Published: January 05, 2009 10:45 pm      

Hank Florey is new board president

District 1 Supervisor Hank Florey was voted 2009 president of the Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors Monday morning. A nomination of District 4 Supervisor Joe Norwood was voted down by the majority of the board.

Norwood was nominated by District 3 Supervisor Craig Hitt, but Florey, 2008 President Ray Boswell (Dist. 5), and Wayman Newell (Dist. 2) all voted "no" on the motion to make Norwood president.

Newell then nominated Florey, who was elected president 3-2 by himself, Boswell, and Newell. Newell was elected vice president of the board after being nominated by Boswell.

Florey said this is his third time to serve as board president and that he plans for the board to put an emphasis on prudent budgeting and economic development this year.

He said he has pledged openness and fairness to his fellow supervisors, and hard work and dedication to duty to the people of Lauderdale County.

When asked why he voted against Norwood's nomination, Florey said: "I thought I would be nominated and I had support as president. I have nothing against Joe."

Florey said he was unaware before the meeting that Norwood would be nominated. "I had no idea who would be nominated," he said. "I had not lobbied for the position. And I feel like I'm qualified to serve."

Newell said: "It is an honor to be nominated and voted to become vice president and I look forward to serving under Mr. Florey's leadership ... I look forward to being a working supervisor and letting people see their tax dollars in use."

When asked why he voted against Norwood's nomination in favor of Florey, Newell cited Florey's many years experience as a supervisor and his previous terms as board president, adding, "I think it's an honor for me to sit by Mr. Florey ... I respect him on the work that he does in this county and his views."

Norwood also has served as board president.

"It feels real good (to be board president)," Florey said, "and I look forward to 2009 and the challenges it presents."