New Sandpoint Council members sworn in

By Cameron Rasmusson
Reader Staff

Shannon Williamson, Joel Aispuro and John Darling were sworn in as Sandpoint City Council members Wednesday, ushering in a new year for the governing body.

Joel Aispuro. Photos by Cameron Rasmusson.

Following their wins in the city’s November elections, Aispuro and Darling began their first City Council terms after the ceremony, while Williamson started her second term. The reconstituted City Council then unanimously voted that Williamson continue serving in her role as council president.

“It would just be an honor to continue to serve as council president,” Williamson said.

The three new council members won their seats in a field of six candidates, which also included Jeff Bohnhof, Mose Dunkel and Robert Jediny. In total, Aispuro received 649 votes, Bohnhof received 484 votes, Darling received 578 votes, Dunkel received 123 votes, Jediny received 123 votes and Williamson received 735 votes.

Aispuro and Darling replaced Stephen Snedden, who was appointed to serve out a partial term when then-council member Shelby Rognstad was elected mayor, and Bob Camp on the City Council. A longtime council member, Camp received a standing ovation when he relinquished his chair.

Rognstad said it was a pleasure serving with Camp and praised his knack for independent thinking.

Shannon Williamson.

“Bob has often been the lone dissenting vote, or, in some cases, there’s been five dissenting votes and then there’s been Bob,” Rogstad said. “So he’s certainly kept the debate lively and diverse, and he’s brought a fresh perspective to the council.”

Reflecting on his time on the council, Camp said he believes he saw the transition from one era of Sandpoint history to another, particularly with the hiring of City Administrator Jennifer Stapleton and the adoption of new technology. He also commented on his experience overcoming pancreatic cancer three years ago and said how his faith sustained him. He hopes to see a return of the traditional invocation that opens a council session.

“I’m here to tell you, prayer works,” he said.

John Darling.

In keeping with his reputation, when it came time to vote on the consent calendar — a collection of routine agenda items that require council approval — Camp joked, “Do you want me to vote no?” before voting in its favor.