A Working Man’s Mayor

David Sims only recently stepped into the shoes of acting mayor for the city of Bonners Ferry. But he brings with him a long legacy of civic service in that his father was himself a mayor of Bonners Ferry for a total of 25 years. Not only was Sims raised in that family tutelage but gained considerable experience appropriate to serving this important office by serving first on the city council, then as assistant city administrator and then put in a stint as director of the Boundary Economic Development Council.

Looks to me like we’ve got a qualified mayor! In addition, he still works (full time) as the store manager at Akins Harvest Foods in downtown Bonners, and you see quickly that we have a man at center post who is devoted to the well-being of his community.

I asked him the following questions:

Your father, Harold Sims, was an outstanding mayor to Bonners Ferry for 25 years. What impressed you most about his long tenure in office?

Certainly his long tenure is an accomplishment, but the relationships that he was able to build while serving as mayor impress me the most. I regularly talk to people across Idaho who have positive memories of my father

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You’ve already had a civic career and you are a hardworking man. What motivated you to run for mayor?

Both my father and mother were actively involved in our community, and it instilled in me a strong interest in city government and an appreciation for public service.

I was elected to the Bonners Ferry City Council in 2007, and after one year on the Council, I became the assistant city administrator so I could be more directly involved with city operations.

In 2012, I resigned (that position) to become the director of the Boundary Economic Development Council. During that term, I decided to run for mayor to better help provide a positive direction for the city and to ensure that Bonners Ferry remains a great place to live.

What is the most important item on your agenda in the near future and why?

One of the most important changes I plan to bring is a shift from short-term planning to more long-term planning, including developing capital replacement plans for the city's infrastructure. I am also devoted to the concept of open government which means I want to encourage citizen input and participation in our city’s government.

What would you tell new people coming into the Bonners Ferry area about living in and around our community, what would you like them to know and understand about the North Idaho community experience?

While Boundary County certainly has tremendous beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, our greatest strength is the integrity of our citizens. I am continually amazed at the quality of the people who live here, both long-time residents and the new residents who’ve chosen to reside here.

What can people do to contribute to the well-being and/or growth of Bonners Ferry and the surrounding area?

New people moving to our area are important for our success. Many rural counties in Idaho are experiencing declining populations, with consequent negative economic impacts. New residents bring purchasing power, and often a source of income, which helps our economy grow.

What industry/industries and/or attitudes contribute in vital ways to a healthy North Idaho economy?

The agriculture and timber industry have historically been the basis for our local economy and will continue to be important in the future. Working in the agriculture or timber industry is demanding, resulting in a great work ethic among our residents.

At the same time, our economy is rapidly diversifying, with tourism and other industries becoming increasingly important to our well-being.

Where should the merchants, entrepreneurs and business people of Bonners Ferry place their hopes for a strong or stronger economic future?

I am bullish on the economic future of our area. A new retail development will be opening on the south hill area of Bonners Ferry this summer or fall and I expect additional development will follow in the same area.

Is this a good place to raise a family? Why?

Boundary County is an excellent place to raise a family. My wife Stephanie and I are raising our two daughters, Isabella and Hannah, here. About fifteen years ago, we moved out of state for about six months, and we couldn't wait to get back to Bonners Ferry. Again, the people make this area a great place to live and raise a family.

That’s a brief look at your new mayor, who he is, how he thinks, and what he hopes to achieve. It’s easy to see, he’s serious about citizen involvement.

How you participate and what you do on any level is first modeled by Sims’ exemplary example. He’s setting the pace. It’s your choice now as to how to help him bring on a positive, productive future.

Dwayne Parsons is a Realtor for Century 21 Beutler & Associates of Coeur d’Alene assigned to work primarily in Boundary County. He can be reached through his email at dparsons@21goldchoice.com.

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