Shoshone County Struggles to Fill Public Works Director Role

Low pay cited as key factor in lack of applicants for critical infrastructure management position

Mar. 31, 2026 at 8:05am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a polished metal wrench, a hardhat, and a set of road construction cones arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background, conceptually representing the essential equipment for public infrastructure maintenance.The tools of the trade for Shoshone County's public works department lie idle as the county struggles to fill a critical leadership role.Wallace Today

Shoshone County in Idaho has been unable to fill its vacant public works director position for over two months, with the former director resigning due to budget constraints and public scrutiny. County commissioners discussed the issue, acknowledging that the starting salary of $51,000 is well below the average for similar roles in the state, making it difficult to attract qualified candidates to oversee the county's 400 miles of roads and other critical infrastructure.

Why it matters

The public works director role is essential for managing a county's roads, bridges, snow removal, drainage, and other vital public infrastructure. Shoshone County's inability to fill this position raises concerns about the long-term maintenance and operations of its transportation network and other key services.

The details

The former public works director, Jessica Stutzke, resigned in late January after months of frustration over budget constraints and public scrutiny. County commissioners discussed the issue, with Commissioner Dave Dose noting that the county not only needs to hire a new director but also fill additional vacant positions at the county shop near Murray. A recent wage study identified the public works director position as needing immediate attention due to its low pay, which is between $10,000 and $20,000 below the average starting wage for similarly sized counties in Idaho.

  • Jessica Stutzke submitted her letter of resignation in late January.
  • The county commissioners discussed the department's status and next steps during a meeting last Wednesday.

The players

Jessica Stutzke

The former public works director who resigned in late January after months of frustration over budget constraints and public scrutiny.

Dave Dose

A county commissioner who serves as the board's liaison to public works.

Melissa Cowles

A county commissioner who suggested holding another meeting and including the County Clerk to explore possible budget shifts.

Jeff Zimmerman

A county commissioner who suggested looking at whether additional funds could be generated through Good Neighbor Authority projects.

Lori Osterberg

The Shoshone County Clerk.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're not bailing water as fast as we're sinking.”

— Dave Dose, County Commissioner

“We should fund this from something that's permanent. We know the message, we're going to have to find the money somewhere.”

— Dave Dose, County Commissioner

What’s next

The commissioners plan to revisit the issue of funding a competitive salary for the public works director position later this week.

The takeaway

Shoshone County's struggle to fill the critical public works director role highlights the challenges rural communities face in attracting and retaining qualified personnel for essential infrastructure management positions, particularly when salaries lag behind regional averages. Addressing this issue will require the county to prioritize sustainable funding sources to offer competitive compensation.