HUTCHINSON, Kan. – County Commissioner James Schlickau has made it official that he will conduct a write in campaign to retain his seat on the commission with the Nov. 8 election.

He lost his second district county commissioners seat to challenger Ron Hirst in the August primary by only 37 votes and says because the vote was so close.

He says in a news release that the support for him mounting this campaign has been overwhelming.

He says being a 4 th generation crop farmer and cattle rancher, he understands the challenges and issues residents face in the rural communities throughout the county and says he has worked diligently to provide necessary and essential services in an equitable and consistent manner.

He says he also advocates for fiscal responsibility and has been involved in county budgeting for the eight years he has been a commissioner. He says the mill levy has only increased slightly over 3 mills since he took office and those were dedicated to road and bridge improvements throughout the county, otherwise the mill levy for the county has remained flat.

He says he’s seeking to retain his seat in a capable and responsible manner, but he admits that running a write in campaign will be a challenge since his name will not appear in the ballot and says he is often asked if his name has to be spelled correctly on the ballot? He says “no.” But adds, “it should be as close as possible.” He says the “intent” of the voter is considered.