By Glenn Rolfe

GEORGETOWN — Sussex County government is sticking with the old guard but with an eye on developing new leaders.

A familiar face will continue to lead County Council for 2022, as Michael H. Vincent was selected to serve as its president for the 12th consecutive year.

During the entity’s annual reorganization Tuesday, Councilman Vincent, a Republican who represents District 1, received support from his colleagues to remain as president with a 4-1 vote. District 3 Republican Councilwoman Cindy Green cast the opposing vote.

Councilman Vincent was elected to council in 2008.

The role of vice president for 2022 will be held by Douglas Hudson. He follows John Rieley, who served in the role last year.

Both Councilmen Rieley and Hudson were elected in 2018. Councilwoman Green and Mark Schaeffer joined in 2020.

Backed by Councilman Vincent’s second, Councilman Rieley’s nomination of Councilman Hudson received unanimous support.

“The logic behind this is, a year ago, council found itself in a position that I think is a little unusual, in that we had two members of the council with two years’ experience and two members of council that were newly elected and one member of the council that had 12 years of institutional knowledge and experience,” said Councilman Rieley.

“It seemed to me that it was a good idea to take advantage of that knowledge and experience (and) have Councilman Vincent continue as president. But it also is important to me to develop a bench and that we begin to cultivate leadership among the other members of council.”

Councilman Rieley said he is looking toward the future.

“That is why I was willing to take a year to mentor a little bit under Councilman Vincent. I’d like to see Councilman Hudson take a year and get his feet wet a little bit, with potentially leading the council at some point … and then the other members in their turn, as well. I think it benefits the council to have a breath of experience.”