UPDATE: In an urgent development, Pawnee County Republicans have swiftly filled the vacated District 2 seat on the Board of County Commissioners. Brock Miller, a local businessman, was elected by a decisive vote of 15-6 during a convention held on Thursday evening at the Pawnee County Courthouse Lounge.
This election follows the resignation of Commissioner Phillip Hammeke, who announced his departure last week, effective September 12, 2023, due to relocating to Rush County. Hammeke had served as District 2 Commissioner since 2017 and had been re-elected in 2024, leaving an unexpired term until January 2029.
The urgent meeting was convened by Paula Carr, the current Republican Party chairperson, who acted within the 21-day window mandated by state law to select a replacement. The District 2 precinct includes various townships such as Ash Valley, Garfield, and Walnut, with a total of 20 committeemen and women participating in the vote.
Brock Miller, a fourth-generation Pawnee County farmer and graduate of Pawnee Heights High School, expressed his commitment to the county during his address. “My experience in business and community service has prepared me to help our county move forward with strength and diligence,” he stated, highlighting priorities such as job creation, fiscal responsibility, and sustainable development for local youth.
The Millers, who own the Stop-N-Go convenience store in Burdett, are deeply rooted in the community, employing over 20 local residents across various ventures, including cattle operations and downtown revitalization projects. Miller’s community service includes roles on the boards of Golden Valley Coop and the Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation, as well as leadership positions in the Pawnee County Economic Development and the Larned Area Chamber of Commerce.
This election is crucial for Pawnee County as it seeks to maintain effective governance amidst transitions. Following the convention, official notice of Miller’s election was forwarded to the governor for appointment, signaling a swift and organized response to the vacancy.
As Pawnee County looks to the future, all eyes will be on Brock Miller to see how his leadership shapes the community in the coming months. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
