During the reorganizational portion of the Jan. 5 meeting, the Russell County Board of Supervisors held nominations and elected leadership for calendar year 2026. David Eaton was nominated and elected chairman; Rebecca Dye was elected vice chairman. Following the elections, the board adopted Robert’s Rules of Order and approved the county bylaws.

The board also set its regular meeting schedule for calendar year 2026 to the first Monday of every month at 6 p.m. (motion carried). Committee appointments were made to several regional and county committees, including budget and economic development boards.

Separately, members discussed a proposal to reduce board membership (considering four election districts plus an at‑large seat to create five total members). County Attorney Tyler explained that changing the board size would require ordinance drafting, public hearings and might carry legal and implementation costs; several members asked the county administrator and attorney to prepare cost and representation analyses. The board tabled the matter to allow staff to return with fiscal estimates and redistricting options.

Source: Organizational election and governance discussion (transcript beginning SEG 1820).