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Blind Draw Decides New Knox County Board Chairman

T.J. Carson

Board members could not choose a new chairman through votes. So they used a hat to help decide.

The board took five votes. Each ended in a 7-7 tie between Republican Brian Freidrich and Democrat Lyle Johnson.

County Clerk Scott Erickson said the tie votes put the count in "unchartered waters". Democrats Cheryl Nache and Jeff Jefferson crossed party lines to vote for Friedrich each time

Sheriff David Clague was chosen to draw the name out the hat. He drew Brian Freidrich’s name.

Friedrich said he was encouraged to run for the position, and was curious to learn.

“Main thing was a lot of learning involved, and make things gotta happen I guess," Friedrich said. "And to see how things work more and get more involved in it. And I figure it’s time to pick up the pace a little bit."

"I was kinda wanting to be a chairman of just a committee. But this opportunity come up, so I thought I’d take advantage of it, and jump in with both feet,” Friedrich said.

Friedrich feels his work in getting the 911 referendum passed in November helped him be chosen chairman.

Friedrich said he hopes to keep the board man is to keep it working smoothly.

“I think everybody works good together now, and I do not want to change that. I don’t want it one side versus the other, just want to keep everybody working together,” Friedrich said.

The board elected Democrat Pamela Davidson vice-chairman. The 8-6 vote was the only one needed for the position.