Yahn announces bid for county commissioner
Yahn would replace Joe Mcbride, who is term limited, in District 2
Sterling resident Jim Yahn announced that he is running for Logan County Commissioner as a Republican in District 2. District 2 is presently represented by Joe Mcbride who is term limited.
A fourth-generation Logan County native, Yahn said his passion for rural Colorado and Logan County compels him to want to serve as county commissioner.
“With the changes occurring in our state, it is imperative that Logan County’s next commissioner has roots in our county, an eye to the future and connections throughout the state,” Yahn said. “I will be a strong voice for our rural values and lifestyle.
Yahn grew up on his grandfather’s ranch, the J. P. Mckenzie Ranch, with his nine siblings and parents. He graduated from Caliche High School and furthered his education at Northeastern Junior College and Colorado State University securing a degree in agricultural engineering. A professional civil engineer, Yahn is the manager of the Prewitt and North Sterling Reservoir systems.
Yahn is recognized statewide as an authority on water issues, especially in irrigation and the characteristics of the South Platte River. Yahn was appointed to the “SB-03- Committee,” the South Platte Task Force, and was the South Platte director to the Colorado Water Conservation Board from 20162021. He has served on the South Platte Basin Roundtable since its inception in 2005, three years as chairman; for the past 12 years he has been a representative to the Inter-basin Compact Committee. In 2019, Yahn received the Friend of the South Platte Award at the South Platte Forum for his dedication and work.
“As the manager of two reservoirs, I have a clear understanding that Logan County’s economy and future is contingent on having a safe and reliable water supply for our families, farmers and ranchers, businesses and industry,” Yahn said. “I am passionate about rural Colorado and I want to serve the people of Logan County. I look forward to using
my unique set of skills, experiences and knowledge for the betterment of our community as your future County Commissioner.”
Yahn and his wife, Tracy, have two grown children and two grandsons. He served on the Northeastern Junior College Advisory Council for eight years and is an elder at the United Church of Crook.
While making his announcement, Yahn waxed poetically about his love of his homeland.
“I want to continue to make Logan County a place that is family friendly,” he said, “a place where people step up when neighbors are in need, a place where people still honor God and country, a place that becomes so much a part of you that you long to come home.”