Jeff Perry chosen to fill Coffee County Commission District 2 seat

Jeff Perry was selected by the Coffee County Commission to fill the vacancy in County Commission District 2 after a roll-call vote that gave him 12 of the commissioners' votes. The chair announced Perry had exceeded the 10‑vote threshold required by the body and invited him to be sworn in by the county clerk.

Perry, who addressed the commission as a nominee, described 20 years of utility experience and a recent term as director of Manchester's Water and Sewer Department. He told the commission he supports "controlled, thoughtful growth" and emphasized that citizen input should guide decisions that affect local infrastructure.

Two other nominees spoke before the vote. Wilma Thomas said she previously served two terms on the commission and emphasized that she would listen and work cooperatively; Matthew (Matt) Harris, an attorney and local business owner, said he supports guided growth with adequate infrastructure and highlighted his community involvement.

The commission conducted a roll-call vote, with the clerk announcing 12 votes for Perry, two for Thomas and one for Harris. The chair noted Perry had received more than the minimum 10 votes required to conduct business. The chair publicly thanked the other nominees for stepping forward. The commission then invited Perry forward for swearing in and directed him to take his seat among commissioners.

The appointment results were announced during the meeting's nomination and appointment segment; the clerk recorded the roll-call and the chair confirmed the selection. No legal authorities or ordinances were cited during the appointment discussion.