In 1916, when the Lassen County Courthouse and the County Hospital was under construction, the Board of Supervisors were faced with a new challenge-how to furnish them. They were concerned that every elected official to occupy the new building would run amuck and end up with a hodgepodge of furniture and equipment. Cost was an issue too,. The solution to create a new county position- a purchasing agent. It did not go over well, but the board stood by their controversial decision.

Elmer F. Koken (1871-1968) held the position for decades. During the financial depression of the 1930s, critics wanted the position eliminated as a cost cutting measure. The board said no. The board stated the purchasing agent scrutinized every purchase and saved the county money. Mark Totten served as the last purchasing agent. In the late 1980s, the position was abolished with the creation of a County Administrative Office who assumed that role along many other functions.

Tim

P..S. It is August 1. In Susanville, it is historically the hottest week of the year..