Jaderlund to retire June 30; GOP begins process to fill auditor seat

EPHRATA — After nearly 35 years in public service, Grant County Auditor Michele Jaderlund will retire June 30, opening the door for both an interim appointment and an upcoming election. 

“I have almost 35 years here; I think I have done my job serving my community,” Jaderlund said. 

The Grant County Republican Party is now seeking applicants to fill the vacancy until the end of Jaderlund’s term. According to a statement from the party’s central committee, those interested have until 5 p.m. June 12 to apply. Applications must include a cover letter, resume and three professional references with contact information and can be submitted to [email protected]. 

The party will conduct interviews June 15, after which it will rank and forward its top three candidates to the Grant County Commissioners. The commissioners will then appoint one of those candidates to serve the remainder of the term. 

The position will also appear on the ballot in the November general election. Three candidates — Andrew Koeppen, Darci Homesley and Shannon Falstad — have filed to run for the office. 

Jaderlund said she is looking forward to retirement after decades of service. 

“I will be out of the country come July 1,” she said.  

Jaderlund and her husband have planned a trip to Canada, to spend time together and decompress.  

“My husband has been retired for two years and is just waiting for me to finally join him. I look forward to spending more time with him,” Jaderlund said.