Newly elected commissioner Linda K. Epling will round out the Raleigh County Commission as both the second Republican and second woman seated.
She held on to an early lead and beat out Democratic candidate Sherrie Hunter 16,394 votes to 11,469.
Epling gathered 58.81 percent of the votes to Hunter’s 41.14.
“I am overwhelmed and humbled and ready to roll up my sleeves and ready to do what I told the people I would do. I’m ready to put Raleigh County first,” Epling said as her friends and family celebrated in the Raleigh County Courthouse Tuesday night.
“I thank my good Lord above and those who worked for me and voted for me. There are too many people to name who worked hard to put me where I am,” she added.
Hunter congratulated Epling on her win and commented, “I’m honored and humbled to have been the Democratic candidate on Raleigh County’s ballot. Anyone who knows me knows that my career has been to improve the quality of life for residents all over southern West Virginia, and I will continue to network with city, county and state officials on initiatives that improve our community.”
Commissioner David Tolliver said he expects there to be a different dynamic on the commission. “I think it will be for the best for the county and I’m eager to work with Mrs. Epling on the commission to get a lot of things accomplished.
“As long as we can do what is best for Raleigh County and be prudent with the taxpayer’s money, I look forward to what we can accomplish,” he said.
Tolliver added that with more than 52 percent of Raleigh County citizens casting their vote Tuesday, “It’s been a good day for Raleigh County.”
Raleigh County’s other commissioner is Democrat Pat Reed.
— E-mail: splummer@register-herald.com
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Tim Epling, left, watches his mother Linda K. Epling reacts to victory at the Raleigh County Courthouse in Beckley Tuesday evening. At right is Raleigh County Sheriff Steve Tanner who was voted into a second term. Rick Barbero
Epling victorious in commission race
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