Brooks Matthews took the oath of office to become a Harnett County Commissioner, representing District 3, at this morning’s Board of Commissioners meeting. The Honorable Franklin F. Lanier, Retired Superior Court Judge, administered the oath of office in the County Administration Building in Lillington and Matthews’ wife, Rosa Maria Matthews, held the Bible during the ceremony.
“I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to represent the citizens of not only District 3, but all of Harnett County,” stated Commissioner W. Brooks Matthews. “I have enjoyed my years of service with Harnett County Schools and am looking forward to working with the Harnett County Government leadership and staff. I would like to thank everyone who has supported and mentored me through the years and especially during the campaign season. Also, I would be remiss if I did not give a special thank you to my wife, Rosa Maria, and all of my family for their encouragement, love, and devotion. I am truly blessed!”
The Harnett County Republican Party nominated Matthews to fill the Harnett County Board of Commissioners District 3 seat, which was left vacant after former Harnett County Commissioner Howard Penny Jr. was chosen to fill the vacant District 53 House seat in the North Carolina House of Representatives. The Harnett County Board of Commissioners approved Matthews’ nomination during their September 21 meeting.
Matthews is running unopposed for the District 3 seat in the upcoming General Election this November.
“I am pleased to congratulate Brooks on being sworn in as a new Commissioner,” stated County Manager Paula Stewart. “Being a long-time resident of Harnett County and someone who has been dedicated to serving our community, especially in the Harnett County School System, he understands many of the challenges we face. I’m sure he will continue to be a strong advocate for our citizens’ needs in this position.”
Matthews has over 40 years of experience working in public education in Harnett County. In his career, he has served as a teacher, coach, athletic director, and principal at various Harnett County schools. Since 2014, Matthews has been Deputy Superintendent with Harnett County Schools.
Matthews is an active member of his community, serving or having served, on the following Boards and Committees: North Carolina High School Athletic Association Board of Directors, Campbell University Alumni Association Board of Directors, Harnett County Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors, and Boys & Girls Club of Central Carolina: Robin Paige Club Advisory Board.
Matthews is a long time resident of Harnett County and resides in Buies Creek with his wife of 45 years, Rosa Maria. He has three children, Maria, Jennifer, and Heather, and six grandchildren.
As a Commissioner, Matthews will serve on the Harnett Properties Corporation and Harnett County Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee.
