During the past few weeks, public officials were sworn into office in order to serve Pearl River County and its two municipalities.

The new and incumbent officials were elected to their respective positions during the November 2015 election.

Circuit Court Judge Claiborne “Buddy” McDonald was sworn in Friday after running unopposed for the new judgeship in the Fifteenth Circuit Court District. After the ceremony, McDonald promised the community he would do the best he could to abide by the state and federal constitution and serve in the community’s best interest.

All the newly elected officials representing Picayune, Poplarville and Pearl River County have made a promise to carry out their duties in order to ensure the community prospers and grows.

It’s a promise we hope these officials keep for the duration of their time in office.

They not only have the responsibility of serving the county and it’s municipalities, but also their families and friends. Most of these representatives are originally from Pearl River County, growing up right down the street, attending area schools and starting their career as an employee at a local business. But we know that each official will place the needs of the whole community first, rather than solely focusing on the needs of their family and friends.

The fact that officials have such strong roots here means they have an even greater reason to keep their promise and serve their term as best as possible.

As we look to the new year, we hope our officials remember where they came from and keep that in mind as they serve the community. We also hope they are prepared for the obstacles and hardships we will face as a community, in addition to the times of triumph, in order to lead Pearl River County forward.