2025 IAC Annual Conference Recap

Last week, more than 260 county elected officials, deputies, staff, and stakeholders gathered at the Riverside Hotel in Boise for the 2025 Idaho Association of Counties Annual Conference. This hallmark event brought together leaders from across the state to prepare for the future through collaboration, innovation, and leadership growth. With six committee meetings and seventeen workshops, attendees shaped their own experience, diving into timely topics and practical solutions tailored to county needs.

Networking, Exhibits, and Energy

The conference floor was buzzing with 43 exhibitors and sponsors eager to connect with county leaders. Corporate Partners were appreciated during our Annual Showcase at Barbarian Brewery, complete with a taco bar, bingo, and plenty of networking opportunities. From casual conversations in hallways to structured workshops, the energy of connection was everywhere.

Big Hair, Big Fun

A highlight of the week was ICRMP’s 40th Anniversary celebration, which kicked off with a throwback 80’s party. Neon, leg warmers, and band tees filled the venue as local band Stylus Down (featuring ICRMP’s own Mike Kane) kept the dance floor alive. 

During the celebration we also hosted our 4th Annual Scholarship Fund Cornhole Tournament, where Bela Kovacs, Kootenai County Assessor, and Doug Williams, Oneida County Sheriff, claimed the championship title. Special thank you to everyone who donated to IAC’s Scholarship Fund by participating in the cornhole tournament, raffle drawings, cookbook sales and bingo! 

Learning and Leadership

Attendees also dove into forward-thinking sessions designed to strengthen counties statewide.

Cybersecurity Lunch (sponsored by ICRMP): Industry experts shared what counties need to know about current cyber threats and how to respond.

Keynote by Dean Gialamas, CEO Authority: A powerful, emotional call to resilient leadership left attendees inspired and ready to embrace change. As Dyson Savage, Kootenai County Chief Deputy Assessor, said: “A very engaging presentation. [Dean] had some great leadership points I will be taking back to the office.”

Keynote with Eliso “Che” Lanuza, Ten Percent: With humor, reflection, and energy, Che helped participants rethink workplace culture and connection in a session that had the room laughing, sharing, and fully engaged.

Policy and Progress

True to IAC’s mission, the conference also centered on shaping the association’s policy platform for the year ahead. Members debated and voted on resolutions during the business meeting, setting the stage for the IAC Legislative Committee to finalize priorities for the 2026 legislative session.

Celebrating Leadership and Service

Recognition was another cornerstone of the week. Graduates of the County Officials Institute and distinguished award winners were honored, including the inaugural presentation of the Daniel G. Chadwick Civility Award, delivered in a heartfelt tribute by his wife Michelle. Additional awards included the Mills-Adler, H. Sydney Duncombe, and more, celebrating excellence and dedication across Idaho counties.

As you connect with peers, take a moment to recognize and celebrate the achievements of this year’s COI graduates and award recipients:

COI Graduates:

– Mark Bolduc, Gooding County Commissioner

– Roger Clark, Jefferson County Commissioner

– Leslie Duncan, Kootenai County Commissioner

– Melissa Fry, Blaine County Chief Deputy Assessor

– Scott Hancock, Jefferson County Commissioner

– Kristine Lund, Jefferson County Treasurer

– Abbie Mace, Fremont County Clerk

– Kim Nuxoll, Idaho County Assessor

– Glenda Poston, Boundary County Clerk

– Mark Swenson, Jerome County Assessor

– Jerry White, Shoshone County Assessor

– Jim Williams, Blaine County Assessor

Mills-Adler Recipients:

– Idaho Association of County Assessors (IACA): Carol Blanchard, Fremont County Assessor

– Idaho Association of County Recorders & Clerks (IACRC): Sharee Sprague, Power County Clerk

– Idaho Association of Commissioners & Clerks (IACC): Rebecca Wood, Lincoln County Commissioner

– Idaho State Association of County Coroners (ISACC): Torey Danner, Bannock County Coroner

– Idaho Prosecuting Attorneys Association (IPAA): Rob Wood, Madison County Prosecuting Attorney

– Idaho Sheriffs’ Association (ISA): Samuel Hulse, Bonneville County Sheriff

– Idaho Association of County Treasurers: Amber Sloan, Elmore County Treasurer

Daniel G. Chadwick Civility Award:

– William “Bill” Thompson, Latah County Prosecuting Attorney

Sydney Duncombe Award:

– Roger Christensen, Bonneville County Commissioner

IAC also welcomed Payette County Sheriff Andy Creech to the Executive Board as 2nd Vice President, joining a dynamic leadership team ready to guide the association into its milestone 50th year. Click here to learn more about the incoming executive board.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 IAC Annual Conference was more than just meetings—it was a celebration of community, leadership, and the future of Idaho’s counties. From policy debates to neon, it truly was a conference for the books. We can’t wait to see you next year as we celebrate IAC’s golden 50th Anniversary!

For all conference photos, check out our Flickr Page.