After 41 years, and countless elections, Sandoval County Bureau of Elections Director Eddie Gutierrez has decided to retire.

Gutierrez started his tenure with the county on September 3, 1974 as part a special Veteran’s work program. He became a regular, full-time county employee in January 1975.

During that time, Gutierrez has supervised the balloting process for Sandoval County voters through 12 different presidential elections, and hundreds of state and local elections.

“My decision to retire was not an easy one because I love my job,” Gutierrez said. “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve Sandoval County. While I look forward to retirement, I will miss all of the wonderful people I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years.”

Gutierrez’s official retirement date will be December 31, 2015.