Elected officials take the oath of office
By Mike Steely
steelym@knoxfocus.com
“The new school board represents a historic change and opportunity and sets the stage for real change in the educational process in Knox County,” said new Board of Education member Tony Norman of District 3. Norman was among several newly elected or re-elected county officials to respond to The Focus request for a one sentence comment after taking the Oath of Office Thursday. Here are some of the other remarks:
Jennifer Owen, School Board District 2:
“I am excited to ring in a new era of cooperation and collegiality between the Board and County Commission as we work to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars, while giving our children the skills they need to be successful citizens.”
Susan Horn, School Board District 5:
“I am certainly humbled to have the opportunity to serve and looking forward to the next four years.”
Sydney Rowell, Student Representative, Board of Education:
“Taking an oath for the first time was an experience I will never forget, and it reinforced my desire to pursue a career in public service.”
Bud Armstrong, Knox County Law Director:
“I’m so thankful to the citizens of Knox County for letting me serve them.”
John Whitehead, Knox County Property Assessor:
“I’m glad to be back and appreciate the voters putting me here, love to serve the people.”
Evelyn Gill, Commissioner, District 1:
“The oath represents my promise to the constituents of the 1st District, my goal is to listen, serve and advocate on behalf of the community.”
Michelle Carringer, Commissioner District 2:
“I am still so humbled and honored to be the Knox County Commissioner for District 2 and promise to work hard to represent all of the great people of the district and Knox County.”
Hugh Nystrom, Commissioner, District 4:
“I am honored to take the oath today to officially begin serving the residents of the 4th district.”
John Schoonmaker, Commissioner, District 5:
“Today is a great day for all of Knox County and I am honored to have the opportunity to continue to serve the citizens of the 5th Commission District.”
Dave Wright, Commissioner District 8:
“I am honored to be re-elected and it’s a midpoint in my service for the 8th district, Carter and Gibbs schools are behind us and I look forward to other things like fire protection, roads, convenience centers, etc.”
Carson Dailey, Commissioner, District 9:
“I am honored to serve.”
Commissioner Brad Anders, District 6, was not present and will be sworn in Thursday, September 8.
