Matthew Frost wins Morgan County District 3 commissioner seat with 75% of votes

Erica Smith, The Decatur Daily, Ala.
·2 min read

Apr. 17—Challenger Matthew Frost defeated incumbent Don Stisher in the Republican runoff for Morgan County District 3 commissioner Tuesday.

"Thank you to everyone who supported me throughout the race," Frost said. "My intention to run a clean campaign was satisfied today. This has always been a dream of mine, and I look forward to serving my district and county."

With only provisional ballots remaining, Frost received 2,886 votes, or 75%. Stisher received 948 votes, or 25%. There is no Democratic candidate in the November general election.

"I'd like to congratulate Matt. He worked hard and deserves the win," Stisher said. "I'm proud of him and proud for the citizens. They've made a good selection."

Stisher said it has been an honor to serve Morgan County.

"I've tried to serve with respect and dignity throughout my career," he said. "I'm just humbled to have had a nice career."

Stisher said he plans to work with Frost on the projects that are scheduled.

"I want to make a good transition for the people of the county," he said. "They've been good to me, and I've worked hard for them. Time for new management, and that's good, that's healthy."

First-time political candidate Frost, 41, has been a District 3 mechanic/operator for 13 years and graduated from Falkville High School in 2002. While running for office, he legally had to take an unpaid leave of absence. Stisher, 68, graduated from Falkville High School in 1974 and served six terms as District 3 commissioner. He is married to Van Stisher, has one child, and one grandchild.

Stisher received 39% of the vote in the March 5 Republican primary, while Frost received 33%.

There was only a 4.4% voter turnout of registered voters in Tuesday's runoff election.

"I'm glad for the 4% that showed up," Frost said.

The annual salary for the position is $89,465. Morgan County commissioners are elected for four-year terms and commissioner races are countywide elections, although the commissioner must live in the district. District 3 covers most of the southern part of the county and includes 325 miles of roads, most of which are rural. The district includes the towns of Falkville and Eva.

—erica.smith@decaturdaily.com or 256-340-2460.