The Harnett County Board of Commissioners held a swearing-in ceremony during its December 2, 2024, meeting to welcome one new member and two re-elected members to the Board.

District 5 Commissioner Matthew B. Nicol and District 3 Commissioner William Brooks Matthews were re-elected to serve another term, while Commissioner Duncan Edward Jaggers was sworn in to his first term representing District 4.

William Brooks Matthews, re-elected to represent District 3, has been a member of the Board since 2020. With over 40 years of experience in public education, Matthews currently serves as Superintendent for Harnett County Schools.

“Today, I had the honor of being sworn in for a second term as County Commissioner from district three, serving all citizens of Harnett County.  As a lifelong resident of our county, I am deeply committed to progress while preserving our rich heritage. My priorities include addressing the expanding needs of our community, such as constructing schools, fostering economic development to create well-paying jobs, maintaining low taxes, and ensuring safety for all citizens by backing our law enforcement officers,” said Matthews.

Matthew Nicol, also re-elected, represents District 5. Serving on the Board since 2020, Nicol is the owner of a local real estate agency, Carolina Lakes Lakeside Realty and a veteran of the Unites States Army.

“I am deeply grateful to the Board, staff, and citizens of Harnett County for your continued faith and support. It is an honor to serve as Chairman for the year and represent this county for another four years. I am confident we can achieve great things for our community,” said Nicol.

Duncan Edward Jaggers, newly elected to represent District 4. Jaggers retired from the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office after 30 years of service and previously served on the Harnett County School Board. He serves as a Deacon at this church and is the Electrical and Sales Manager for a prominent HVAC and electrical contractor.

“Today begins my service as a Harnett County Commissioner. Thank you to all for your support and encouragement, especially those of you in District 4. I’m excited for this new adventure and for the future of Harnett County,” said Jaggers.

The Harnett County Board of Commissioners is the governing body of Harnett County who oversee the budget, zoning and planning, promoting growth, and improving the quality of life for citizens.

“Congratulations to our Board members. The swearing-in ceremony marks a new chapter for Harnett County. I look forward to working with the board and building a thriving future for Harnett County residents,” said Brent Trout, County Manager.

The swearing in ceremony can be viewed on the Harnett County Government YouTube Channel, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3b_OcriOa9U

To learn more about the Harnett County Board of Commissioners visit, https://www.harnett.org/boc/

Harnett County is one of the fastest growing counties in North Carolina with approximately 140,000 residents. Harnett's tagline of "Strong Roots, New Growth," describes a county in transition, one that values its rural agricultural heritage while also embracing new growth and industry. Harnett County is optimally located just between North Carolina's capital city of Raleigh and the internationally recognized Research Triangle Park to the north, and the nation's largest military installation in Fort Liberty to the south. 

For more information, contact Community Relations Director, Desiree Patrick at publicinfo@harnett.org or 910-893-7555.