Idaho State Police director William Gardner introduces priorities to Senate committee; confirmation expected later

Boise — Colonel William Gardner appeared before the Senate Judiciary and Rules Committee to introduce himself and discuss priorities for the Idaho State Police. Committee members indicated they will typically vote on such nominations at a subsequent meeting.

Gardner described a 26-year career with the Idaho State Police and said he has served in roles including trooper, commercial-vehicle and hazardous-materials work, executive protection, dispatch center management and district command. “My philosophy on ISP has been that we are a resource for other agencies,” he told senators, describing frequent mutual aid for fires, floods and complex investigations.

Gardner told the committee recruitment and retention are major challenges for the state police. He said his agency has lost troopers to city departments and to Washington State Patrol and that pay is a concern. “Our Northern Idaho numbers are extremely diminished. I actually got word, yesterday, that I've lost two more troopers… pay is an issue,” he said, adding his leadership team has formed a group to address staffing and that he expects to propose solutions to the Legislature next session.

Committee members asked Gardner about legislative priorities and he replied he intends to “bring problems forward” and offer proposals for the Legislature and agency to consider. The committee took no confirmation vote at the hearing; the chair said such votes are typically taken at the next meeting.

Gardner thanked the committee and said he was “humbled” to serve and committed to leaving Idaho “better than we found it.”