WINDSOR – Rick Harrell will not have to break-in a new chair.

On Monday, Harrell retained his position in the center seat of the Bertie County Board of Commissioners after his colleagues voted unanimously for him to serve his third term as Chairman of the Board.

As is customary at their first meeting in December, the board elects a chairman and vice-chairman for the coming year. Vice-Chairman Norman Cherry Sr. was also the unanimous choice for another term in that position.

Harrell was first elected board chairman in December of 2003 and reelected one year later. He is currently in the midst of his second, four-year term as a Bertie Commissioner.

“I am humbled by this opportunity to again serve this board as its chairman,” Harrell said after being nominated by L.C. Hoggard III, a move seconded by Wallace Perry.

Harrell continued, “It’s an absolute honor to serve as your chairman. Your confidence to allow me to serve as chairman is very humbling.”

Turning his attention to the large crowd in attendance for Monday’s meeting, Harrell said, “You have a good group of people representing Bertie County. They have the well-being of this county at heart. As long as we keep in perspective that we are merely the servants of the fine citizens of Bertie County, we will be able to serve you in the best way possible.”

Commissioner Perry nominated Cherry to retain the position of vice-chairman. Hoggard seconded Perry’s nomination.

“Thank-you for your support and confidence in me,” Cherry said. “Together, we will do what is right for the citizens of Bertie County.”