Republican George Green announced Tuesday that he plans to challenge incumbent Republican Bob Elmore for a spot on the Monroe County Board of Commissioners. 

“My vision is to serve all of Monroe County, and I will work to ‘Keep Monroe County Great,’” Green, 67, said in a press release. “I will always be there, available and accountable to the taxpayers of Monroe County.” 

A rural Maeystown resident, Green retired as the general manager of operations at Unimin Corporation, an industrial mineral production company with locations throughout North America.

Green currently works as a buyer’s agent with the real estate agency of Tammy Mitchell Hines & Co.   

He also owns his family’s farm. 

Green grew up on that farm in Fayette County, but moved to Monroe County after meeting his wife and Monroe County native, Linda, in college. 

He has a bachelor’s from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and a Master of Business Administration from Webster University.

“I am proficient in strategic planning, business planning and development, budgeting, capital planning and labor relations,” Green said. “I have been successful in leading company/union labor negotiations, achieving multi-year contracts in 40 operating locations nationwide.”  

Green said he values “service above self,” as seen in his volunteer efforts. 

He serves on the Monroe County YMCA Board of Directors, is a member of the Waterloo Rotary Club, sits on the St. Mary Catholic Church in Valmeyer’s finance council and belongs to the Knights of Columbus through that church. 

He also serves as vice president of the Maeystown Fire Department and is a member of the Maeystown Preservation Society. 

Green will run against Elmore in the primary election on March 17, with the winner moving on to the Nov. 3 general election. 

Elmore, 81, of Waterloo, announced in June he would be seeking a second term. 

If elected, Green said he would “work to promote economic development, ensure that technological advances continue and maintain a working transparency.”

“I am committed to fully support law enforcement to keep Monroe County a safe and prosperous place to live and raise our families,” he added. 

In addition to his wife, Green’s family includes a son, daughter and four grandchildren. 

He said he enjoys spending time with his family and being involved in the community. 

“I can think of no greater honor than to be a servant of the community of Monroe County,” Green said. “I will use all of my business experience and a deep-rooted love of this county to ensure we Keep Monroe County Great.” 

Petition circulation for candidates in 2020 began Sept. 3. Candidacy paperwork may be filed at the courthouse from Nov. 25 through Dec. 2. 

In addition to Elmore’s seat, county offices up for election in 2020 include, coroner, state’s attorney and circuit clerk.

Those offices are currently held by Bob Hill, Chris Hitzemann and Lisa Fallon, respectively.