Next chapter: Mark Andersen to retire as Bay County supervisor of elections after 23 years

PANAMA CITY − For Mark Andersen, it's a bittersweet feeling knowing he soon will step into the next chapter of his life.

As Bay County supervisor of elections, Andersen said Tuesday that he plans to officially retire June 6. The 64-year-old has held the position since he was first elected in 2001.

A supervisor of elections is an elected position that serves four year terms.

"I just believe in always doing the right thing and making sure things happen the way they're supposed to happen," Andersen said. "It's not something you can run sitting in the seat of your chair. You have to be involved.

"My cell phone number has been on the front door every single day of my elected office. I'm not sure any other elected official has ever done that in Bay County. ... I answer it, and I think that's the difference. ... You need to talk to people and find out what their concerns are. That's how I've always been."

Nina Ward, deputy supervisor of elections in Bay County, said Andersen was a great leader who always was passionate about the local elections process.

"He left a legacy not only in Bay County, but he put his mark on elections in the state of Florida," Ward said. "He was very innovative. He was the first in the state to accomplish a lot, like 100% automation audits. ... We are sad to see him go for sure. He definitely loved his job."

Ward, who has worked under Andersen for 13 years, plans to run as his replacement. As of Tuesday, she was the only qualified candidate in the race.

Those interested in running for the position of Bay County supervisor of elections have until June 14 to qualify. The election will be held either alongside the Republican Primary on Aug. 20, or alongside the General Election on Nov. 5.

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If only Republicans qualify, it will be held Aug. 20. If candidates from a different political party qualify, it will be held Nov. 5.

With retirement around the corner, Andersen said he plans to move back to Michigan, where he is originally from, and do a lot more fishing.

"I'm a strong-willed person," he said. "I spent 10 years in the Navy SEAL teams. This office is not a good place for a shy person. It's a very good place for a person who understands that you don't get to do things twice."

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Mark Andersen to retire as Bay County supervisor of elections