About Mark
Mark is a lifelong public servant who always seeks to leave things better than he found them.
Why I’m Running
I am running for the Representative seat 1A for Bonner and Boundary Counties because I have the leadership skills, experience and the traditional, conservative values to serve our citizens and communities. We need responsible leaders representing the best interests of our citizens.
My career as a firefighter, service as a Fire Chief, along with my experience in city management has taught me broad leadership lessons. I know how to listen, to communicate, to collaborate, to craft good solutions, and to act with courage when called upon.
Public service is key to my career, my community life and my family. I want to continue my commitment to public service and our communities. I have the time, the dedication, and the courage to represent the citizens of Bonner and Boundary Counties as we contribute to Idaho’s quality of life.
We live in challenging times that call for conservative leadership. The last decade has brought immense growth, changes in political attitudes, and stressful impacts to our communities. Idaho, once known for its civility and good old-fashioned conservative thinking has reached a tipping point. Our Republican Party is often divided. We need to focus on what’s good for our communities and seek conservative solutions.
My commitment to the citizens of North Idaho is to utilize my skills and education to provide you with responsible representation. To do that I need your vote in the upcoming election. We get better outcomes when we work together. Your support is critical.
Education
B.A. Fire Administration
California State University Los Angeles
M.A. Public Administration
University of Southern California
Executive Fire Officer
National Fire Academy
Professional
Fire Service
30 years
Fire Chief
8 years
Public Administration
2 years
Post-Professional
Idaho Family Forester
1992-present
Volunteer, Selkirk Fire and Rescue
2014-present
President, Bonner County Fire Chiefs Assn.
2019-present
Biography
Mark grew up in Southern California. From a young age he loved the outdoors, specifically mountains, lakes and rivers. In 1969 he camped at Priest Lake and never forgot it. He returned as an adult and found he loved North Idaho even more. The beauty was the same, but he recognized the hard-working spirit of the citizens added more.
He served 30 years in the fire service and two more years in City Administration. His last 8 years in the fire service was as a Fire Chief. Mark earned a fire administration degree and a master’s degree in public administration while working and raising a family. His conservative values are a sound foundation for his leadership and administrative responsibilities.
He retired in 2011 and moved to Sandpoint in 2012. For the last 10 years he has been applying his skills to many volunteer opportunities, improving his carpentry/cabinet making skills and enjoying outdoor activities like skiing and hiking.
Mark has served and led many community committees, professional associations, and boards. His goal has always been the same, to leave things better than he found them.
He has been a family forester in Bonner County since 1992, attending U of Idaho extension courses to increase his knowledge and improve his forestry decision making. He has overseen a logging operation in his woods and personally replanted the entire area. He is a hands-on worker, manager and leader.
Mark has volunteered and worked with Selkirk Fire and Rescue since 2014. He has served as President of the Bonner County Fire Chiefs Association since 2019.
He has two adult children. His son is a Navy pilot. His daughter is a Deputy Prosecutor.