Courtroom renamed in honor of Idaho’s longest serving elected official
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IDAHO FALLS – A Bonneville County courtroom has been dedicated to Idaho’s longest-serving elected official.
County Clerk Ronald Longmore began his service Oct. 27, 1975. Now, 10 elections later, Longmore plans to step down.
“When I first started we had typewriters and carbon paper and mimeograph machines, and PCs didn’t exist,” Longmore said. “So you can see where we’ve come.”
Longmore was surprised with a retirement celebration Wednesday by county officials. During the celebration, the Centennial Courtroom was renamed and dedicated as the Ronald Longmore Centennial Courtroom.
Co-workers and well-wishers nearly filled the courtroom as some spoke about Longmore’s 41 years of service as clerk for Bonneville County.
Penny Manning, elections supervisor, will be taking over the position after Longmore officially retires at the end of the month.
“It’s a little overwhelming,” Manning said. “I don’t think anybody can measure up to Ron. But I will do the best I can.”
Manning said she has worked with Longmore for seven years.
“I took over the elections office in 2012 as the supervisor, and he has been right by my side teaching me and training me every step of the way,” she said.
Trial Court Administrator Burt Butler called Longmore a “unique individual in terms of his understanding of the county elected clerk position in government.”
“I just developed a lot of respect for his knowledge and his willingness to, in a low-key, quiet sort of way, just impart his knowledge,” Butler said.
Longmore said he is retiring because he and his wife want to be closer to their children who live Utah.
“I’m just amazed and honored that the people came,” Longmore said to his supporters. “I’m so grateful for these years here and for the opportunity of living in this community for all these years.”