The Okanogan County commissioners appointed Melanie Bailey as the prosecuting attorney after interviewing two candidates on Monday (Jan. 11).
Bailey replaces Arian Noma, who announced his resignation in December. In accordance with the state constitution, since Noma was a Republican, the Okanogan County Republican Party submitted nominees to the commissioners to fill out Noma’s term.
The party solicited letters of interest and of recommendation from interested candidates. They also asked the candidates to complete a questionnaire. The party was entitled to submit up to three names to the commissioners, but only two people applied, Okanogan County Human Resources Director Tanya Craig said.
The commissioners interviewed Bailey and David Stevens during Monday’s open public meeting. In their resolution appointing Bailey, they said she “has the skill, ability, and knowledge that qualifies her for the appointment.”
Noma’s last day is Friday (Jan. 15). Bailey will start at 12:01 a.m. on the following day.
The next election is in 2022 and Bailey will have to run and win to remain in the position, Craig said.
More information will be available about Bailey’s background and experience in next week’s Methow Valley News.
