WINDSOR – As was expected, there’s a new face at the helm of the Bertie County Commissioners.

That face is Norman M. Cherry Sr., former vice-chairman of the board. Cherry was first elected in 2000 and served as vice-chairman from 2003-2006.

Commissioner L.C. Hoggard III nominated Cherry for the position during Monday’s annual organizational meeting and Commissioner Charles Smith seconded the motion.

There were no other nominations and the board voted unanimously in Cherry’s favor.

&uot;I’d like to thank (former chairman) Rick Harrell for his years of service and thanks also to the other commissioners for their continued service to Bertie County citizens,&uot; Cherry stated after his nomination was accepted.

He continued, &uot;As the new chair, I pledge to continue the work this board has undertaken, to promote Bertie County and its citizens. We as an entire board pledge to serve as best we can.&uot;

The change in leadership was expected after last week’s press conference in which Harrell announced he would not accept another nomination for chairman.

After being chosen as the new chairman and thanking everyone, Cherry then took his seat and opened the floor for nominations for vice-chairman.

Commissioner Harrell nominated Hoggard to retain the vice-chairman seat and Commissioner Wallace Perry seconded the motion. It passed without objection.

Hoggard was first chosen as vice-chairman in 2006.