Maine’s Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap administered the oath of office to Lincoln County’s most recently elected officials during a brief ceremony in the Lincoln County Superior Courtroom Jan. 5.
Commissioner Chairman Sheridan Bond took his oath of office for the third time, assuming a four-year position on the board. “I take my position very seriously,” he said following the ceremony.
Lincoln County Judge of Probate Judge Thomas Berry was also sworn in, beginning another four-year term, Berry has served as Judge of Probate for 20 years.
Lincoln County newest commissioner, Lynn Gilley Orne, took the oath of office for the very first time, following her election in November. Orne has rarely missed a commissioner’s meeting as a member of the public and a Southport selectman for the past four years.
Leading the special ceremony, Dunlap emphasized the responsibility of serving in an elected office, owing to the public trust inherent to the position.
“This is quite a solemn occasion,” Dunlap said. “The oath of office is an extraordinary thing.”
Addressing those in attendance including Commissioner Chair Bill Blodgett and new County Administrator John O’Connell, Dunlap said the officials, family members and friends gathered in the formal setting, lend dignity and importance to an occasion that seldom receives the attention it should.
“It is a wobbling pivot on which the Constitution stands,” he said. “It dates back to Roman times and is an extraordinarily important step in the path of public service. I hope you remember this.”
A luncheon followed the ceremony for guests and the newly sworn-in public servants.
