Members of the Butler County Republican Central Committee elected new officers Tuesday, naming Joe Leahy as chairperson and June Rigby as vice chairperson.
Former chairperson Eddy Justice stepped down after eight years and will now serve as secretary, according to members. Cindi Bowman will continue as treasurer.
Leahy has been involved with the committee for approximately eight years, serving as secretary for the past six. He is a project engineer at Smith & Company.
"I've just enjoyed being active in the community and understanding the process of how we have elected leaders," said Leahy, 53, who joined the committee when he retired from the U.S. National Guard after more than 20 years of service.
Members are preparing for their annual Reagan Days, to be held Sept. 8, and the November general election, Leahy said.
The Reagan Days event will honor Speaker of the House Todd Richardson and other area officials. It will be held at Holiday Inn.
It's important citizens be involved, said Rigby, 60, who has been active with the committee for more than six years. Rigby is also active in her church, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and volunteers with Hearts for Rescue, an area group that fosters animals waiting for permanent homes.
"I think I've always been somewhat involved in politics, at least on a very personal level, making sure I knew what the issues were and what the principles are that I think are important," Rigby said. "It's really important ... that we make our voices heard, and that we are really involved in the process."
Rigby encouraged others to get involved, saying the experience has been very enjoyable and the group is very welcoming.
"It's great when the community really expresses itself, that way their elected leaders can hear what they're saying," she said.
Tickets for Reagan Days are $25 and can be purchased from committee members or Justice's office at 204 Ferguson St., during normal business hours or by appointment.