Lawrence County Republican Party announces process to fill Oolitic Town Council vacancy

BEDFORD Following the resignation of Oolitic Town Councilman Johnny Bob Dillon, the Lawrence County Republican Party has announced the process that will be used to fill the vacancy on the Oolitic Town Council.

Because Dillon was elected as a Republican, Indiana law provides that the Republican Party is responsible for selecting a qualified individual to serve the remainder of his term, which expires on December 31, 2027.

Under most circumstances, vacancies in partisan elected offices are filled through a caucus of the precinct committeemen who represent the area from which the officeholder was elected. However, because the Town of Oolitic lies entirely within a single voting precinct, Indiana law requires the vacancy to be filled by appointment of the Lawrence County Republican Chairman rather than by caucus.

To promote a transparent and representative selection process, Lawrence County Republican Party Chairman Chase Cummings established an interview committee to review applicants and make a recommendation regarding the appointment.

Individuals interested in serving on the Oolitic Town Council are encouraged to submit a letter of interest by email to lawcogop@gmail.com no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, July 31. Applicants will receive a brief questionnaire and will be scheduled for an interview with the committee.

Interviews are scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, August 3. Following the interviews, the committee will submit its recommendation to Lawrence County Republican Chairman Chase Cummings, who will make the official appointment. The process is expected to conclude within the 30-day timeframe required by Indiana law.

Johnny Bob Dillon served the residents of Oolitic for six and a half years as a member of the Town Council. The Lawrence County Republican Party extends its appreciation for his dedicated public service and wishes him the very best in his future endeavors.

The party looks forward to selecting a qualified individual who will provide responsible and effective leadership for the citizens of Oolitic.