Ada County’s only Republican commissioner is about to retire before his term ends
The only Republican on the Ada County Commission will soon retire before his term ends.
Rick Visser announced his retirement in an email on March 16, saying his last day would be March 31. His term ends next January. Visser represents District 2, which covers the northwest corner of Ada County, including Star and Eagle.
“It has been an honor to serve the citizens of Ada County and a great privilege to have worked with you all,” he said in an email to the county’s leadership team.
Visser did not say why he was retiring early. He could not be reached for comment Monday.
Visser was elected to the three-person commission in November 2016. The other commissioners are Democrats Diana Lachiondo, who represents District 1, and Kendra Kenyon, who represents District 3.
The Ada County Republican Committee was tasked with nominating three candidates to complete Visser’s term. The committee was scheduled to hold a special election of precinct committeemen on Tuesday.
“This is a significant seat, and it’s very important for all the precinct committeemen that they have their voices heard,” committee Chairman Davidson told the Statesman in a phone interview.
Gov. Brad Little will decide whom to appoint.
Regardless of who is chosen, the seat is up for election in November. Seven people are vying for it in the May 19 primary election, according to campaign filings. They include Democrat Bill Rutherford and Republicans Rod W. Beck, Mary McFarland, Patrick Malloy, Teri Murrison, Fred Rippee and Kim J. Wickstrum.
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