Santa Rosa commissioners name new chair, vice chair

Santa Rosa County Commissioner Sam Parker

MILTON — Santa Rosa County commissioners have selected District 2 Commissioner Bob Cole as chairman for the 2017-2018 fiscal year and District 1 Commissioner Sam Parker as vice chairman.

Cole has been a commissioner since 2002. Santa Rosa County citizens elected Parker in August of 2016.

With a prepared statement Nov. 9, Cole thanked the other board members, citizens and county staff.

He addressed various county needs, saying the commission will maximize its budget for infrastructure needs, public safety, traffic congestion, recreation facilities, protection of Whiting Field and drainage and flooding problems.

“(We will) work to make our economic industry stronger and better-known throughout the United States,” Cole said, “at the same time growing the attraction to tourists throughout our entire country.”

Lastly, he said he wants to see the county develop a plan for the new judicial facility the residents support.

Parker’s comments were brief.

“I appreciate this vote of confidence from my fellow board members to allow me this opportunity,” Parker said.

This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Santa Rosa commissioners name new chair, vice chair