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Republican Michael Smith announced Wednesday, Oct. 25, that he is seeking election to the position of Chairman of the Covington County Commission.

Michael was born in Covington County and raised in the Straughn community. He is a 1990 graduate of Straughn High School.

“It has been an honor to serve the citizens of Covington County as commissioner over the past several years. I would like to serve as our county chairman to have more transparency with the commission, community, and amongst the commission itself,” Smith said. “I believe communication is the key in any successful business. I also believe in strong leadership and being open-minded for new ideas that can make Covington County a better place to live and raise a family. During this term, the commission has been able to give cost of living increases and absorb the rise in insurance premiums for employees of the county while maintaining a balanced budget with the help of hard work by employees and department heads. While accomplishing this, the county commission has decreased the county debt as well.”

Michael received his associate’s degree in Emergency Medical Services from LBW Community College. Currently self-employed, he previously served the community as the former owner of Advanced EMS in Andalusia.

“During my time on the commission, I have fought for the citizens on several issues that could have an impact on their way of life in the communities they live in. I have been supportive of the educational systems in the county and will continue to support these systems. I believe we have to invest in the children of this county to make sure the county continues to grow and be successful. During the time on the commission, we have been able to get several paving projects accomplished with the help of the engineer’s office with federal, state, and local monies. I believe in transparency with the community and among the commission to make the county government strong,” he said.

Michael is married to Elaine Smith with three children: Jonathan Smith, Taylor Smith, and Ethan Smith. He is the son of June Smith and the late John Smith.

He will be a candidate for election in the Republican Primary scheduled for March 5, 2024.