Sellars to resign constable’s job

Constable Tony Sellars will resign this month to take a new law enforcement position downstate.

Sellars, who serves Donley County Precincts 3&4, presented a letter to county officials in July stating his intention to resign effective August 15 at 11:59 p.m.

“I’ve taken a job that pays more, there’s better employment for me and my wife, and more educational opportunities for my daughter,” Sellars said. “I regret that people will have to do a write-in candidacy and that I won’t be able to fulfill my term; but family comes first.”

County Judge Jack Hall said the commissioners’ court does not plan to appoint a replacement for Sellars but will rather let the people choose a replacement at the ballot box.

A former county deputy, Sellars has served as constable since last May when he was appointed following the resignation of former constable Mike Wallendorff.

Sellars filed to run for a full term in office as a Democrat and defeated challenger Ralph Graves during the March primary. County Democratic Chair Jean Taylor could not be reached by phone Tuesday afternoon for comment.

The constable said he will take fond memories of Donley County with him when he leaves for his new position at a police department on the coast.

“It’s been an honor and a pleasure to serve the people of Donley County and particularly Precincts 3&4,” Sellars said. “I’ve got memories I’ll never forget, and I’ve made lifelong friends here.”

Sellars expressed his appreciation to Justice of the Peace Ann Kennedy for working with him and making his job pleasant and particularly thanked Sheriff Butch Blackburn and Chief Deputy Randy Bond.

“I started out as a rookie, and they trained me to be the officer I am today,” Sellars said.

The deadline for write-in candidates for this November’s General Election is August 26 in the county clerk’s office.