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"I am privileged the people of District four in Huron County have let me serve as their Commissioner for three terms, but I feel it is time for a change," said Haldane. He added, "I have worked with three different boards in changing different policies for Huron County."

He feels the biggest change or challenge is the county's health insurance which seemed to cause a burden on the county finances.

"The introduction of an AD HOC Committee (for health insurance) has resulted in the county being self-insured and contracting with an independent company to serve and advise," explained Haldane.

He commends the county department heads and other elected officials for following suit and the coordination of efforts to reduce the county deficit.

"Yes, we did it, from a red budget, to a budget that is finally in the black," said Haldane.

Haldane began his opportunity with the Huron County Board of Commissioners in 2003; his first term in office. He continued for two additional terms and will complete his final term at the end of this year, according to Board of Commissioners Assistant Jodi Essenmacher.

"I got more involved in politics with my involvement with Colfax Township, so I started paying closer attention to the township and county details. I felt my township

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needed a strong voice within the county," explained Haldane.

He added, "I had some new ideas to offer and decided to run for the office."

Haldane and his wife Sharon reside in Colfax Township and as he explained their family is growing. When he began his first term, the couple had three grandchildren, they now have eleven. He is looking forward to spending more time with his family.

"I am going to miss it. I have met a lot of interesting people and made many friendships," said Haldane.

He feels the timing may be appropriate for a change as he has helped make changes for Huron County and many of his concerns for the townships have been addressed.

"I feel I have accomplished what I set out to accomplish, it was not just me but the entire board working together," said Haldane. He added, "I like to think I contributed to work things out."

"One fact that you learn very quickly about the Board of Commissioners is that you personally are only one vote on any one issue and everyone has to work together to accomplish the goals of the Board," said Haldane.

He felt he could make a difference with his ideas, and many new changes have occurred in the county. Haldane says even a greater satisfaction for him is the finding of a solution along with other board members and seeing positive results.

"I have met and shared ideas with a lot of interesting people and I hope this process continues to expand my life, as a contribution to the community," said Haldane.

Now then, what will happen with the "open" seat on the Huron County Board of Commissioners?

Since Haldane's term is due to cease at the end of this year, it will be up to other registered voters to seek the position.

"The seat will be an open seat. Anyone that is a registered voter in the District and is interested in the seat may run," said Huron County Clerk Peggy Koehler.

There are some stipulations, facts and additional information available for those seeking the seat.

"They may pick up a packet from the Clerk's office that has all the instructions, information and forms, everything they need to run for the seat," explained Koehler.

The filing deadline for the position in May 13, at which time the forms and information must be filed with the Huron County Clerk's Office.