By Sterling McGinn
Columbus Township Clerk Jeff Anderson has decided to step down from his position and his resignation was accepted at a special meeting of the board held on Monday, March 2.
Anderson, who recently announced he has health concerns, has been passionate about keeping Columbus Township going. He planned to resign at the end of 2025, but agreed to stay longer because he is concerned his township may need to merge with another Luce County township if a new clerk couldn’t be found.
Deputy Don Leech also agreed to stay past the end of 2025. But now Anderson feels he needs to step down.
His resignation will take effect at the end of business on Tuesday, March 10, the day of the regular monthly meeting. The board thanked Anderson for his service.
“The township is presented with multiple challenges as a result of Jeff’s decision,” said Township Supervisor Roger Auble. “No one wants to see Columbus Township be absorbed by another township in the county.”
The clerk’s job is crucial in the day-to-day operations of the township. They also conduct the elections, and there will be three this year. Auble said there may be a precinct change issue for the May election if a replacement is not found in time.
Columbus resident Terry Nelson attended the special meeting and is interested in becoming the next clerk. Nelson noted that he had heard conversations in the community about merging with another townships.
“You hate to lose your identity—this is a nice comfortable setting,” Nelson said.
Though there was no decision made on an appointment, Anderson and Leech planned to meet with Nelson to show him some of the duties before the next meeting. They also agreed to help train the next clerk when he or she is appointed.
