Clague recommended to fill Sheriff's position

By Norm Winick

The Zephyr, Galesburg

Votes were cast by 51 of the 57 Knox County Democratic Precinct Committeeman at the party's candlelight caucus Thursday evening August 23rd. Despite sweltering heat and illumination provided only by candles and a few flashlights at the Galesburg Labor Temple, committeemen listened to nine aspirants seeking the appointment as Knox County Sheriff. Jerry Friend, Randy Storm, Scott Swanson, Elaine Sturgeon, William Petentler, Rick Pecsi, Keith Rickard, Dan Johnson and David Clague presented their qualifications and answered a wide range of questions. The caucus members voted secretly by Instant Runoff Voting and each of the candidates received some first place votes. After the runoffs were tabulated, David Clague emerged as the recommendation of the caucus for the position. Clague recently retired as a Lieutenant after 33 years with the Galesburg Police Department.

The recommendation of the Knox County Democratic Central Committee has been forwarded to Knox County Clerk Scott Erickson and County Board Chair Allen Pickrel so that Clague's name may be placed in nomination at Wednesday's regular County Board meeting.

The caucus of committeemen from County Board District Three voted to recommend Tim Hasten, 388 Locust St., Galesburg, to the vacant position of County Board member from that District. Barbara Foster also presented her qualifications to the caucus.

8/24/07