The annual Sussex County swearing-in ceremony was a little longer than usual with five elected officials taking the oath of office prior to the Jan. 6 county council meeting.

Before a room filled with family and friends, Republican George Cole was sworn in for his eighth term as District 4 councilman. The seat has never left the Cole family; his father and later his mother held the post prior to his election in 1986.

In addition, newcomer Republican Rob Arlett of Frankford was sworn in as District 5 council member, the first change to that seat in 16 years. Arlett defeated incumbent Vance Phillips in the Republican Primary and then went on to defeat Democrat Bob Wheatley in the general election.

Also sworn in was newly elected Sussex County Sheriff Robert T. Lee who defeated incumbent Jeff Christopher. Recorder of Deeds Scott Dailey and Register of Wills Cindy Green were sworn for their second terms. All three row officers are Republicans.

Vincent, Wilson will lead council

As prescribed by state law, at its first meeting of the New Year, council selected Councilman Mike Vincent, R-Seaford, as president for the fifth year in a row and also reelected Councilman Sam Wilson, R-Georgetown, to remain as vice president.

Council also approved J. Everett Moore as county attorney. The law firm of Moore & Rutt will represent the county's board of adjustment and the law firm of Griffin and Robertson will represent the county's planning and zoning commission with staff from those firms serving as assistant county attorneys.