Highlands County commissioners elect Don Elwell chair, Chris Campbell vice chair

Don Elwell was elected chair of the Highlands County Board of County Commissioners during the commission’s reorganizational session, and Commissioner Chris Campbell was chosen vice chair.

Elwell — who was nominated from the dais and confirmed by roll call — thanked colleagues and said he planned to “build on the commission’s commitment to respect and transparency, accountability, open government.” He told the board the county would resume livestreaming meetings and begin audiovisual improvements “within the next month or so.”

Outgoing chair Arlene Tuck was recognized by staff for her year of service; Lori Herner, speaking for county staff, presented a plaque that noted her term as chair from November 2024 to November 2025.

The leadership changes were handled by oral nomination and roll‑call votes recorded in the meeting minutes. The new chair used his first remarks to emphasize small changes aimed at making meetings more welcoming to citizens who appear before the commission.

The commission moved next to regular announcements and agenda items including recognitions, presentations and public hearings.

The meeting adjourned after a full agenda that included proclamations, public hearings and action items.