There will be a changing of the guard when it comes to the Parke County Commissioners, as long time Commissioner Jim Meece was defeated Tuesday night by Dr. Donna Smith.
Smith, who had served the last eight years as the Parke County Coroner, defeated the 24-year incumbent by a margin of 1,561 votes to 919 or 62.94 percent to 37.06 percent in the District 3 race.
For Smith, the win solidified a belief that the district was ready for a new set of eyes and ideas.
"Even though plenty of people were preaching "time for change," I know he's done a lot of good, and it's still going to be big shoes to fill. I am looking forward to learning as much as I can in the next eight months so that I can hit the ground running," Smith told The Parke County Post.
As for Meece, he acknowledged he was "fine" with the result.
"I lost big, and I am fine with that. Twenty-four years is enough. I had no expectations, so, no, not surprised. I really didn't know how it would go. I have 240 days left to finish some things I've started," Meece told The Parke County Post.
In the District 2 race, incumbent Bruce Hartman retained his seat, holding off challenges from both Cameron Martin and Jeffrey A. Ramey II.
Hartman secured 1,186 votes or 49.09 percent, while Martin finished second with 761 votes or 31.5 percent and Ramey had 469 votes or 19.41 percent.
Sumner election petitions available
New housing subdivision moving forward in Vincennes
Parkside Elementary will open next week
Restaurant at Red Hill State Park under new ownership
Bridgeport Water boil order lifted
Lawrence County Chamber recognizes Salyers; have begun executive director search
Lawrence County Board hears about data centers and the county jail
Parkside Elementary opening delayed again
Knox County's Clayton Newton earns honors at the Indiana State Fair
Indiana launches emergency program for veterans impacted by historical flooding
Illinois State Police deploy new Bicycle Response Team
Flood warning continues for Wabash River at Vincennes; eastern Lawrence County (ILL.) flooding possible
IDOT teaming with GWRPC to get public travel input
Indiana Gov. Braun secures federal assistance, provides update on statewide storm response
Lawrenceville receives federal E.P.A. report on public water system
Knox County tornado assessment issued by the NWS
