Butler County’s eastern and western county commissioners both announced their retirements Friday. Their last day in office will be Dec. 31.
The positions will be determined by this year’s August primary and November general election.
Western Commissioner Dennis “Boots” LeGrand was elected in 2016 after a career with Municipal Utilities, hoping to apply his experience to the commissioner’s office. He has been satisfied with his job but believes it is time to step back.
“My wife retired and we’d like to do some traveling. I’ll be 70 years old when I walk out, and it’s time to quit. I’ve enjoyed it,” LeGrand said.
Don “Butch” Anderson was elected in 2008 after retiring from the Missouri Department of Transportation and stated he is stepping down for health reasons.
“It’s been a pleasure to serve the constituents in this county,” said Anderson.
Presiding Commissioner Vince Lampe praised both men for their dedication, saying, “These guys are both servants in my opinion. They’ve helped me with every task we’ve come across.”
Election filing for the primary election opens at 8 a.m. Feb. 27. Filing for county office will be done at the Butler County Clerk’s office and runs through March 26. Candidates will appear on the Aug. 6 ballot in order of filing. Each must present proof of identification, a $100 filing fee and an affidavit of tax payment for 5120, which is available from the county clerk’s office.
If a candidate wants to reserve a place in line, they may present themselves early at the county clerk’s office at 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 23. Candidates on the filing list not appearing by 8 a.m. on the following days will forfeit their position in line. Before Feb. 23, a representative may wait in the candidate’s place.
The party winner from the primary election, along with any independent candidates who file under the guidelines, will move onto the general election.
More information is available by calling County Clerk Donna Hillis at 573-686-8050 or visiting butlercountymo.com.