Joe Palmer was born and raised right here in Ada County.  Like most, he loved growing up in Idaho, so he and wife Leslie decided to make Meridian home for their own family.  Since that decision, Joe has been busy raising 4 kids, running his small business, and staying active in his community.

Growing up with his dad, Chuck Palmer—Ada  County Sherriff,  Joe gained an acute sense of right and wrong.   Responsibility, respect, honesty and courteous behavior were hallmarks of the Palmer home.  Hard work, discipline and teamwork were values gained from long summer days spent at the ranch raising cattle.  The teachings in his home established a solid foundation that prepared him to serve a full time LDS mission in Montana, continue his schooling, acquire and manage a small business, and most importantly fulfill his role as dad to his four kids.

Following his Meridian High School graduation Joe attended Ricks College.  Joe’s sense of duty compelled him to join the Idaho Army National Guard where he served for three years. Joe then earned a Vo-Tech degree at Boise State University where his dedication to his schoolwork earned him a place on the Dean’s List.

After college graduation he and his wife purchased their first business here in Meridian, Cherry’s Built -In Vacs. This business was successfully managed for 16 years. After selling Cherry’s Built -In Vacs in 2002, Joe and Leslie opened Cherry’s Consignment Home Furnishings were they continue to work today.  Joe also assisted his brother at Pat Palmer Construction. Being a business owner, builder, and taxpayer has kept him busy and involved in the local community.

If you were to catch Joe in his free time you would most likely find him in the clouds—literally.  He has been a licensed private pilot for 16 years and enjoys flying Idaho’s breathtaking backcountry in the plane he built himself.   

Joe Palmer is grounded in his father’s solid conservative values. He faces a problem squarely and doesn’t back away or skirt around issues.   His consistent record of hard work and dedication in his schooling, business, and family are witnesses of his ability to achieve goals.  Joe’s love of country, commerce, and family draw him to public service as District 20’s Legislative Representative.