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By MACKENZEE SIMMS | Staff Writer

After almost 16 years of service on the Shelby County Commission, Rick Shepherd was re-elected to the Shelby County Commission’s District 8 seat on Tuesday, Nov. 5 for his fifth term.

According to unofficial election results as of Wednesday morning, the incumbent Shepherd received 10,793 votes (77.83 percent), surpassing Democratic candidate Jenice Prather-Kinsey who received 3,059 votes.

After first being elected in 2008, Shepherd has served on the Shelby County Commission for four terms totaling 16 years. The victory in this year’s election will provide Shepherd with a fifth term.

The Shelby County Commission is a nine-member board that handles tasks such as annually approving the budget, selects county managers and attorneys, examines the monthly check register for government and proprietary funds and considers alcohol permits and licenses.

According to his campaign Facebook page, Shepherd has built his platform around “conservative values, community growth and fiscal responsibility.”

Originally from Troy, Shepherd spent 25 years serving the United States Army and National Guard before retiring as a Sergeant Major and receiving the Army Meritorious Service Medal.

In addition, Shepherd received a Master of Business Administration from Auburn University. Shepherd also holds a green belt level of Six Sigma certification.

In his personal life, Shepherd has been married to his wife, Shannon Shepherd, for 35 years. Together, the couple has two children and one grandson.

Those interested in learning more about Rick Shepherd and his campaign can visit Shepherdteam.net.