Former undersheriff running for county commission.

Jody Hartley

Former undersheriff running for county commission.

By Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief.

HAMLIN TOWNSHIP — Jody Hartley retired from the Mason County Sheriff’s Office in May 2018. He spent his last six years of his 32-year law enforcement serving as the undersheriff. Now, he’s ready for a new role, county commissioner. Hartley recently filed paperwork with the Mason County Clerk’s office to run as a Republican candidate for the third commissioner district seat, held currently by Republican Chuck Lange. Lange has also filed to run.

The nominee will be decided during the August 4 Primary Election.

“I see this as not running against anyone but rather running for a position,” Hartley said. “Chuck has done a good job but I would like the opportunity to serve.” The third district represents Hamlin and Grant townships. Hartley recently moved back to Hamlin Township, where he grew up, and built a home there. He and his wife, Linda, had previously lived in the City of Ludington.

“I understand the job description of a county commissioner,” Hartley aid. “The county commission sets policy for the county administrators; it has oversight of the budget; it writes the budget; it can enact ordinances. But, there are other things I believe I can do as a county commissioner. I want to be able to represent the constituents in Hamlin and Grant townships and be a voice for them.

“A good leader will put others first. In fact, the higher up the leadership ladder you go, the less rights you have. That is why I don’t do this thing lightly, because it’s hard work. A good leader brings order out of chaos, protection to his people and the results are blessings on his community. I will have more in the future, obviously. My prayer is that I can serve you in this capacity.”

Hartley said he believes firmly in the first and second amendments of the U.S. Constitution. Approving the recent Second Amendment sanctuary county resolution would have been an easy decision for him, he said.

Hartley said his decision to run for commission was made after much prayer.

“I have a deep passion for God and our freedoms He has given us in this great country. I am passionate about our Constitution and the freedoms it also gives us.”

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