Don Bryant’s win in the Democratic primary Tuesday puts him on track for a job as a Richmond County Commissioner. Bryant is a former Richmond Senior High school teacher who has run a small business in Richmond County since 1978.

“I’m glad to be going in and I’m thankful for all of the support I received,” Bryant said. “I want to maximize all the great things we have in Richmond County and bring jobs. We have water and I want to look at industries that use water.”

The four top vote getters in the Democratic primary will face Republican Ben Moss in November.

Pam Dillman was the top vote-getter in the primary for County Commissioner. Dillman is the first female to be elected to the county commissioners and is thankful for all of the support she has received.

“With strong leadership there should be some jobs here. I have been working with Larry Kissell to bring some distribution centers,” said Dillman.

Incumbent Thad Ussery was somewhat surprised by election results. His main concern is for the board to continue to function as a team.

“I hope that the one coming on is coming for the right reason and that is to improve the county. I can work with anyone. I hope that there is no personal agenda, but an agenda to benefit the county,” Ussery said.

Ussery feels that experience is necessary to serve the community accurately. One of the first issues the commissioners may face will be tight budgets. Ussery believes the board has lost a vital member in Paul Wilson.

“We lost a good man,” said Ussery.

Paul Wilson and Jimmy Capps were contacted and declined to comment.

Candidate Larry Rogers was blunt with his comments and explained his disappointment in the voters of Richmond County. Rogers ran as an unaffiliated candidate during the last candidate election in 2008.

“Apparently the citizens do not want change or they would vote the old out. That tells me they don’t want to improve their lives,” said Rogers. “I hope that Dillman and Bryant will be able to work against the other five ... (who) don’t do anything.”

“I am humbled that people have confidence in me,” said Jimmy Maske who received a seat to run in the November election.

Maske is looking to represent the people in Richmond County and their wishes. He does not see any changes in the future or have any set plans thus far.

Both Tony Martin and Greg Norton expressed their gratitude for those who supported each of them.

“It was a good learning process. I am beginning to get my name out there in he political arena. Now I will take some time to evaluate things and decide if I will run again in the future,” said Norton.

H.L. Webb hopes the citizens of Richmond County are looked after. “The citizens spoke and I accept it,” Webb said.

Cameron Quick can be reached at (910) 997-3111 ext. 15 or cquick@yourdailyjournal.com.