DAWSONVILLE, Ga. – Former longtime Sheriff Billy Carlisle stunned Dawson County voters today by announcing that he will not be a candidate for the District 3 seat on the Board of Commissioners.

Less than three weeks after announcing his candidacy, Carlisle issued the following statement:

“After much prayer and thought, I have decided against qualifying for the open District 3 commission seat, for Dawson County. I apologize for any confusion this may have caused with the voting citizens of our county, but I don’t feel like I can give this position 100% at this time. I have always felt honored serving the citizens of this county, and they deserve to be represented by someone who has the time and leadership ability needed to lead the county forward. I wish all the other candidates good luck in the upcoming election.”