The passing of Commissioner Frank Staudenmeier left Schuylkill County with some big shoes to fill.

And they must be filled in a timely manner, even as the county mourns. Schuylkill County President Judge William E. Baldwin explained the process during a press conference Monday.

“Although Frank is irreplaceable, the county’s business must go on,” Baldwin said. “Frank Staudenmeier was a man of class and grace, a true gentleman who treated everyone with kindness and respect — I’ll miss him as a colleague, and I’ll miss him as a friend.”

Staudenmeier also was someone who could handle the heavy responsibilities of the job, while always seeking to do what was best for the people of the county, Baldwin said.

Baldwin explained that Fourth Class County Code provides that when a vacancy occurs in the office of County Commissioner, the Court of Common Pleas must appoint someone. As Staudenmeier was a Republican, the new appointee must also be a Republican, and the appointment will be for the balance of the unexpired term.

According to Supreme Court rule, the court shall receive applications from candidates. They can be mailed to Judge Baldwin, 401 North Second Street, Pottsville PA 17901.

“The resumes must include contact information and educational background, as well as work, management and government experience,” Baldwin said. “The county business is a large enterprise with many agencies that report to the Commissioners.”

Selection will be for a vote of Schuylkill County’s five judges. A judges meeting is scheduled for April 1. Once a selection is made, the court will enter an order, and the person would take an oath of office, Baldwin said.

Choosing a candidate is not done by a political party. Although a party may want to endorse a certain candidate, the court doesn’t consider that recommendation.

“We will be in compliance with the directives of the Supreme Court,” Baldwin said. “The court wants candidates to know — the court will not be influenced and will consider all applicants.”