Following Tuesday’s vote against retaining her for another 10-year term, Lycoming County President Judge Nancy Butts issued a statement Thursday, thanking the county she has served for over three decades.

“After nearly 30 years on the bench, I will be concluding my service as a Judge of the Lycoming County Court of Common Pleas at the end of this year. While the recent election outcome was not what I had hoped for, I accept it with gratitude–for the privilege I’ve had to serve this community for so long,” Butts’ statement said.

“When I was first elected in 1995, I pledged to be “committed to public service, committed to serving you.” Every day since, I have strived to fulfill that promise: presiding over thousands of cases, founding our Treatment Courts, and leading collaborative justice initiatives that have saved lives, reunited families, and made our communities safer,” the statement continued.

Butts oversaw some of the county’s most complex and serious cases during her time on the bench, including capital homicide trials, crimes against children and sentencing those struggling with substance use disorder,” she said in the statement.

“I have always focused on upholding the law with fairness, compassion, and integrity,” Butts said, while noting that her service to the county went beyond just the courtroom.

“I have been honored to give back in many ways–as an emergency medical technician (EMT), CPR instructor, Relay for Life volunteer and active member of the Community Theatre League, where I’ve served in multiple leadership roles over the years,” she said, adding that these connections grounded her in the community she has proudly served.

“I am especially proud of what we’ve built together through our Treatment Courts, which are recognized across Pennsylvania as among the most effective in helping individuals rebuild their lives and return to their homes and families. These courts reflect what’s possible when accountability, treatment and compassion work together to create safer communities,” Butts’ statement read.

The judge went on to thank those who have helped make her work possible over the years, including colleagues, staff, treatment providers, law enforcement officers, public servants and citizens.

“I especially thank those who entrusted me with decisions that affected their lives and futures. It was never a responsibility I took lightly,” she added.

“While my time as a judge is coming to a close, my commitment to justice and public service is not. I look forward to discovering new ways to serve the community that has meant so much to me,” Butts said in the statement.

“Thank you, Lycoming County–for 30 unforgettable years,” her statement concluded.

Butts’ tenure will come to a close on Dec. 31, 2025.