Three candidates are competing in the Aug. 4 nonpartisan primary for Clay County presiding commissioner.

The candidates are incumbent Jerry Nolte, Jennifer Justus and Jay Swearingen.

Nolte, 70, of Gladstone, earned an associate degree from Maple Woods Community College and serves as Clay County presiding commissioner. He previously served as a Missouri state representative from 2004 to 2012 and has been involved with numerous community and regional organizations, including the Mid-America Regional Council Board, Kansas City TIF Commission, Rotary Club of Gladstone and Friends of Hospice.

Nolte said he is seeking another term to continue work already underway in the county. “I would like to complete my work for the people of Clay County,” stated Nolte.

Swearingen, 59, of North Kansas City, earned a Master of Public Administration degree and owns KC Biker Gear LLC. He previously served as a Missouri state representative and chamber of commerce director. “My experience and education in munici…