Long time Lake County Board member Bill Durkin announced his retirement, setting up a primary battle in this coming election. Durkin has served on the board representing district 8 for 12 years and on Thursday, said he will retire from the job effective April 18.

“When the city offered the buyout plan, it just made sense to retire,” he said. “It’s been a great experience to serve. I’m going to take a year off and enjoy life. I’m sure I’ll find something to do in the future.”

With the new map in place and the reduction to 19 from 21 seats, sitting County Board Member Dianne Hewitt is now in the 8th District. Both Hewitt and Steve Snarski of Waukegan have filed to run in the Democratic primary held June 28th. The winner will go on to the November 4th general election.

In the meantime, Lake County Board Chair Sandy Hart will make an appointment to fill the vacated seat. The appointee will serve the remainder of the term which is until December 4th. Chair Hart said she will begin reviewing applications. The board will vote on her pick.

Applicants must be a member of the Democratic party as Durkin is a Democratic, be at least 18 years old and reside in the 2nd County Board District.

Snarksi is a resident of the new 2nd district and stated he will file an application for the appointment.