FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP – It might seem a bit early, but Glenn Ekdahl is encouraging Franklin Township residents interesting in being part of the township government to file their nominating petitions as soon as possible.

Ekdahl, who is township supervisor, said he, Treasurer Judith Counts, and Clerk Mary Brunet, are not seeking re-election next year. Terms for each of the positions is four years.

The deadline to file nominating petitions is 4 p.m. April 19, at the township office located at 49850 U.S. 41 just north of Hancock. Successful candidates will be on the ballot in August for the primary election, and for the November general election. The terms of trustees Mary Sears and Don Dulong Jr. will also end in November.

Ekdahl said he’s been on the township board for about 25 years. He was appointed in 1991 as a trustee. In 2000, he was elected supervisor the first time. He was re-elected each time since.

Ekdahl said he decided now was a good time for him to leave government.

“I’m moving onto other projects,” he said.

Ekdahl said his time on the board was mostly enjoyable.

“There were a lot of challenges,” he said.

Some of those recent challenges were agreeing to terms for the sale of the former Quincy Smelter site to the National Park Service, building a new township hall in the former fire station, building a new fire station on Sunshine Road, and the completion of four sewer projects.

Now that those things have been completed, Ekdahl said the board of trustees can move onto other projects.

“The board can peruse more opportunities with recreation,” he said.

Brunet said she was appointed as clerk in 2005. She was first elected to the position in 2006.

It was just a coincidence that she, Ekdahl and Counts decided not to seek re-election this time, Brunet said.

“I feel like it’s a time to be through,” she said. “We’ve had a lot of projects we put in.”

Brunet said the job of clerk can be difficult, but she has enjoyed it.

“It’s a fun job,” she said.

She also is encouraging township residents to consider running for one of the open positions.

“It’s a way to get to know your township government,” she said. “This is where government starts.”

Counts said she was first elected as treasurer in 2004. She decided she wanted focus on other things in her life.

“I’m ready to have just one job and spend time with my family,” she said.

Counts said the job of treasurer could be challenging at times, but she appreciates being able to serve.

“I’ve certainly enjoyed my time as treasurer and getting to know the residents,” she said.

Ekdahl said he enjoyed working the board members, as well as the residents.

“It’s great community,” he said.