Solemn promises

On Friday, December 20, 2019, the Hon. Timothy K. Sanner, Chief and Presiding Judge of the Virginia 16^th Judicial Circuit and presiding judge of Goochland Circuit Court, welcomed those who filled his courtroom to witness the oath taking by newly elected officials.

The Hon. Timothy K. Sanner

“It is entirely appropriate on this ceremonial occasion to assemble in this place to honor those who choose to seek elected office and enter public service,” said Sanner. “They take a solemn oath to serve those who placed their faith in them by electing them to office.”

The oath is simple. “I (insert name) do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support the Constitution of the United States, and the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Virginia, the ordinances of the County of Goochland and that I will faithfully and impartially discharge all the duties incumbent upon me as (insert office) according to the best of my ability, (so help me God)."

Having had much practice in such ceremonies during his tenure on the bench, Judge Sanner, overcoming a bit of hoarseness, swore in Goochland’s newly elected officials in an expeditious manner. Deputies of Constitutional Officers who were able to attend, also took an oath. Those unable to attend will be sworn in at another time.

First up was the school board. Its members are Sandra Barefoot-Reid, District 1; William Quarles, Jr., District 2; Karen Horn, District 3; Michael Newman, District 4; and John Wright, District 5. Barefoot-Reid, Quarles, and Newman, who previously served as principal of Goochland High School, are new to the board.

(L to R) Dr. Jonathan Lyle, Ken Peterson, Neil Spoonhower

Next came the Board of Supervisors comprised of Susan Lascolette, District 1; Neil Spoonhower, District 2; John Lumpkins, Jr., District 3; Don Sharpe, District 4; and Ken Peterson, District 5. Spoonhower and Sharpe are newcomers.

Dr. Jonathan Lyle took his oath as Director for the Monacan Soil and Water Conservation District.

Then Judge Sanner swore in the Constitutional Officers followed by their deputies.

In order they were new County Sheriff Steven Ned Creasey; Treasurer, Pamela Duncan, who received the most votes county wide in November’s election; Commissioner of the Revenue, Jennifer Brown; and Commonwealth’s Attorney D. Michael Caudill.

Sheriff Jim Agnew "passes the torch" to Sheriff Steven Creasey.

Sanner asked outgoing Sheriff James L. Agnew if he wished to say a few words. Agnew smiled at the assembled deputies and dispatchers. “I leave you in very good hands with very capable people. I would be remiss not to mention our governing and school boards who have evolved and improved greatly over the years.  You are wonderful to work with. We could not be in a better place than we are now.”

Agnew used the new circuit court security annex building, dedicated on December 18 at a metaphor for the current climate in local government.

“This would not have been possible even ten years ago. I can think of no better example of how this board (of supervisors), Court and Sheriff’s office worked together. This building was a long time coming. Its primary purpose is to keep the court and those in it safe; it must mesh with the architecture of the courthouse square; and be functional when this courtroom is no longer in use. All were accomplished because of this court and this board. I am very grateful your honor and it’s been my pleasure serve you and the citizens.”

The courtroom emptied quickly when the ceremony was over. Only the supervisors and Sheriff's folks lingered for photos.

Goochland Sheriff Steven Creasey, Clerk of Court Dale Agnew, and outgoing Sheriff Jim Agnew with deputies. Powhatan Sheriff Nunnally far right, Powhatan Chief Deputy Searfoss, far left.

Board of Supervisors l to r: Neil Spoonhower; Don Sharpe; Susan Lascolette; John Lumpkins, Jr., and Ken Peterson.