Cedar County Commissioners Gain Valuable Insights at Annual Conference

By Melanie Chance

The El Dorado Sun

More than 300 county commissioners from across Missouri gathered at the County Commissioners Association of Missouri (CCAM) Annual Training, held February 26-28 at Margaritaville Lake Resort. The conference provided an opportunity for local officials to receive legislative updates, exchange ideas with fellow leaders, and explore new strategies for better serving their communities.

Cedar County’s Presiding Commissioner, Kenneth Thornton, Southern Commissioner Ted Anderson, and Northern Commissioner Ron Alumbaugh represented the county at the event.

The three-member commission oversees the county’s Road and Bridge Department, collaborates with other government entities, adopts annual budgets, and ensures compliance with statutory requirements.

A highlight of the conference was an address by Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, who shared important updates from his office and discussed ways his team can support counties like Cedar in addressing legal and policy challenges.

“The knowledge and networking gained at this conference are crucial to making informed decisions for our county,” said Commissioner Thornton. “Building strong connections with other counties allows us to share solutions and navigate challenges together.”

Throughout the training, commissioners attended various educational sessions, including discussions on Missouri tax laws, emergency management, cybersecurity risks, and public health partnerships.

One notable session focused on the impact of opioid settlement funds and updates on marijuana regulations in the workplace.

In addition to learning opportunities, the conference reinforced the importance of continuing education and professional development. Commissioners were required to complete mandatory training hours, ensuring they remained equipped with the latest tools and information to lead effectively.

For Cedar County residents, the commissioners meet every Monday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Commission Room #5 on the first floor of the courthouse. Meetings are open to the public, and the schedule is adjusted for holidays.

As county leaders return from the conference, they bring with them enhanced knowledge and a renewed commitment to serving the people of Cedar County.

Residents can visit the Cedar County Courthouse or contact the commission office for more information on county commission meetings and public involvement.

Stay updated on local cases by subscribing to The El Dorado Springs Sun. Please send all corrections or typos to sunpub@centurylink.net, including the article information in the subject line.

From left: Northern Commissioner Ron Alumbaugh, Southern Commissioner Ted Anderson, Presiding Commissioner Kenneth Thornton. Contributed photo.