By Howard Packowitz

NORMAL – A retired judge, who served the past 13 years on the McLean County Board, said Thursday it’s time for someone with fresh perspectives to replace him.

William Caisley announced he will not run for a fifth term representing District 4, which includes west Normal.

Caisley is endorsing Adelita Cruz, who’s a manager at State Farm, in the 2020 election.

Caisley said now’s a good time to leave because the jail addition is done, and the board recently hired a new administrator. However, he was worried about who might follow him.

“I found several that I thought would be well qualified, but they weren’t interested. It takes somebody who demonstrates an interest in the job, and I think she demonstrates an interest in the job. She wants to do it,” Caisley said.

Cruz, who’s a Republican, said she’s particularly interested in mental health and veterans affairs. Her husband Brandon is a Marine Corps Vet and served in Iraq.

“I don’t think I would say that we need to divide ourselves that strongly, saying Republican or Democrat,” said Cruz.

“I am a citizen who has the opportunity to improve the lives of everyone. So, I found a great support team here than can help me achieve that goal,” Cruz added.

The Cruz family moved to the Twin-Cities from Colorado in 2015.

Caisley, who’s 79, is concluding almost five decades of public service, including 32 years as a circuit judge.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]