St. Clair County commissioners receive 16 District 5 applications, set special meeting to narrow field

The St. Clair County Board of Commissioners voted to receive and file 16 applications for the District 5 vacancy and scheduled a special meeting at 4 p.m. Thursday the 18th to narrow the field and select candidates for interviews.

The action came after public comment and a staff summary of options for proceedings. Carrie (county administrator) told commissioners, “In front of you today, you have the 16 applications that you have received,” and recommended the board set a process to narrow applicants, schedule interviews and hold a final vote soon.

The board discussed timing and format. Commissioners debated whether to handle candidate introductions at the regular meeting or hold a separate special meeting; several members favored a segregated process to avoid crowding the regular agenda. Commissioner David Rushing moved to receive and file the candidate information; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote after commissioners answered “aye.”

Several residents spoke during the public-comment period, urging the board to choose someone who would represent District 5. Tracy Bergey, identified herself as a Marysville resident, urged commissioners to pick “someone that can work for the people and have the people’s interest at heart” and said she supported Warren Head for the seat. Michael Grover of TriNet Township said he “strongly support[s]” Warren Head and described him as “a man of integrity.” Vicky Blackburn, speaking as a member of Republicans for Democracy, urged civil dialogue but did not endorse a specific candidate.

Commissioners discussed vetting candidates for statutory incompatibilities and conflicts of interest. Carrie said eligibility checks are performed through the county clerk’s office and that the board packet includes a memo on “incompatible offices” and other guidance. Commissioner discussion noted several applicants hold other public positions or county employment that could trigger conflict rules; commissioners said those issues would be resolved if a candidate were chosen (for example, a candidate who is a township supervisor would be expected to resign that office if appointed).

The board noted the appointee would serve only until the next general election and would have to run to keep the seat. As Carrie explained, “Whoever is appointed is not appointed for the remainder of the four‑year term. They are appointed just until the next general election in November,” and would be subject to the usual election process.

Next steps set by the board include a special meeting beginning at 4 p.m. Thursday the 18th to allow each candidate a brief introduction, a narrowing process to identify interviewees, and scheduling follow-up interviews with finalists. The county will post the eligibility/conflict guidance documents in the agenda packet and the county clerk’s office will vet candidates’ formal eligibility before any appointment is finalized.

The board formally received and filed the candidate list by motion; commissioners then closed discussion on the item and moved to other business.