By Betsy Finklea
A new mayor took the oath of office in a ceremony at the Latta Town Hall on Friday.
Judge James E. Lockemy presided. Three past mayors were present for the ceremony—Nancy G. Brigman, the outgoing mayor; Allan Brigman, a former mayor; and T.F. “Buzzy” Finklea, Jr., a former mayor and current Dillon County Councilman for District Four.
Charles Lemon, Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office chief deputy, opened with prayer.
Outgoing mayor Nancy Brigman made a few remarks. She said she had served 10 years and felt she had run the good race and fought the good fight. She said she liked the challenges of the office and said Latta was a good place with good people.
After her remarks, Earl Bullard took the oath of office as mayor. Judge James E. Lockemy administered the oath. Bullard’s grandson, Zachary Roberts, held the Bible. After taking the oath, Mayor Bullard also made some remarks. He said he served on council many years ago and when he came off, the last thing on his mind was entering politics again.
He said Nancy Brigman was instrumental in him running for office as she kept asking him to run. He said he was humbled by the fact that he was standing there and that he did not take it lightly.
Bullard said the town has a great future ahead of it. He said he could live anywhere in the world, but he wouldn’t take a million dollars for Latta.
He thanked all in attendance for their confidence and friendship.
He also recognized Mayors Allan and Nancy Brigman for their almost half a century of combined service to the town.