Democrat Randy Ver-kamp is currently Presiding Commissioner of the County Commission with his position up for reelection in the August 3 Primary Election. At 60 years of age, Verkamp has been involved in the county for many years and hopes to continue in the tradition that he has set for himself. Verkamp has many key issues that he hopes to bring about if reelected and hopes to continue the success of the County during hard economic times.

“I was married to the late Paula Robinson for 33 wonderful years. Our daughter Amy is married and works for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and our son Ben is a third year law student at MU’s School of Law,” Verkamp said.

Verkamp educational background includes a degree in Engineering Management from Missouri S&T, a Masters Degree in Business Administration from Drury College, and Finance and Accounting Officers Basic Course at Fort Benjamin in Harrison, Ind.  Verkamp has been an active force, using his time and energy to improve the county in a positive way.

“I have three years as deputy finance and accounting officer at Fort Leonard Wood as an officer in the U.S. Army, real estate development business, cattle business, trucking business, and Phelps County Commissioner,” Verkamp explained. “I have served the wonderful people of our great county for over 20 years. We have made much progress in that time and are now in a position to see dramatic improvements in our economy. My education and experience will enable me to play a vital role in that important effort. Our success will create good jobs, attract students and retirees, and expand our economy to the benefit of all. Continuing to do a good job as your commissioner is a crucial part of that effort.”

If reelected, Verkamp wants to address key issues in the county including balanced budgets and increased economic opportunities.

“To continue keeping the county on firm financial footing is crucial. Our balanced budgets with no debt of the past years empower us to handle emergencies and seize opportunities as they come along. And the greatest opportunities ahead are in economic development; chances to expand our economy. I am very excited about the future of our wonderful county and plan to continue to work hard to make Phelps County an even better place to live.”

Verkamp hopes to build upon his years of experience and continue to grow this area and improve the economic position of the county.