County Clerk Don White announces retirement

Corey Noles photo White sits at his desk in the Stoddard County Government Building. While he is still just getting settled in, in just a few short weeks he will be packing up again.

Don White, longtime Stoddard County Clerk, announced this week that he would retire following 23 years of service.

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

Citing health issues with both him and his wife, he 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, 2009.

He said that over the years he 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 come directly from the office of 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.

Filing for the Aug. 3, 2010 primary election will officially open on Feb. 23, 2010 and close on March 30, 2010.

Following the August primary, the actual general election will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2010.

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 on Tuesday, Nov. 10 only.

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.