Sprungl announces re-election bid

Boundary County Sheriff Greg Sprungl is running for re-election.

A Republican, Sprungl is the first to announce his intention to seek the four-year seat for the May 27 primary. He has served as sheriff for 10 years.

The 59-year-old was initially appointed sheriff in September 1994 when former sheriff Bruce Whittaker resigned to take another job. Sprungl was elected in 1996, but lost to George Voyles in 2000.

When Voyles lost in the 2004 primary, Sprungl, who was also running, was appointed sheriff and was elected that November.

In between 2000 and 2004, Sprungl served with the International Police in the Kosovo Mission, where he was second in command for a large police station. Sprungl returned to work as an investigator on the Bonners Ferry Police drug task force.

Prior to getting into law enforcement, the longtime Boundary County resident working in logging and trucking.

As the county's chief law enforcement officer, Sprungl oversees a staff of 29. They include sheriff's deputies, emergency dispatchers, driver's license and civil deputies, and the jail staff.

The sheriff's office enforces laws, investigates crimes and accidents, and handles civil matters, including delivering subpoenas and evictions, handling non-payment of taxes, selling property and more.

In a prepared statement, Sprungl reviewed accomplishments by his office.

“As promised before the last election, we now have 24-hour patrol service,” he said. “Our drug task force is active and effective in reducing drug use. “

“We have been within budget during my entire term,” Sprungl continued. “ We developed and published a new modern policy and procedures manual. We are working hard to maintain our facilities and keep it safe and serviceable.”

Sprungl says his management style is simple - treat everyone fairly and with dignity.

“I make every effort to be “easy to work with” and enjoy a good relationship with other agencies,” he said.

During this term, two projects have been undertaken using federal funds - digitizing the communication system and acquiring a generator to maintain power during outages.

Additionally, the department has conducted studies how best to use the jail and assess the need for expansion.

“Currently, we are assessing Enhanced 911 systems that will work with the new county address system,” Sprungl said. “ With Enhanced 911, calls will be dispatched with greater accuracy and shorter response times.”

Most importantly, we have a great “crew” working as a team,” he continued. “The staff of the sheriff's office and I make decisions based on what is best for the county.”

Sprungl's re-election committee includes Kris Larson Treasurer, Doug and Sharon Smith, Mike Dinning, Larry and Wilma Devore, Harlan Schrag, Tim Day, Steve Nelson, Steve Thompson, Allen and Jenny Fessler, and Rod and Jeannie Robinson.