(KNZA)--1st District Brown County Commissioner Rich Lehmkuhl has announced he plans to tender his resignation following completion of the 2026 budget process, and no later than October 1st.

Lehmkuhl, a Hiawatha Republican, informed his fellow commissioners of his decision at the end of their September 2nd meeting.

He said the decision comes following a lot of prayer and concern.

Lehmkuhl said right now his focus needs to be on his church. He serves as pastor of the Eternal Hope Worship Center, in Hiawatha.

Lehmkuhl has served on the Commission since January 2019.

Under state statue, he must submit his letter of resignation to the Governor and a copy to the county election officer.

Since Lehmkuhl is a Republican, the Brown County Republican party chairman must call a convention of the precinct committee members of the 1st District to elect someone to fill his unexpired term. The convention must be held within 21 days of receiving the notice of vacancy.

The name of the selected individual would then be forwarded to the Governor, who will make the official appointment.