Blunt to appoint Helms as circuit clerk

Helms, 42 of Springfield, would replace Michael Carr, who is retiring Feb. 29. Helms, who ran for state representative in 2006, heard about the open position from a friend.

“I looked at it and spoke with (Carr) and a few other folks, and I decided that it would be a good opportunity, that I would be able to make improvements and make a difference,” Helms said.

Because it is an elected position, Helms will need to run in the November election to stay in the post, he said. The term would end in 2010.

Helms said he plans to keep his Springfield insurance agency going. Two employees will hold down the fort as he relocates to his county office, he said.

Helms served in the U.S. Army 1988–1996 and attended Ozarks Technical Community College, Austin Peay State University and Hopkinsville Community College, according to a news release from Blunt’s office.