Two vie for Eastern District Commissioner seat

Oct. 31--A former officeholder will face off with a newcomer for Buchanan County's Eastern District Commissioner.

Scott Burnham beat out incumbent Dan Hausman to earn the Republican nomination in the primary. Burnham now will face Democrat Tom Archdekin on Nov. 8.

Archdekin held the position of Eastern District Commissioner from 1990 to 2004. During that tenure, he was involved in building a significant number of county bridges and played a part in economic development projects including the Shoppes at North Village, Ag Expo Center and the Eastowne Business Park.

"The (county) roads have been neglected for the last several years," Archdekin said. "They're going backwards every year. It's one of the things that prompted me to run (for office)."

Burnham, a local businessman, said he decided to run for public office because he's tired of what he sees as corruption and dishonesty in politics. During his campaign, he said he planned to focus on lowering expenses and increasing revenue.

The St. Joseph resident started his insurance career in 1984 right out of college. He worked for a family-owned insurance business for 28 years, becoming managing partner in 2002. A few years later, he and his partners sold the agency to CBIZ. Burnham went on to work for that company, running the Midwest property and casualty unit. He retired in 2011 but has continued doing consulting work since.

"That's my background," Burnham said of running successful businesses. "That's where I bring value."

If elected, Burnham said he will get right to work on budgetary issues. Both men said county roads and the budget need to be addressed.

Archdekin is a full-time Realtor and had a lengthy career as an insurance agent. His 14 years of experience as a former commissioner are an advantage, he said.

Burnham and Archdekin both credited their family as motivation to run.

"I just know that it's a job I know really well and there's so much to be done," Archdekin said. "I want to see the county and the city prosper and do well."

He grew up on the east side of the county. His two daughters and grandchildren live there now, too.

Burnham said his main drive is his three grandchildren.

"They live in this community and I want to make it better for them," he said.

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