Perry County District 1 Commissioner Jay Wengert has announced he will seek the office of presiding commissioner following last week’s announcement by Presiding Commissioner Mike Sauer that he will not seek a third term.
In a statement posted to Facebook, Wengert said that after “much thought and prayer,” he is entering the race and asked voters for their continued support. He cited his decade of experience on the Perry County Commission, saying the role has prepared him to lead the county in the years ahead.
Wengert, a lifelong resident of Perry County, was born in Brewer and graduated from Perryville High School before entering the workforce. He and his wife, Rachel, have been together 31 years and married 26. They have two grown children and three grandchildren. Wengert said family, faith and a strong work ethic are among the qualities that define the community he hopes to continue serving.
First elected in 2016, Wengert is currently serving his third term as District 1 commissioner. He said his time on the commission has shown him that the job involves far more than attending a couple of weekly meetings, noting the extensive board service and behind-the-scenes work required to keep county government functioning smoothly.
“We are in a really good spot for a third-class county compared to some of our neighbors,” Wengert said during a telephone interview Monday afternoon. He added that some surrounding counties are struggling, while Perry County has remained stable and positioned for continued growth.
Wengert described his candidacy as a natural progression. With Sauer stepping aside, he believes his 10 years of experience give him the background needed to provide continuity in leadership. He said the duties of presiding commissioner are not drastically different from what he has handled during his tenure, but the role carries added responsibility in guiding the commission’s direction.
Among his priorities, Wengert pointed to completing the Legion Lake project this year and addressing remaining operational issues at the Perry County Justice Center, including water softener and lighting concerns. He also emphasized continued attention to county roads, including efforts to hard-surface additional stretches and maintain existing infrastructure in cooperation with associate commissioners.
Employee support is another key focus. Wengert said ensuring county employees have competitive insurance and benefit packages is essential, particularly as rising costs make retention more challenging. “Taking care of our employees is a top priority,” he said, noting that a stable workforce is critical to delivering services residents rely on.
Wengert also highlighted improved working relationships between the county and the City of Perryville over the past decade. While acknowledging that disagreements occur, he said collaboration has strengthened, and both sides ultimately work toward what they believe is best for the community. Maintaining that cooperative spirit would remain a goal if he is elected presiding commissioner.
Reflecting on his time in office, Wengert cited the commission’s work during the COVID-19 pandemic and several major projects completed over the last 10 years as examples of steady governance. He said he has received encouragement from a range of supporters since announcing his candidacy, including former state officials and fellow county leaders.
In his Facebook announcement, Wengert said keeping Perry County “safe, fiscally responsible and affordable” requires strong leadership and teamwork. He pledged to continue building productive relationships at the local, state and federal levels to support infrastructure improvements, economic growth and essential services.
“It is a privilege to serve you,” Wengert wrote, asking for voters’ support as the campaign begins.
If elected, Wengert said he intends to build on what he describes as a decade of progress and guide the county with experience, collaboration and a continued commitment to the people of Perry County.
