NEBRASKA CITY – Otoe County commissioner Jim Thurman announced Tuesday he will not be serving a second term even if he is re-elected in the November general election.

Thurman plans to complete his four-year term in December before moving to Colorado.

Thurman: “I’m going to finish out this year. I’ll be able to make most of the meetings and there are a few things I’d like to get done.”

Thurman is on the county board sub-committee looking into wind turbine zoning.

There is already one write-in candidate for the position.  Ernest Chad Neubauer, a graduate of Syracuse High School and the University of Nebraska –Lincoln, has filed as a Republican write in candidate.

He said he was encouraged to seek election by the opposition to wind turbines in the southwest of the county.

Write-in candidates for the district one seat, which covers portions of Nebraska City and west to the Village of Otoe, have until Oct. 28.

Thurman won the primary election and it is too late for Thurman's name not to be on the ballot.

County election officials say if he receives the most votes and does not accept, the county board will appoint someone to fill the vacancy.

Thurman said he will miss Nebraska City and plans to visit often.

Thurman: “I’ve been very involved in this community since moving back from college, running a business for over 25 years. I’ve served as president on the chamber of commerce, I’ve been treasurer on economic development. There’s been a lot of fun and great projects I’ve work on and  a lot of great people I’ve worked with.”

Thurman said he thinks there is momentum for progress.

Thurman: “I think it’s important that communities can grow in jobs and grow in housing. Housing and child care have been some challenges. I do think those are improving here in the last year or two.”

The county allocated a portion of its ARPA funds for the housing development project in Nebraska City.

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