County accepts Justice of the Peace Ronald McBroom’s resignation, authorizes solicitation of applicants

Johnson County commissioners accepted the resignation of Justice of the Peace Ronald McBroom (Precinct 1), effective December 31, 2025, and authorized the county to solicit applications to fill the unexpired term beginning January 1, 2026.

The judge explained McBroom initially indicated he would not seek reelection but has decided to retire at year’s end. "He initially announced he was not gonna seek reelection, but he has decided to retire at the end end of this calendar year," the judge said, and described a proposed open, application-based process that would allow any qualified resident of Precinct 1 to apply for appointment.

Commissioners discussed precedent and the timing of filings: December 8 was noted as the filing date that will make primary winners known, and the court considered whether to appoint a short-term caretaker appointee or defer the appointment until the primary outcome. County staff will advertise the vacancy and accept applications; the court discussed conducting interviews similar to department head appointments to ensure transparency.

A motion to accept the resignation and proceed with soliciting applications was made, seconded and approved unanimously. Motion: accept resignation of Judge Ronald McBroom effective 12/31/2025 and authorize solicitation of applications for the unexpired term beginning 01/01/2026; Mover: Commissioner Bailey; Second: Commissioner Willie; Vote: unanimous.

Court members said they intend to plan a public recognition ceremony for McBroom and will follow an open and transparent appointment process if an interim appointment is necessary.