MOORE — Longtime Cleveland County Commissioner George Skinner will not seek re-election to a sixth term, it was announced this past week.
Skinner, 76, took office in 1991. He represents District 2 and currently serves as chairman of the three-member board of commissioners.
“I want to thank my constituents for supporting me and allowing me to serve them for five terms as their county commissioner,” he said. “I am truly honored that the people have placed their faith and trust in me for the last 21 years.”
At the end of his term, Skinner will have served in the position longer than anyone in the county’s history. At least one Republican candidate, David Houck, has announced plans to file for the office. Skinner was first elected as a Democrat but switched parties after being elected twice.
Skinner said he plans to spend time traveling with his wife and enjoying his 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
“It’s been very humbling that the voters have allowed me to be a public servant for so many years. It’s been a great ride. May God bless each and every one of you.”
During Skinner’s terms in office, the board opened the Alan J. Couch Juvenile Center, built new Norman and Moore health department buildings, remodeled and expanded the Cleveland County Courthouse without tax increases and will soon dedicate the F. DeWayne Beggs Justice Center.
“Additionally, our road crew will has constructed over 700 miles of new roads. We are fortunate to have assembled a road crew second to none. I want to thank them, and tell them I am proud of each and every one of them,” Skinner said.
He said the county has a bright future and he’s proud to “have played a small part in laying the foundation.”
“We have an outstanding team of elected officials in Cleveland County. Our ability to work together has allowed us to do great things for the citizens of the county. I love them all and will dearly miss working with them on a day to day basis,” Skinner said.
