The Boyle County Board of Education will be down one member at the end of this month, following the pending resignation of Board member Jesse Johnson.

Johnson announced his resignation Thursday night as he read from a letter he had prepared. In the statement, he explained that he and his wife have recently completed construction on a house in Parksville, which is outside District 5, covering Junction City.

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve this community by being on the Board of Education,” he said.

His resignation will be effective Dec. 30.

Superintendent Mike LaFavers said the board had made some big decisions while Johnson had been present.

“You brought reason and thoughtfulness to the board as we contemplated difficult things — whether or not to pursue the nickel tax, what kind of middle school to build … you’ve been a key member. I want to thank you for serving,” LaFavers said.

When such vacancies occur in during a term, the position is filled by the Kentucky Commissioner of Education after an interview process with interested applicants. Johnson was placed on the board in May 2013 following the February 2013 departure of Alaine Mills from the board.

He served the almost year-and-a-half remaining of that term, then ran unopposed in 2014 to win his spot again.

Johnson said he plans to run for the Board of Education District 3 seat in the upcoming election. That seat is currently held by Julie Jones, who has served since 2010.