Today the two Uintah County Commissioners will handle the next step in filling the vacant Commission seat. The Uintah County Republican Committee delivered their letter to the Commission on Wednesday selecting Duane Shepherd as the replacement for Mike McKee on the County Commission. Duane Shepherd issued the following statement:
I am thrilled by the Uintah County Republican Committee’s choice to select me to fill the rest of Mike McKee’s term. I have received well wishes and congratulations from all over Uintah County, the State of Utah, and from our National Delegation. That being said, I know that the committee’s choice isn’t really about Duane. It’s about finding the right person to navigate through the next couple of years that knows the process and procedures and can work with the two sitting Commissioners.
We have a lot to get accomplished and there is much opportunity waiting for Uintah County that will help create a more stable economy. While we have to be careful what we’re spending and be frugal, we need to continue to build worthwhile infrastructure that will enhance our ability to attract more businesses that want to locate here. We have two ways of moving things in an out of our county, by road, and by air. Those two areas need special attention and if we improve them, the livelihoods of Uintah County residents will improve also. In the long run, it will help with our tax base and an increase in Mineral Lease funds that all of the Special Service Districts need. With the increase in Health care costs throughout the nation and locally, our Health Special Service District where we take care of our elderly, warrants special consideration. We have to take care of those that cannot take care of themselves.
I need to thank the members of the Republican Committee for their diligence in the selection process. Theirs was a difficult one made even more arduous with recent criticism. They followed the bylaws created by the Republican Delegates and followed Utah State code. Even with that, they kept the process unspoiled by careful screening and strict guidelines. I am truly humbled to have them select me when there are so many good people in this county.
I thank Mike McKee for his many years of service as Commissioner. I have spoken with him and wish to draw from his strengths and build upon the good things he’s done while in office. He truly loves the people of Uintah County and is still working for us, just in a new capacity as the Executive Director for the Seven County Infrastructure Coalition.
For public knowledge, I recused myself from the committee from the very beginning and had no say or influence in any part of the process. Of that, there can be no doubt. I don’t believe the committee had my name in mind when the process started but in letting it run its course, ultimately, my name was the one they submitted.
I pledge to humbly serve the citizens of this county and invite everyone to come in and meet me and get to know me better. I’m excited to work with you all and look forward to a successful term.
Thank you all for your support and your prayers,
Duane W Shepherd
