By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Elections were won in November but those elected officials are just now assuming their roles in their respective offices. With two uncontested races for the five Barton County Commission spots in November, there were no changes to the board's personnel this year. However, Tuesday morning, Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson and the panel voted Tricia Schlessiger as commission chair for the upcoming year.
"With Commissioner Schlessinger, I've seen her do her job exceptionally well and take the time it takes to actually make a difference in the community," Hutchinson said. "With that, I'd like to move to appoint Tricia Schlessiger as chairman of the Barton County Commission for 2025."
Schlessiger, who was chairperson pro tem last year, will replace Barb Esfeld as chairperson. Commissioner Duane Reif handcrafted a custom gavel for Schlessiger in her new role. He was selected to fill Schlessiger's old position of chairman pro tem. The board also presented Esfeld with a gift for her tenure as chairperson. Hutchinson read from the plaque before presenting it to Esfeld.
"We extend our sincere gratitude to Commissioner Barb Esfeld for her outstanding leadership and dedication during her tenure as chairman," he said. "Commissioner Esfeld served with honor and distinction as chairman of the Barton County Commission from Jan. 16, 2024, through Jan. 13, 2025. Barb, in your own words, thank you helping make Barton County the best county."
Esfeld and Hutchinson, serving districts two and three in Barton County, respectively, won uncontested bids in November's general election. Donna Zimmerman, representing District 5, also remains on the board.