District 2 Commissioner Bob Bugert Announces His Retirement

At the beginning of his term, Commissioner Bob Bugert stated that he would only serve a max of two terms. Now Bugert has announced that he will step down from his seat as District 2 Chelan County Commissioner at the end of December.

"I'm at the age where I would like to focus some of my energy on some volunteer work within the community and to explore other passions."

Bugert’s professional career has included work on the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust, while also focusing on housing, transportation, and climate change issues. He hopes to continue working within local nonprofit sectors.

Bugert was elected to his current District 2 seat in November, 2017. District 2 oversees matters within Leavenworth, Cashmere, and western Wenatchee. He describes his term as a productive four years in office and wanted to give enough time for potential candidates to work on their campaign.

"It's the diversity of the job is what really makes it challenging, but also makes it the most rewarding. A person can work on a number of issues ranging from homelessness to wildfires to some of our major public works projects going on to management of the jail and our veterans program. It is really a remarkably diverse program. A suite of responsibilities, which makes it very challenging yet rewarding."

Bugert states that he wished to have more time to assist with the potential development of a lumber mill within the county. He is most proud of his involvement with the Chelan County's adoption of the Climate Change Resiliency Strategy, the creation of Equity Alliance, and with finding a solution to the challenging short-term rental situation.

"It's been an enriching and rewarding experience, and I encourage those folks that are considering it to take the plunge and do it. It's has many rewards."

Those interested in running for the Chelan County Commissioner seat must reside in District 2 in order to qualify.The election filing date will be due during the week of May 16-20.

To learn more about campaign resources, you can visit this link for more information.