Brad Gilbert elected Washington County Council president after contested votes

The Washington County Council elected Councilmember Brad Gilbert as council president after two rounds of voting during the Feb. 2 joint session with the county commissioners. Gilbert won the second ballot 4–3 after an earlier vote for Andrew Davisson failed 3–4. "I have talked to the council and all members agree that everyone needs to work together," Gilbert said after the outcome.

The contested leadership votes came during the council's annual reorganization. Andrew Davisson was nominated by Preston Shell and cited readiness to serve, saying "this role is about responsibility and I'm ready to serve." Gerald Fleming was chosen as vice-president by a 4–3 vote. The council moved through nominations, a motion to close nominations and the formal roll calls before resuming the meeting's agenda.