Park County’s new contingent of elected officials was sworn in the morning of Jan. 3 in front of family, friends and colleagues, some to positions they’ve served in for many years, some to a new role.

Two of those made history.

District Court Judge Bill Simpson, as he swore in Darrell Steward to succeed his brother Scott Steward as sheriff, noted that it was the first time in the county’s history that two family members were sworn in at once. Scott Steward had earlier that morning been sworn in as a new county commissioner.

Simpson, who said he was probably the only one there aside from the brothers who’d been warned by their father, late Cody Police Officer Mel Steward, thanked the two brothers for their service to the county.

“One of the blessings of my life is watching people change and grow,” he said. “I know your father would be so proud of you both today.”

He noted the sacrifice all of those sworn in were making to serve a county that has meant so much to him.

“I don’t think there’s ever been a finer group of individuals I’ve worked with in 40 years,” he said. “It’s a sacrifice for you and for your families as well.”

Newly sworn in county elected officials included:

Commissioners: Dossie Overfield, Lloyd Thiel and Scott Steward

Sheriff: Darrell Steward

Coroner: Cody Gortmaker

Assessor: Pat Meyer

Treasurer: Barb Poley

Clerk: Colleen Renner

Attorney: Bryan Skoric

Clerk of District Court: Deb Carroll