Paul Vogelsong being sworn in by County Judge Mike Halpin.
Custer County: Now Under New Management
Commissioners Vogelsong and Epp Sworn In 01/14/25
New Commissioners with the honorable Judge Halpin.
by Fred Hernandez
In a simple ceremony at Lange Hall on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 10 o’clock in the morning, County Judge Mike Halpin presided over the official swearing-in of the commissioners elected in the November 2024 Election.
First up was Lucas Epp who had already been serving as commissioner, having won the seat following the recall of a former commissioner. After swearing in, Commissioner Epp made a few short remarks to remind his supporters that he is a working man who dresses simply and works “in the trenches” to solve problems. He received a warm applause from the audience of approximately fifty county residents.
Paul Vogelsong was next and after swearing in he also spoke briefly to assure his supporters that having sworn to uphold the U.S. Constitution many times in his career, he has every intention of doing so as Commissioner Vogelsong. He also received a warm round of applause.
Among the dignitaries who were present were County Commissioner Bill Canda, Sheriff Rich Smith, Coroner Brad Baltzly, County IT and interim Finance Director Vernon Roth and county business owners and residents. The quick ceremony was over in twenty minutes and the attendees were treated to refreshments of fruit, cake and coffee. The County welcomes the new team of commissioners and sincerely wishes them all the best in their work for the community. Congratulations!