FAIRBORN — Greene County Commissioner Rick Perales said last week that he would not be seeking another term on the board.

Perales made the announcement at a “First Thursday” gathering in Fairborn. Many elected officials were present at the monthly get-together. Perales spoke about not running again when his term ends in 2024 and whom he would like to see his successor be — good friend and fellow elected official — Beavercreek Mayor Bob Stone.

Perales, who has served more than 20 years as an elected official, said that although he’s proud of his accomplishments at the state and local level, “it’s time to do something else.”

“I am very appreciative of my colleagues and those who have supported me along the way,” Perales said. “My passion has always been to support our vets. Especially those who were physically or mentally injured while serving. I expect when I’m done with my commissioner position at the end of 2024, you’ll find me in some capacity working with vets.”

Stone said he is fine with the new direction his career may be taking after he realized Perales was serious about suggesting Stone run next year. Stone said that his prior 40-year career as a home inspector — with his own business — has prepared him for dealing with homeowners and the public.

“I don’t go in with an agenda,” Stone said. “I enjoy local politics and bringing people together to accomplish what they deserve.” Stone has served as a township trustee, a vice-mayor, a council member, and mayor the past eight years.

“I look forward to a new challenge,” he said.

Xenia Mayor Sarah Mays said she plans to run for commission and believes she could bring a different perspective to the board if she is elected.

“I’ve been heavily involved in the community for a number of years and I’m very passionate about advocating strongly for my community,” said Mays, who sits on the board of directors for the Clark State Foundation, board of directors for One Bistro, volunteers for Impact Xenia, and is the current vice-president of the Greater Dayton Area Mayors and Managers (which covers Montgomery, Greene, and Miami counties). Time spent on council or as mayor as taken up the last 10 years of her life.

Beavercreek Township Trustee Tom Kretz has also disclosed his plan to run for the commissioner’s seat as well.

Reach Karen Rase at 937-502-4534.