Two new faces join five incumbents on Wake County Board

The Wake County Board of Commissioners tonight welcomed two new members and elected its top leaders for the year ahead.

During Monday's regular meeting, the commissioners unanimously selected Matt Calabria as chair and Vickie Adamson as vice chair. The votes came after all seven board members took their oaths of office to begin their new terms.

“I’m proud to lead this dedicated team of people who will work hard every day to make a difference in our community,” Chair Calabria said. “As we tackle the ongoing challenges brought about by COVID-19, we’ll strive to protect our residents from the virus and connect those who are struggling with support services, such as healthful food, housing assistance and help heating their homes.”

Matt Calabria was first elected to the Board of Commissioners in 2014. Vice Chair Adamson joined the board in 2018. Each will serve a one-year term in these new leadership roles.

The remaining five board members include incumbents Susan Evans, Sig Hutchinson and Dr. James West, as well as new commissioners Shinica Thomas and Maria Cervania.

The commission is elected by voters countywide. The board members set the county property tax rate and approve an annual budget that funds schools and the sheriff’s office. They also oversee the county’s health department, social services, emergency medical services, parks and more. The board directs the county-level COVID-19 response, as well as land-use and zoning regulations.

The board also sets strategic goals and objectives to help guide the county’s funding decisions, project prioritization and resource usage. The goals currently include: Community Health, Economic Strength, Education, Great Government, Growth and Sustainability, Public Safety and Social and Economic Vitality.

Learn more about the Wake County Board of Commissioners and view upcoming meeting schedules and agendas at wakegov.com/commissioners.