The mayor of Prospect is the 10th Republican candidate for Butler County commissioner.

James Butler, 55, is seeking one of two GOP nominations in the May 19 primary.

Butler said his experience in government and the private sector make him qualified for the post.

“I've been involved in local government since 2002,” Butler said.

As mayor, Butler has dealt with budgets, public safety and state agencies, including the Department of Environmental Protection and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Butler, who works for ScottsMiracle-Gro, has overseen large- scale projects, keeping them within budget and on schedule.

As commissioner, he would focus on such needs as infrastructure, public safety and economic growth.

Butler said he would look to the future while preserving agricultural resources.

He said the commissioners need to be leaders.

“I think there's great opportunity out there for the commissioners to exhibit leadership,” Butler said.

He said that leadership has been lacking, referring to a request last year for the commissioners to host a meeting about a proposed municipal authority involving multiple municipalities in the Prospect area.

The county declined.

“I felt that was a missed opportunity,” Butler said.

He said the commissioners need to have a pulse on what's happening throughout the county.

“They can be more aware of what's going on countywide,” Butler said.

He is undaunted by having to compete against nine other candidates for the Republican nominations.

“I think it's a good thing,” Butler said.

According to Butler, he would work with anyone who is elected commissioner.

“I believe I have the temperament to do that,” he said.

Butler is a member of the Rotary Club of Portersville-Prospect.

He has an associate degree in visual communications from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and is a 1977 graduate of Hempfield High School.

Butler lives in the borough with his wife, Angela.

The other Republican candidates are Kim Geyer, Jim Keffalas, Mark Lux, Lisa Metcalfe, Bob O'Neill, Leslie Osche, Jeff Smith, Larry Thompson and Justin Trainor.

Incumbents Bill McCarrier and Dale Pinkerton are not seeking re-election.

Four Democrats are vying for their party's nominations. Joining incumbent Commissioner Jim Eckstein are Kevin Boozel, Jerry Johnston and Dave Johnston.