Special election will be held to fill vacancy

Forsyth County District 2 Commissioner and Vice Chairman Rick Swope has announced his resignation from his post effective at noon on Tuesday, August 15. Swope’s resignation comes as a result of his recent acceptance of an executive position with E*TRADE, a position which strictly limits outside business activities including public service positions.

“I regret not being able to complete my full term,” said Swope, who took office on January 1. “However, it has been an honor to have been a steward of this post and offer my time and talents toward a better representative government in Forsyth County.”

“Forsyth County has resources and potential that makes it the envy of counties across the nation and it has been nothing short of a humbling, distinct honor to serve as commissioner,” said Swope. “I have yet to walk in and be seated in the commission chambers without reflecting on the enormous privilege and responsibility that attends the stewardship of the citizens’ commission seat.”

A special election will be held to fill Swope’s unexpired term, which runs through December 31, 2020. Details regarding the special election will be forthcoming.

The Board of Commissioners is made up of five members, each living in a specific district and elected by district to serve four-year terms. District 2 covers much of the southern portion of the county.