He plans to retire at end of 2018
By Robert Cloud
Waupaca County Sheriff Brad Hardel announced Monday, June 11 that he will not seek re-election and will retire at the end of this year.
“It is with a heavy heart I send this email,” Hardel said in announcing his decision to staff and deputies. “With the health of my parents taking a negative turn, and recently some health concerns of my own, I have decided to stop my campaign, and retire at the end of the year.”
Hardel told the Waupaca County Post that he informed the Law Enforcement Committee at its meeting on Monday, June 11. He emailed staff later that day.
“This has been a very difficult decision, as I care deeply for this office, all of you, and the citizens of this great county,” Hardel said in his email to staff. “You have all been part of my family over the past 30 plus years and will be greatly missed.”
In April 1988, Hardel began working in Waupaca County as a corrections and dispatch officer.
He moved to the county’s patrol division in 1991 and became a patrol sergeant in 2000. He was elected sheriff in 2006.
Hardel said he chose a career in law enforcement because his parents taught him the value of community service.
“I’ve always tried to do the best for the county and the citizens I serve,” Hardel said.
Hardel’s name will appear on the Aug. 14 primary ballot, according to Waupaca County Clerk Jill Lodewegen.
She said all the names for the ballot were certified during the first week of June.
“If he wins, he will move on to the November election as the Republican candidate,” Lodewegen said. “If he wins that, he can choose to not take the position.”
If Hardel decides not to become sheriff, Lodewegen said the governor will appoint his replacement.
Sgt. Tim Wilz will also be on the Aug. 14 primary ballot. He is running on the Republican ticket.