Bowen Defeats Isgriggs in Administrator’s Race

Franklin County Public Administrator candidate Julie Bowen was the winner over William Isgriggs in Tuesday’s Republican primary.

Bowen, 50, of the Union area, received 63 percent of the votes to defeat Isgriggs, 62, Union. She received 7,667 votes to Isgriggs’ 4,487 votes.

Bowen will square off against Democratic candidate Mary Jo Straatmann in the November general election.

The current public administrator, Carol Eckelkamp, a Democrat, did not seek re-election. She served five four-year terms as administrator.

“It was a very exciting evening watching the totals come in from each precinct,” Bowen said. “My family was there to cheer me on throughout the night. It was a great feeling to know I had the support of my family, and I am honored to have the support of so many in Franklin County.”

A public administrator’s primary role is caring for individuals who are unable to care for themselves.

The administrator is appointed by probate court to serve more than 100 people annually, acting as their guardian or conservator and ensuring they receive proper placement in nursing homes or residential care facilities. The public administrator also files for medical insurance on behalf of the individuals and plans burials and estate auctions.

“If elected, I will utilize every resource available to ensure each person is treated with the utmost respect and care they deserve to improve their quality of life,” Bowen added. “If I have the opportunity to be Franklin County’s next public administrator, I will strive to end each day knowing I have made a positive difference in the lives of the people I represent.”

She is the senior branch office administrator for Edward Jones in Union. She has been with the company for 16 years.

Bowen has not held political office. She is a member of First Christian Church in Union, and a member of the Washington Federated Republican Women’s Club.

She also has raised two children.

Bowen is a Union High School graduate who attended classes at East Central College.