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Crook County fills planning commission vacancy; two pro tem members named
Summary
The board approved the planning commission’s recommendation to appoint Hunter Newharth to the vacant seat and name Kirk Giovannini and Monte Kurtz as one-year pro tem members. The planning commission solicited multiple applicants and interviewed candidates before forwarding recommendations to the board.
The Crook County Board of Commissioners approved the planning commission’s recommendation to fill a vacancy left by a March resignation.
John Isler, community development director, told the board the county received six applications in the advertised 30-day period and the planning commission conducted interviews. The commission recommended appointing Hunter Newharth to the filled seat; Newharth was not present but had indicated he might join by video. Isler said Newharth brings agricultural experience and lives in Paulina Valley.
To reduce quorum pressure and create an "on-deck" pool, the planning commission recommended two one-year pro tem positions; the board approved pro tem nominations for Kirk Giovannini and Monte ("Monty") Kurtz. Both introduced themselves to the board and said they sought to represent their communities and bring practical, place-based perspectives to land-use decisions.
Public commenters expressed support for other applicants, including Nicole (last name not specified), urging the county to consider her experience in future vacancies. Commissioners said they were pleased with the quality of applicants and that additional candidates will be considered for upcoming openings.
Why it matters: Planning commission appointments shape local land-use decision-making and the county’s approach to growth management. The new appointees increase the commission’s capacity to hear land-use matters and reduce scheduling conflicts that can arise from thin membership.
Next steps: Staff will finalize appointment paperwork and the new commissioner and pro tem members will be available to sit on future planning commission hearings and deliberations.
