State Rep. Charlie Meier, R-Okawville, is resigning his seat on the Washington County Board so that he can focus on state legislative work.

Meier said his resignation is effective Feb. 28. He has served on the County Board for six years.

"I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the Washington County Board in the building, built on the foundation that my great-great-grandfather hand-cut -- a good, solid foundation. This foundation was built with hard work and perseverance," Meier said. "I will bring the same foundation to Springfield during a time when the state needs it most."

He added, "I'm proud of the work we were able to accomplish during my time on the board, from having one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state, to working with the Prairie State Energy facility and the 500 permanent jobs it brought. I want to bring a bit more of the Washington County way to Springfield."

Meier was elected in November as a state representative.