Jeff Donecker submitted the following item about his filing for the Barton County Commission District 1.

My name is Jeff Donecker. I am excited to announce my candidacy for Commissioner of Barton County’s First District.

My wife, Megan, and I are lifelong residents of Barton County. We have raised our two children, Philip and JoAnna, in rural Claflin. For over 20 years, I have been part owner of Little Giant Fittings Co., Inc. in Great Bend. My wife has worked in the medical field for over 20 years. We are proud that Philip has returned from college and is currently working in Great Bend.

My public service includes: Serving as a volunteer firefighter on the Claflin Fire Department since 2005; a past member of the Claflin City Council; and I have coached many different sports over the years. I was a co-founder of the Little Oilers Youth Football program in 2011 and continue to serve as vice president of the Little Oilers Youth Football Committee. I served as the assistant coach of the Central Plains Junior High Football team from 2014-2018. From 2019 to the present, I am the head coach.                                                          

Being an alumni of Claflin High School, I believe that our youth returning to Barton County is vital for our future. It has brought me so much joy to see kids returning home and starting their own families. I would love to see our communities continue to grow. 

I have been considering this position for several years now. People in the First District need to know that I am energetic and understand the issues we face. I am passionate about future opportunities. I am excited to advocate for the district and county to help facilitate growth.