After the close of Tuesday’s Barton County Commission agenda meeting, the commission was scheduled to meet with County Counselor Patrick Hoffman to review the qualifications for his replacement. He made the following statement toward the end of the agenda meeting.

“We do have a study session item today about the county counselor position. That’s going to be a discussion about finding a replacement for your county counselor in 2026.

“I’ve accepted a different position with local government that’s going to require my full attention and so I’m no longer going to be able to serve here. I’m sure at some point I will deliver a big embarrassing speech to you guys about how much it means to me to have worked for Barton County. It’s very difficult. I’m excited about my new opportunity, but also, Barton County has been crucial for my career growth and also a huge part of my life for the last seven years.

“It’s very difficult to leave a place where I have not just colleagues, but so many friends. I just wanted to say that publicly, because it’s going to be very important to reach out and find the right person to fill this role. And I just want to make sure everyone in the public is aware of what’s going on.

“Thank you all for everything.”