A second candidate has announced his intention to run for the office of Cole County Western District commissioner.
Gary Bemboom said Wednesday that he will run as a Republican.
In his campaign announcement, Bemboom said he wants to make sure the needs of towns outside Jefferson City are addressed.
"I want to also work with the Jefferson City Council and the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce to ensure Cole County is a safe place to live, work and own a business," Bemboom said.
Bemboom believes his years as a small businessman would help him to address how the county spends its funds.
"I live in Centertown, and I own a small cow/calf operation along with owning Convenient Heating and Cooling," he said. "I have owned Beeline Convenience Stores, but my business partner and I are selling them. This in turn will free me up to be a full-time commissioner for Cole County."
Kris Scheperle, also a Republican, currently serves as Western District commissioner. Scheperle has not announced whether he will seek re-election.
Local CPA Harry Otto announced in November he is running for the commissioner's seat as a Republican.
Other Cole County offices up for election in 2020 include Eastern District commissioner, sheriff, assessor, public administrator and treasurer.
There will also be an election for the circuit judge seat currently held by Presiding Judge Pat Joyce, who is retiring, as well as the newly created second associate circuit judge position. The circuit judge position currently held by Judge Dan Green is also up for re-election.
Filing for countywide offices in 2020 officially opens Feb. 25 and ends March 31. The primary election will be Aug. 4, and the general election will be Nov. 3.