Democrats name Mabe to replace Franklin on school board

Brad Mabe has been named by the Alleghany Democrat Party to fulfill the term of Mitch Franklin, who resigned from the board earlier this month.

Mabe was a candidate for the position in 2008, having come in third in a close election for two open seats on the board to current board members Faron Atwood and Steven Williams.

Franklin, who had been elected as a board member of the Alleghany County Board of Education in November 2006, cited personal reasons in his announcement that he had stepped down.

He also noted that he "felt it would placing the board in an awkward position as he explores opportunities of employment through the school system." Coincidentally, Franklin was approved to serve as a substitute in all Alleghany County Schools following the March 4 board meeting.

During a phone interview last week, Franklin commented, "It's been an honor and privilege to serve the people, especially the kids, of Alleghany County, and I appreciate the support I've received."

Of the school board, Franklin stated, "It's been a great board to work with…It takes everybody's help to get something done and that includes the school system, the (school) board and county commissioners."

Of Franklin's service to the school board, Superintendent Jeff Cox offered, "We are going to miss him on the board," noting Franklin has made "valuable contributions over the years." He continued, "He's really added a lot of value to our board—particularly with his insight on some of our construction projects. We appreciate his contribution and he will certainly be missed."

Cecil Brooks, who serves as the chairman of the Alleghany Democrat Party, of which Franklin is part, said a meeting was held Monday night to discuss Franklin's replacement. He said the party was notified in a letter written by Fred Johnson, who serves as the school board's counsel.

The executive committee of the Alleghany County Democrat Party recommended Mabe to fill the vacancy. That committee is made up of numerous local representatives, including the remaining three Democrats on the school board.

Mabe's nomination will be presented to the school board for its approval during its next meeting, scheduled for April 7 at 5 p.m. at the Board of Education's central office on Peachtree Street.