Vacancy delayed to May 21

With the passing of Sweetwater County Commissioner Don Van Matre Thursday morning, the county commissioners will need to declare his position vacant.

However, the commissioners decided to wait until their May 21 meeting to make that declaration.

Chairman Wally Johnson said he wanted to give the Sweetwater County Republicans as much time as possible to find qualified candidates for the remainder of Van Matre’s term.

“It’s a big responsibility,” he said.

According to John Deleon, deputy Sweetwater County attorney, the commissioners have 20 days to declare a vacancy on the board. Because Van Matr...