Sources confirmed to 41 Action News Monday that Jackson County Executive Mike Sanders is planning to resign his post, effective Dec. 31.
Sanders said in a statement he will return to practicing law.
Sanders launched his first term as executive in 2007 before being re-elected in 2010 and most recently in 2014.
Sanders released a statement on his resignation on Tuesday. It reads in full:
"It is with a little bit of gladness and a little bit of sadness that I am announcing my resignation as Jackson County, effective December 31, 2015.
After 13 years in public life, I simply feel the time is right for me to return to the practice of law, and to be able to spend more and better time with my family – my wife, Georgia, and our two young, and very fast-growing sons, John and Patrick.
And, frankly, we thought, what better time than Christmas to start the new journey.
Know that I have very much appreciated and enjoyed the opportunity to serve the people of Jackson County. It has been incredibly challenging, stimulating and, ultimately, very rewarding to be able to work in concert with some excellent legislators and management professionals to rebuild the political, financial and administrative infrastructure of this great county. With the blessings and support of Jackson County’s 1,500 loyal employees, we have accomplished almost everything I dreamed about and committed myself to when I first took office in 2007. Although I will miss the comradery and the give and take of politics, it is gratifying to leave knowing that, by working together, we have been able to affect many positive changes and improvements that will benefit the taxpayers of Jackson County for many years to come.
The fact is, as I head home today to hang the old stockings with care, I can do so knowing that I am leaving Jackson County in good financial shape and in very capable hands.
Thank you, and Merry Christmas to all!"
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