MARION, Ill. (WJPF) – Williamson County Circuit Clerk Justin Maze has announced he will leave office before the end of his term.
Maze says the resignation is due to an upcoming military deployment. He is expected to step down by July 1st.
Justin Maze was appointed circuit clerk in 2021 after the resignation of Austin Crabb following her arrest for DUI.
Justin Maze, a Republican, was the only person of either political party to run in this year’s primary.
On Thursday, Maze posted the following statement on his personal Facebook page:
“Dear Voters of Williamson County,
I have come to a decision that was not an easy one to make. However, it is a decision made in the best interest of the voters and taxpayers of Williamson County. Due to an upcoming deployment, during which I will be overseas for more than a year, I have decided to step down as your Williamson County Circuit Clerk.
As a public servant, my first obligation is to uphold my oath to the United States. This commitment to serve and protect our nation is a duty I hold in the highest regard. I have always believed in the importance of honoring one’s promises and responsibilities. The call to serve my country is one that I must answer, and I need to live up to that obligation. Due to the timing of my deployment and the election, I believe the right thing to do in the best interest of the County is to not seek re-election. It is with a heavy heart that I make this decision, but I am confident it is the right one for the continued success and stability of our community.
It has been an honor to serve over the past three and a half years. Together, we have made significant progress in upgrading the office. I must acknowledge that my staff has been exceptional and has become like family to me. With this decision, I will assist in the transition period before my deployment, ensuring the continuity of the office in my absence.
It has been a privilege to work alongside many honorable individuals, such as Amanda Barnes, Ashley Gott, Jim Marlo, Tim Atkisson, Judge Green, Judge Goffinet, Judge Gill, Judge Sanders, Judge Schafer, and Judge Gott.
I would like to give my full support to Jim Marlo as your Williamson County Commissioner and Dave McReynolds as your next Williamson County Coroner. Again, I want to thank everyone in Williamson County for their support. I look forward to serving the county when I return from deployment, either within the same capacity or another.
Justin Maze”