Wabel, a detective in the county sheriff's sex-crimes unit, said he initially decided to run because of concerns he had about the commission's actions, such as not having commercial-property assessments completed in a timely manner and a lack of sufficient funds to maintain county roads - a condition he attributed to the stringent fiscal policies of Commissioner Steve White.

But after talking to Ellertson, Wabel said he realized that Ellertson and Commission Chairman Gary Anderson shared his concerns, and he felt the time and money on a campaign would be better spent with his family. He said his wife also is recovering from health issues, and the couple have taken in three foster children.

Ellertson, who is not facing a Democratic challenger, will not be resting on his laurels. He said he plans to attend precinct meetings and talk to constituents. - Donald W. Meyers