Idaho Association of County Treasurers – 101st Annual Conference

Written by: Beth Mahn, Ada County Treasurer

In August, Idaho’s county treasurers gathered in Burley for the IACT Conference and the association’s 101st anniversary. This annual event reunites treasurers to strengthen our shared commitment to leadership, education, camaraderie, and lasting friendships as we serve our communities.

IACT President Annette Dygert opened the conference by unveiling this year’s theme: Strong Roots, Bright Future; 101 Years of Excellence. She reflected on the generations of dedicated treasurers who came before us, the integrity and accountability that guide us, and the resilience that will carry us forward. We were pleased to welcome special guests Sen. Kelly A. Anthon and Idaho State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth before diving into the education sessions. We explored how leaders of multigenerational teams can navigate differences in communication styles, technology fluency, and workplace expectations. The AI session took us on a creative adventure. We reimagined an orange as a banana and even composed an original hiphop song for treasurers, “Fiscal Fear,” complete with its catchy chorus, “Another Line Item.”

The presenters kept us engaged and motivated. They inspired us to be our best selves; advised us on laws related to capital investments; and reminded us to work closely with our clerks during tax turnover. During the always-popular Ask it Basket with Seth Grigg of IAC, we were awash in debate over certifications by water districts, sewer districts, recreation districts, irrigation districts and/or drainage districts! A standout moment was the optional excursion to Pomerelle Mountain Resort. The scenic drive through the Magic Valley—complete with grazing cows and sweeping views—ended at the lodge, where attendees enjoyed a barbeque and chairlift rides to the peak.

Back in session, we reviewed the upcoming budget, heard committee reports, and nominated officers. At the installation banquet along the beautiful Snake River, several treasurers were recognized for earning continuing education designations. With mixed emotions, we honored nine treasurers entering retirement. The evening concluded with the ceremonial passing of the gavel, where outgoing officers shared their wisdom and goodwill with the newly installed leadership team, including incoming IACT President Sabrina Young. Congratulations to Tanna Beal, Bingham County, for receiving the IACT Mills-Adler award.

Executive Board for 2026-2027:
President: Sabrina Young, Washington County
Vice President: Lana Schwartz, Clark County
Secretary: Gina Turner, Boise County
Treasurer: Leigh Love, Oneida County
Parliamentarian: Kristine Lund, Jefferson County
Historian: Joan Howell, Payette County
Past President: Annette Dygert, Owyhee County.

Thank you to the District IV treasurers for a successful conference, and to our vendors for their ongoing support. We wish our retirees the best and look forward to next year’s conference. As we celebrate 101 years of service, we thank Past President Dygert for her leadership this year and her inspiring message: “Like sunflowers rooted deep in the soil, may we continue to stand strong, turn toward the light, and grow together… into a bright and promising future.”