Livingston Board has new chair

PONTIAC - There is a change at the top for the Livingston County Board.

Bob Young of Emington was chosen as the new chairman during Monday night’s re-organizational meeting at the Livingston County Courthouse. Young received 13 votes to Tim Shafer’s 11 votes for the post, although Shafer was eventually selected as vice-chairman.

Young served several years as a school administrator and considers his time serving on the county board one of the most worthwhile things he has ever done. Young said the wishes of the people in individual townships will be followed.

“I think sometimes we may disagree on issues but I think we’ve been able to walk out of a board meeting and still be friends.”

Shafer has worked in the banking industry for several years and looks forward to serving the county in this capacity.

“I think most people would agree I’m relatively easy to get along with,” Shafer said.

There was actually a three-way race for vice-chair between Shafer, Mike Ingles and former chairman Marty Fannin. Shafer received 13 votes while Ingles received nine and Fannin two votes. Brand new board members Steven Lovell and John Slagel officially took the oath of office, along with re-elected board members, and said they both look forward to serving.

“I would like to thank the people of District Two that elected me,” said Lovell.

“Thank you to the people of District Three. I’m looking forward to representing you,” added Slagel.

Livingston County Clerk and Recorder Kristy Masching opened the meeting while board member Robert Weller served as temporary chairman for the first several minutes. A credentials committee consisting of Kathy Arbogast, Justin Goembel and Dave Heath reviewed the most recent election results and Judge Mark Fellheimer administered the oath of office to board members.