Jesse McWilliams has announced his intent to seek re-election for the Butler County Commission.

McWilliams, who will be running as a Democrat, is seeking the District 2 seat. He has held the seat for 12 years and has served as the commission chairman since 2004.

McWilliams said bringing jobs to the county would continue to be a priority if he is re-elected.

“I’ve been involved with industrial growth during the past 12 years, and I have a proven record of helping bring jobs to the county,” he said. “I’ve been involved in bringing Hysco America, Hwashin America and Coastal Forest Products to the county and my involvement with those companies has given me valuable experience in economic development.”

McWilliams said he would also seek funding to enable the Butler County Sheriff’s Office to begin 24-hour patrols, while also seeking additional funds to pave the county’s “farm-to-market” roads.

“I believe the experience I have gained in the last 12 years makes me the best qualified candidate in my district to get these things done,” McWilliams said.

McWilliams serves on the Butler County Commission for Economic Development and is an ex-officio member of the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce. He is also a member of First Baptist Church, the Butler County Optimist Club and the Lions Club.

McWilliams has owned and operated Real Pit Bar-B-Q since 1988. He and his wife, Linda, have two children and three grandchildren.