MONTGOMERY — The executive director of the Association of County Commissions of Alabama is retiring after more than 36 years with the association.

O.H. “Buddy” Sharpless said he will step down at the end of February. The 61-year-old Sharpless is one of the longest serving association directors in Montgomery. The association’s assistant director, Sonny Brasfield, will move up to the top spot.

The association’s duties include representing county commissions on political issues in Montgomery.