Heikkila Challenges Rep. Pischner
A Democratic state Soil Conservation Commissioner is seeking the legislative seat now held by Fourth District Republican state Rep. Don Pischner.
Donald N. Heikkila, of Harrison, filed his intent to run this week with the secretary of state’s office. Gov. Phil Batt appointed Heikkila to the position last year.
Pischner, 57, of Coeur d’Alene, beat four-term Democratic Rep. Gino White in 1994 by 15 votes.
Pischner, an engineering consultant, helped push through bills this session to dispose of sawmill wood debris, designate funds for the Bunker Hill Superfund cleanup, and raise the penalties for speeding in construction zones. Two years ago, he ran on a platform stressing less political posturing and more common-sense government.