Clay County elected officials were sworn into office at a special Clay County Commission meeting that opened with remarks by Commissioner Jerry Nolte and closed with a reception; the meeting included the administration of oaths to the county assessor, sheriff and four county commissioners.

The ceremony reaffirmed the officials’ commitments as they begin new four-year terms and included brief remarks from each official. Commission President Jerry Nolte opened by highlighting recent county accomplishments, saying the commission had “successfully administered a $48,000,000 plus, ARPA budget,” and citing a freeze on assessed values for senior citizens and efforts to hold down property taxes.

Tracy Baldwin, county assessor, was the first official sworn in; Judge Tim Fluke administered the oath. Baldwin thanked family, county staff and fellow elected officials and said she would serve “with the passion, integrity, transparency, and common sense.”

William “Will” Aiken was sworn in as Clay County sheriff, also by Judge Tim Fluke. Aiken said he has taken an oath nine times during his 30 years of public service and that the sheriff’s office includes “220 plus members of our team.” He said he ran unopposed and pledged to continue serving the community, thanking his wife for support.

Joanne Lawson was sworn in as Eastern at-large commissioner by former Presiding Commissioner Pam Mason. Lawson thanked her family and county staff and said she has made decisions “based on what is best for Clay County,” pledging to continue in that manner for the next four years.

Megan Nicole Thompson took the oath for Eastern commissioner, administered by Judge Dan White. Thompson thanked family and supporters and pledged to serve “with integrity, responsibility, and doing the right thing.”

Jason Henry Whittington was sworn in as Western at-large commissioner by Kearny Mayor Randy Pogue. Whittington thanked attendees and county staff and said he looks forward to serving another term; he noted disappointment when races are uncontested because he values electoral competition.

John Carpenter was sworn in as Western commissioner by Judge Tim Fluke. Carpenter thanked county staff, singled out longtime county employees for recognition, and urged that 2025 be a strong year for the county.

Remarks during the ceremony repeatedly praised county staff and the county’s collaborative working relationships. Commissioner Nolte framed the event as more than ceremonial, calling it “a reaffirmation of our democratic republic” and saying the returning officials are “an integral part” of future county work.

The commission closed the special meeting with an invitation to a reception in the foyer and then adjourned. No formal votes or legislative actions were recorded during the ceremony.