Tuesday morning was the final regularly-scheduled meeting for two members of the Decatur County Board of Commissioners.

Dr. Earl Perry has served the people of District 1 for 10 years, and was set to continue his term through Dec. 31, 2014. However, repeated health problems have forced him to resign, effective Dec. 31, 2012. His replacement will be appointed by current members of the board.

Dr. Charles T. Stafford has served District 3 since 2008. He lost his re-election bid this year, and will be replaced by Dennis Brinson in January 2013.

The board was scheduled to meet again Dec. 25, but that meeting was canceled due to the Christmas holiday. Unless there is a called meeting between now and Dec. 31, Tuesday was the final meeting for Perry and Stafford.

Both Perry and Stafford have given their time, energy and talents to public service. Although we did not always agree with all of their decisions, we believe that they usually had the county’s best interests at heart. Being a commissioner is a major commitment, and we appreciate their service.