CAIRO — New appointments to the Tired Creek Lake Authority drew much discussion among the Grady County commissioners Tuesday.  

In split 3-2 vote, the commission appointed Eric Cohen and Steven Childs to the Lake Authority. Chairman Ray Prince and Commissioner June Duke Knight voted against the appointment. 

“I would like to get my own nomination,” Knight said. 

Said Prince: “I would too.” 

The Tired Creek Lake Authority made the recommendation to appoint Cohen and Childs to replace Lee Gainous and Travis Bryant, who are both stepping down March 31. 

Knight wanted to appoint Richard Jordan. Prince sought to appoint Charlie Norton, former commissioner and former Lake Authority member.   

Both Knight and Prince said their desired appointments have been heavily involved and interested in the Tired Creek Lake project. 

“I’d love to,” Jordan, who was in attendance, said of serving on the Lake Authority.

Jordan noted his background as a chief financial officer. 

“I feel like I could be a big asset to move this project forward,” he added. 

Commissioner LaFaye Copeland said the commission should be able to trust the Lake Authority to make appointments and approve the recommendation. 

“We look bad as a board” if the recommendation was not approved, she said.

Vice-Chairman T.D. David also suggested approving the recommendation. 

“I think they’re all equally qualified to hold the position,” David added. 

Prince said he and Knight, along with Commissioner Keith Moye, have not appointed a member to the Lake Authority. David appointed Cairo Messenger editor and publisher Randy Wind. 

The Tired Creek Lake Authority made the appointment recommendation at a recent workshop. 

Reporter Jordan Barela can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1826.