Edgar Stokes, a lifelong rancher and former Commissioner of Highlands County, was first elected to the Board of County Commissioners in 1998. His deep understanding of agricultural issues stems from his decades of experience operating The Edgar Stokes Ranch.

Stokes has been actively involved in various agricultural organizations, serving on boards such as the National Cattleman’s Association, Florida Cattleman’s Association, and Florida Farm Bureau Livestock Committee. Notably, he served as President of the Florida Cattleman’s Association and was a member of the National Association’s Board of Directors.

Stokes played a pivotal role in environmental conservation, helping to develop the Environmental Stewardship Program under the Florida Cattleman’s Land Use Committee and establishing the Kissimmee River Advisory Committee. He contributed to agricultural policy by working on the Florida Department of Agriculture’s Nitrate Study Committee, Endangered Species Study Committee, and Congressman Tom Lewis’ Ag Advisory Committee.

Beyond his agricultural pursuits, Stokes is a dedicated community member. He is a longtime Lions Club member and a charter member of the Lorida Volunteer Fire Department. He is an active member of the Lorida Church of the Brethren. He and his wife, Norma, had four children. Norma passed away in 2021.