This was the response from incumbent County Commissioner Rick Currie, as he spoke to the Press after his very close win last night. Congratulations, Rick! Then I balked when I turned to the Press Editorial. It implied that challenger Jai Nelson probably took votes away from the big money challenger, Tom Cronin, thereby inadvertently helping Rick Currie win.

I’m not so sure about that. Both Rick Currie and Jai Nelson were not backed by the big money players. They are both against improper use of urban renewal and they have concerns and questions about the Ed. Corridor in the Fort Grounds location. So it makes sense that they would draw from a similar pool of voters, with one major difference being the issue of County Administrator. Those in favor would vote for Jai Nelson, those against a County Administrator would vote for Rick Currie. And of course, Rick has his past work record of honesty and standing up for regular folks. But whatever your analysis of the reasons, the final tally left the Cronin supporters just shy of a win, despite spending 5 times more money.

So that’s what I’m celebrating today: “Kootenai County is not for sale!” Congratulations, voters.