Jasper Mayor Dean Vonderheide has announced he will step down from his full-time role as mayor, effective March 31, 2026.
Vonderheide has served as mayor since 2018, first being selected through a caucus before winning election to a full term in 2019. While his original plan was to retire at the end of 2023, he chose to continue serving beyond that date due to ongoing challenges facing the city and a strong sense of responsibility to the community.
According to Vonderheide, several factors influenced his decision to extend his service, including the COVID-19 pandemic, economic uncertainty, workforce retirements, rising medical costs, competitive hiring conditions, and the need to address aging infrastructure. He stated those challenges required experienced leadership and long-term commitment.
Vonderheide said his decision to step down now comes as he turns his focus toward his health and spending more time with family. He also expressed gratitude for the support he has received from family, medical professionals, friends, and colleagues throughout his time in office.
Despite stepping away from his full-time role, Vonderheide indicated he plans to remain involved in the community and continue contributing to the future of Jasper and Dubois County.
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