Paulding to Have New Transportation Board Rep

Former state Rep. Jeff Lewis—a self-employed small-businessman living in Cartersville—was elected Wednesday to the State Transportation Board. He will represent the 11th Congressional District, which includes Paulding County, starting April 15.

“I am truly honored to have been chosen for this important position,” Lewis said in a press release, pledging to keep an open line of communication with legislators.

“I believe I have a good reputation for working well with others. I look forward to joining the board and using my General Assembly experience to be an active transportation advocate for all of the areas that encompass the 11th Congressional District as well as all Georgia short-term and long-term transportation needs.”

Before Wednesday’s election, Lewis had served neighboring Bartow County as a 16-year member of the state House of Representatives. He lost his 15th District seat to Paul Battles of Cartersville in the 2008 Republican primary; Battles won that year’s general election and earned a second term last year.

David Doss of Rome ran against Lewis and others, seeking a third term on the board. Doss, who had served as board chairman, was first seated on the board in 2002.

The board governs the  Georgia Department of Transportation. Its 13 members, representing each of the state’s congressional districts, exercise general control and supervision of the department. 

Each member serves a five-year term, and the terms are staggered. Board members are elected by the state representatives and senators whose legislative districts fall within all or part of the congressional district.

The Rome News-Tribune has more on the close election.