I want to sincerely apologize for an oversight in this week’s Election Questionnaire feature.
While putting together the submitted questionnaires, I inadvertently missed one candidate’s submission. This was completely my error, and I apologize to the candidate and our readers.
Every candidate deserves the same opportunity to share their responses with our community. His full questionnaire is included below.
I take full responsibility for the mistake and sincerely apologize for the oversight.
Bailey Ervin
Name: Steve Shockley
Town of Residence: 18 miles southwest of Wheatland
Office Sought: County Commissioner
Hi, I’m Steve Shockley, a Republican candidate for Platte County Commissioner. I’m a Platte County native and have lived and worked here for more than 50 years. I grew up on a ranch northwest of Wheatland, where my parents still ranch today. After graduating from Wheatland High School in 1986, I earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business management from the University of Wyoming in 1991 and returned to ranch in the Sybille Canyon area, where I live today. Before becoming a commissioner 16 years ago, I served on the Platte County Resource District Board of Supervisors. I also serve as a trustee for the William Irvine Home and have been a member of the Palmer Canyon Fire Department for more than 25 years. Those experiences taught me the value of listening, working together, and taking care of the place we call home.
1. What motivated you to seek office?
I am seeking another term because I remain committed to serving the people of Platte County and believe my experience can help us meet the challenges ahead. Over the past 16 years, the issues and challenges have changed, but that commitment has remained the same. The job is about much more than attending meetings; it requires research, planning, problem-solving, and being available when people need help.
Throughout my time in office, I have worked to be hands-on and accessible, whether responding during emergencies, helping with county projects, or working through complex issues affecting our community. To me public service means showing up, listening, and doing the work.
It has been an honor to serve the people of Platte County, and I would be grateful for the opportunity to continue working to make our county a place where families can thrive and future generations will choose to live, work, and raise their own families.
2. What would be your top priority if elected?
My top priority is maintaining a balanced budget while continuing to provide the reliable services Platte County residents depend on. County government operates with limited resources, and we must manage taxpayer dollars responsibly.
That means planning for the long term, maintaining our roads, infrastructure, and county assets, and avoiding unnecessary burdens on future taxpayers. Good government means distinguishing between needs and wants, meeting essential needs first, and planning carefully for the future.
3. What do you consider the biggest issue facing this office, and how would you address it?
One of the biggest challenges facing county government today is ensuring that decisions are based on accurate information and fair processes. County commissioners are responsible for making decisions that shape our county and the roads, bridges, and emergency services we are able to offer, as well as impact our neighbors, friends, and taxpayers. The people of Platte County deserve a clear, consistent, rules based process that delivers fair and timely decisions based on fact, not rumor.
That balance requires careful research, transparency, and a willingness to listen to all sides. Throughout my time in office, I have worked to thoroughly research issues, seek input from all involved, and consider both short term and long term impacts before making a decision. I will continue to approach every issue with diligence, transparency, and a commitment to serving the best interests of Platte County.
