The weekly meeting of the Kingfisher County commissioners will have not one, but two new voices later this year.

Ray Shimanek announced earlier this spring he wouldn’t seek re-election to his District 2 post.

Then at Monday’s meeting, Commission Chairman Heath Dobrovolny announced he would be resigning his District 3 seat effective April 19.

“My wife and I have both been offered opportunities that will benefit our family so that’s our motivation,” said Dobrovolny during the “new business” portion of the 15-minute meeting.

Dobrovolny has worked for Kingfisher County since October 2009 when he started as an equipment operator in District 3.

He was first elected county commissioner in 2018 and took his seat Jan. 1, 2019. He began his second term in January 2023.

He has been elected chairman of the three-commissioner board by his peers multiple times.

After the meeting, Dobrovolny provided the Times & Free Press with a letter to residents of Kingfisher County. In part, it reads: “During my tenure as commissioner, we faced extreme challenges that could not be foreseen, from historical floods, an oil and gas boom, a worldwide pandemic, all while maintaining 545 miles of roadways and continuing regular county business without disruption.

“I am incredibly proud of my colleagues and the entire county team as they faced these challenges, serving with excellence and professionalism despite many difficult circumstances.

“Thank you for the continued support and trust you have placed in me as your county commissioner. I am thankful for the opportunity to have served in Kingfisher County for the past 14 1/2 years.”

Kingfisher County Clerk Jeannie Boevers has worked alongside Dobrovolny for several years.

“First of all, the county is losing a great person,” she told the Times & Free Press. “But professionally, the county is losing a tremendous asset. His wide-ranging knowledge and professionalism have made him a great representative for Kingfisher County and he will be tough to replace.”

Dobrovolny’s replacement - at least in the short term - will be Anthony Schwarz, the District 3 first deputy.

Long-term, it will be up to Kingfisher County voters. When that happens is up in the air.

Gov. Kevin Stitt will have to call for a special election to fill the District 3 seat.

Dobrovolny said, by state statute, that’s supposed to be within 30 of his resignation, which would be in May.

However, state law also prohibits elections in May of even-numbered years.