A former McLean County Board chair whose term on the board was not set to end for another two years has resigned her position.
Catherine Metsker, a Republican representing the northern party of the county in District 1, submitted a resignation letter to the county on Wednesday morning. She confirmed her resignation to WGLT and said it was immediate, but did not give a specific reason.
Metsker spent more than 10 years on the county board and was elected as chair in Sept. 2023, an appointment that followed former chair and longtime member John McIntyre's health-related resignation.
Metsker's term as chair ended on Monday when Democrats assumed the majority and elected Elizabeth Johnston chair.
Metsker's most recent committee appointments included land use and transportation, liquor control commission and executive and justice committees, the latter of which she was the vice chair. Her time as board chair included a significant restructuring of the county's Behavioral Health Coordinating Council, which transitioned to an independent advisory board earlier this fall.
Metsker's term on the county board was not set to end until late 2026.
"Service to McLean County has always been a priority. But after much contemplation, I have decided my time on the McLean County Board will end," she said in an email obtained by WGLT. "Therefore, effective immediately, I am resigning from the McLean County Board."
Johnston said she became aware of Metsker's resignation Wednesday morning and did not have further information on the specifics.
The county board, she said, is now moving to fill the open seat in District 1 before its next full meeting in January.
Applications are open and will remain open until Jan. 9. The person appointed to fill the seat must be a Republican and will serve alongside fellow District 1 member and Republican Adam Reeves.
Metsker remains the township supervisor of White Oak Township in Carlock.
