Valley County commissioners appoint Brian Oakey as prosecuting attorney, effective Oct. 1

The Valley County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Sept. 2 to appoint Brian Oakey as the county's next prosecuting attorney, with the appointment effective Oct. 1.

Commissioner Thompson moved to approve Oakey and Commissioner Caldwell seconded the motion. The board recorded three 'ayes' and approved the appointment.

Commissioners said continuity with the existing prosecutor's office and experience on both the civil and criminal sides were key considerations in choosing a successor to outgoing prosecutor Bryant Naugle. During deliberations the board also agreed to table the application of another candidate, Shockley, saying he did not meet the requirements under consideration.

Oakey was one of three applicants discussed at the special meeting; the other applicants were Ryan Lay and Shockley. Commissioners praised Oakey's experience and his familiarity with office operations. "He's got a very vast array of experience behind him," Commissioner Thompson said when explaining his support. Commissioner Caldwell said Oakey appeared "more well rounded on both the civil and the criminal side," and emphasized continuity for current staff at the prosecutor's office.

The board recorded the formal motion on the record. Commissioner Thompson said, "I'll make a motion that we, approve Brian Oakey as the new prosecuting attorney." Commissioner Caldwell seconded the motion; each commissioner present responded "aye".

The appointment is effective Oct. 1. Commissioners discussed scheduling a swearing-in; they mentioned holding a special meeting on Sept. 24 to conduct an early oath so Oakey could take office at noon Oct. 1. The board also discussed the possibility of an acting prosecutor covering a short gap if necessary; speakers noted differing dates (Oct. 1 and Oct. 6 were both mentioned) while clarifying that an acting arrangement, if used, would last only until the swearing-in. The transcript shows the board agreed to pursue an early swearing-in to match the Oct. 1 effective date but left some scheduling details to follow.

The board also noted that one application, Shockley's, would be tabled because it did not meet the requirements the commissioners were seeking. Commissioners thanked all applicants for applying and said resumes for other county openings would be passed along where appropriate.

No salary, contract length, or additional employment terms were specified in the public deliberation. The board did not reference any statute, ordinance, or other legal authority during the recorded portion of deliberations.

The appointment completes the board's special meeting on the single agenda item of selecting a prosecuting attorney for Valley County. The board directed staff to set the oath of office and finalize the transition timeline.