonner County. Commissioners have recently addressed a range of local governance matters, including proposals to set time limits on Planning and Zoning hearings that have stretched well past standard meeting hours.
Residents interested in future county board vacancies or appointment opportunities can monitor official notices through Bonner County channels. The county has also seen active legal and administrative proceedings this season, with multiple public hearings and legal notices scheduled for August covering estate matters, contractor disputes, and water district budgets.
What Comes Next
Savage begins her service immediately, with her term secured through May 2028. The fair board will now move forward with a complete roster as it handles planning and operations for upcoming fair events. No further appointments to the board are expected in the near term following the confirmation of both Savage and Spohn to previously vacant seats.