Post Falls Mayor Will Seek Spot On County Commission Gus Johnson Says His Campaign Will Focus On How To Expand Jail Without Raising Taxes

Mayor Gus Johnson announced late Tuesday his plan to run for Kootenai County Commissioner this year.

“You can’t lose being the first out of the chute,” said Johnson, who announced his decision to reporters after a city council meeting.

He seeks the 1st District position now held by Dick Compton, whose tenure ends this year because of term limits. The district includes Post Falls, Rathdrum, Spirit Lake, Twin Lakes and Hauser.

If elected, Johnson will resign as Post Falls mayor. The primary election for the county position is May 23. Johnson will file for his candidacy March 20.

Johnson said he’s focusing on how to expand the county’s jail, believing it can be done without raising taxes.

The jail project can be financed in phases, Johnson said.

First, funding through an urban renewal district could be used, then county funds.

Finally, Johnson predicts another “big ticket” development will make more tax revenue available to finish the jail project.

“Maybe it’s too simplistic, but it’s an idea that has to be out there,” Johnson said. “A jail is a negative. Nobody wants to give money for a jail.”

Johnson decided to run for the position several months ago after friends encouraged him to look into the possibility, he said.

Johnson will file as a Republican.

“I really fight the title of politician. If people elect you, you are a public servant,” Johnson said.

Johnson, who considers himself a fiscal conservative, will give more details about his platform in the next few months.

“I hope one asset I can bring to it is to encourage the staff to think on their own,” Johnson said.