WESTPHALIA — Long time Osage County Public Administrator Paul Stratman announced his resignation from office Thursday, Feb. 23, at the Osage County Republican Lincoln Day Banquet at the Lion’s Club Hall in Westphalia.

“It’s time for me to step down from that role,” he said. “It’s been a very challenging job, but very beneficial.” He did not stipulate a date for that resignation to take effect.

Stratman will not seek reelection, meaning his term will expire on Dec. 31.

He did, however, tell the crowd what he wants next. “I plan to run for [the Missouri State House of Representatives from this district] in 2024,” he said. “It will be a challenge, but one I will take.”

Stratman was first elected to the Public Administrator’s office in 2000. He won reelection for a sixth time in 2020.