Get to Know
Kelly Coursey
Veteran. Business Owner. Your Neighbor.
Who I Am
I'm Kelly Coursey, and I'm running for Clearwater County Commissioner, District 2, in the Republican Primary on May 19, 2026.
I'm a retired U.S. Army combat veteran with 24+ years of dedicated service and proven leadership. After serving our country, I came home to serve our community. I'm co-owner with my wife of the Wild Hare Fabric Store in Orofino and CWC Accounting Solutions — so I understand what it takes to keep a small business running and keep our neighbors employed.
I currently serve as a member of the I currently serve as a member of the Clearwater County Planning & Zoning Commission, where I've been a strong and passionate defender of property rights. I know firsthand how county government works — and where it's falling short., where I've been a strong and passionate defender of property rights. I know firsthand how county government works — and where it's falling short.
Why I'm Running
I'm not here for the paycheck. I'm here for Clearwater County — and every town in it: Orofino, Ahsahka, Pierce, Weippe, Greer, Headquarters, Cardiff, Elk River, and every backroad between.
I know what keeps this county going: timber that pays, rivers and trails that draw people, and small businesses that hire our kids and neighbors.
Clearwater County deserves a commissioner with undivided attention. Many residents are concerned that the incumbent also serves as Orofino Police Chief. My focus will be 100% on our county and serving you.
Full-Time Effort for Full-Time Pay
Commissioners received a 65% pay increase in the last 5 years. The Chair makes more than $51,000 per year plus full benefits, and non-chair members make more than $40,000 per year plus full benefits.
The official schedule lists 9 hours every Monday plus occasional off-site meetings, but actual sessions typically end by 11:30 a.m. with built-in "admin time" — for a maximum of about 4 hours per week.
Clearwater County deserves full-time effort for full-time pay — or the salary should be cut to match the real time commitment. At this pay rate, I will treat the commissioner position as a full-time job and dedicate the time and effort our county deserves.