Longtime Stoddard County clerk to retire at end of year

BLOOMFIELD, Mo. -- Don White, longtime Stoddard County Clerk, announced this week that he would retire following 23 years in office.

After nearly six terms, and overseeing countless elections, White has decided it is time to hang up his vote counter.

Citing health issues, White said that he has rolled the idea around for quite some time and finally decided it was time.

White will officially retire on Dec. 31.

He said that over the years White has had the privilege to work with a great staff, election judges and numerous others who have helped over the years.

"I've been very fortunate," he said.

In all 23 years of White's service he has faced only one opponent. Now comes the time to find a replacement.

White's replacement will be nominated by Gov. Jay Nixon.

White has made a recommendation and hopes that it will be honored, but acknowledges that he is not the one making the final decision.

Most likely, he said, Nixon will contact the Stoddard County Democrat Central Committee for a final recommendation.

Last week the Stoddard County Democratic Central Committee announced that they would begin taking applications from Democrats who wish to be considered for the appointment to complete this term that runs through next year.

Applications may be obtained from Ronald C. Yersak, Chairman, at 1007 Ridgetop Dr. in Dexter for one day only, Tuesday.

Completed applications must be returned by mail to Ronald C. Yersak at P.O. Box 26, Dexter, Mo. 63841 no later than Tuesday, Nov. 24.

Shortly after the Nov. 24 deadline, the committee will review all applications and make its recommendation to Nixon.

An announcement of White's replacement can be expected some time in December.