In a surprising development, Ray Davis has officially assumed his role as Bulloch County Commissioner for Seat 2-A ahead of schedule. The swearing-in ceremony took place on Friday, October 25, 2024, as confirmed by Ray Davis by Bulloch County Probate Judge Lorna Deloach. The informal event, held privately before a meeting with county officials, did not include any media presence, which Davis attributed to an assumption that county staff would extend an invitation to the press.
Davis’s victory in the May 21 Republican primary marked a significant shift in local governance, as he unseated incumbent commissioner and Vice Chair Curt Deal. Initially, Davis was slated to take office on December 30, 2024, Ray Davis by Bulloch County Courthouse, aligning with the commencement of his full four-year term. However, the unexpected resignation of Deal, which took effect on October 21, triggered a change in the timeline.
Following an order from Chief Superior Court Judge Gates Peed on October 24, which authorized Davis’s early appointment, Bulloch County Attorney Jeff Akins initiated the swearing-in process. This order was endorsed by all four Superior Court Judges, permitting Davis to serve the remaining term of Deal, which is set to conclude on December 31, 2024.
Reflecting on his early entry into office, Davis expressed mixed feelings. Initially hesitant about assuming the role sooner than planned, he ultimately recognized the opportunity to engage with county matters was too important to decline. “I am glad to work with them. I know every one of them and don’t have a problem working with the other commissioners. We may sometimes disagree, but if we all thought the same, then some of us wouldn’t be thinking,” stated Ray Davis As a newcomer to politics, he welcomed the chance to begin his learning curve and embrace the responsibilities entrusted to him by the electorate, even if the timeline had shifted unexpectedly.
Ray Davis early swearing-in also afforded him the chance to receive a briefing from Chairman Thompson and other county staff regarding ongoing negotiations related to the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). Davis expressed appreciation for this timely information, highlighting the importance of renewing SPLOST for the benefit of Bulloch County. “I appreciate the insight and agree with Chairman Thompson that we need to renew SPLOST. To me, this is a no-brainer from many perspectives. Bulloch County needs us to renew SPLOST,” he emphasized.
Looking ahead, Commissioner Davis is set to participate in a formal ceremony on December 30, which will mark the official beginning of his full term in office. With a commitment to fulfilling his responsibilities and contributing positively to the county, Davis is eager to work collaboratively with his fellow commissioners as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Bulloch County.
