Six months after winning three seats on the Orange County Board of Commissioners, officials said they are excited about the county’s progress.
Earl McKee defeated Republican candidate Greg Andrews from Efland for the District 2 seat to become the newest commissioner.
“I have enjoyed the learning process,” he said.
Commissioner Barry Jacobs, who is in his fourth term, ran unopposed for the at-large seat after defeating two other Democrats in the primaries.
The commissioners said a huge issue for the county this year is promoting a quarter-cent sales tax that will benefit education and economic development.
Although a similar tax proposal failed 51 percent to 49 percent in November, the board hopes a better awareness campaign will help the tax pass this year.
“We didn’t start till virtually September for a November decision,” he said. “I think the fact that it’s been on before will make it more familiar to voters.”
The tax is expected to generate $2.3 million if approved.
As the county faces a challenging budget session, the revenue from the tax will become more important, Jacobs said.
