Richard Grissom has resigned as a Warren County commissioner for District 3. The vacancy will be filled in the General Election in August.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve Warren County,” said Grissom, who offered no reason for his departure. “If I can be of any assistance during this transition, please let me know.”
The vacancy will be placed on the Warren County General Election ballot in August. A special qualifying deadline has been established, and candidates have until June 12 at noon to quality.
Whomever is elected will serve until August 2022 when all 24 seats on the Warren County County Commission are up for grabs.
Remaining commissioners can appoint someone to fill Grissom’s spot until the August election. If they choose to do so, that will likely occur during next month’s regular session on May 18 at 6:30 p.m.
Nominations could be made by members of the public, commissioners or the county executive. Public nominations can be submitted in writing to the county executive’s office. In order for a name to be considered, a member of the commission or the county executive must formally nominate the person.
General rules for appointment:
• Nominees must be qualified voters, residents of the district of the vacant seat, and at least 18 years of age.
• Commissioners may make multiple nominations.
• Persons nominated by members of the public must be present at the vote or must have previously submitted in writing a statement of their willingness to accept the nomination and serve in the role if elected.
According to the voting procedure, each county commissioner will be allowed only one “yes” vote that they can be cast to any nominee. The first nominee to receive an affirmative majority, which is 12, will be sworn into office.
Grissom’s resignation letter was unanimously approved by the 23-member County Commission on Monday night. He was not in attendance, but words of appreciation were made.
“Commissioner Grissom served Warren County and the people of his district well,” said Commissioner Tommy Savage. “We appreciate his dedication and service.”
Commissioner Carl E. Bouldin added, “Richard Grissom was a good fella. He served the county well. He was an excellent gentleman and he’s going to be missed, especially by me. I think the world of Richard Grissom.”
For more information about the upcoming election on Aug. 6 or to pick up qualifying papers for District 3 commissioner, contact the Warren County Election Commission at 473-5834. The office is located at 201 Locust Street with hours: Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
No other qualifying deadline will be extended.
