Mayor nominates Coeur d’Alene attorney for City Council Seat 3

Mayor Dan Gookin on Jan. 10 nominated Coeur d’Alene attorney Dan Sheckler to fill the vacant City Council Seat 3, a decision that will shape local leadership on growth, infrastructure and public safety if the council confirms the pick at its Jan. 20 meeting.

Sheckler, a practicing attorney in Coeur d’Alene, was one of three finalists interviewed by councilmembers on Thursday; the others were Tonya Coppedge and Todd Tondee. If confirmed, Sheckler will serve the remainder of the term through Jan. 4, 2028. Gookin framed the nomination as the result of a deliberate process, saying the city was “fortunate to have such a strong group of qualified applicants who truly care about our community,” and that Sheckler “brings the right experience and fresh perspective to serve our residents.”

In remarks accompanying the nomination, Sheckler said he was humbled and emphasized a law-trained approach to decision-making. “If I am confirmed by the Council, I look forward to serving all the citizens of Coeur d’Alene to the best of my ability,” he said. “I believe I am a good fit because I listen carefully to competing interests, respect established process and make fair, practical decisions grounded in the law and informed by community input.” He identified growth management as a central council responsibility, arguing that the city can address pressures through infrastructure, police and fire services and “long-term stewardship rather than short-term pressures.” Sheckler added that he expected to fit in well on the council.

Council members who participated in the finalist interviews praised the pool of candidates and endorsed the mayor’s selection. Councilor Amy Evans said the applicants were impressive and that “Dan has a lot to offer council, and I believe he'll be able to hit the ground running and will be a fair and reasonable voice for the citizens.” Councilman Dan English noted that “all three were really strong candidates,” and that “Dan Sheckler came highly recommended.” Councilor Christie Wood called Sheckler “a true professional” with substantial life and work experience, while Councilman Kenny Gabriel said it was a tough choice and that the mayor “made it and I think it's a very good decision.”

For Kootenai County residents, the nomination matters because the City Council will continue making decisions that affect housing, traffic, utility investments and emergency services as Coeur d’Alene grows. A vote on Jan. 20 will finalize whether Sheckler joins an eight-member council whose choices will influence development patterns and municipal priorities through 2028.

Our two cents? Watch the Jan. 20 meeting or submit your comments beforehand if you want a say in who steers Coeur d’Alene through near-term growth challenges; focus on clear priorities like roads, water capacity and public safety so councilmembers hear what matters most to your neighborhood.