Bowen Resigning as Fayette Coroner

Fayette County Coroner Bruce Bowen is resigning after 17 years in office.

The resignation is effective December 31, 2017.

Bowen issued a written press release, stating his resignation is due to a perceived lack of respect. In his statement, Bowen said, "My budget for 2018 was prepared by an outside company with no input from me. All the other department heads were scheduled for a budget meeting and allowed input on their budget; I was not. I didn't realize my budget was prepared by an outside source until it was on public display. I only received a copy after asking for it. I consider this maneuver disrespectful to me."

Bowen also said, "It will be impossible to operate the coroner's office within this budget. I will be no part of the failure it will be."

Bowen said he has been fiscally responsible throughout his tenure, including acquiring many grants to relieve the tax burden on the citizens of Fayette County.

Bowen closed his statement with, "I leave with no hard feelings to anyone, just disappointment." He also said he is committed to training a new person in his position and providing all the necessary elements of transition. He said his recommendation to the County Board is that a person be appointed (to the position) immediately; adding, "they will have a mountain to climb and two months to accomplish it."

Bowen had planned to retire after his last term, but ran for re-election after no one else filed for the post. He also announced a run for sheriff in 2014, then withdrew and remained in the coroner's office.