Scott Orenstein

VALDOSTA — Republican incumbent Scott Orenstein retained his seat as Lowndes County commissioner for District 2.

According to preliminary numbers from the Georgia Secretary of State’s office, Orenstein defeated Democratic candidate Aaron Strickland.

Orenstein received 70 percent of the vote with 9,941 votes, while Strickland garnered 30 percent of the vote with 4,304 votes.

Orenstein said he appreciates the voters of District 2 and their understanding of the momentum they have generated during the past four years.

“We have a lot of great stuff happening now, and I’m just glad that I’ll be able to see that all come to fruition,” he said. “Proof is found in the work that has been accomplished in a relatively short period of time.”

He said he is passionate about improving county ordinances to better serve the needs of the community, and his priority will remain public safety.

During the past four years, Orenstein said he has worked hard to support the allocation of resources for the sheriff’s office, Lowndes County Fire Rescue, 911 and EMS.

He said county governments must work closely with state and federal officials.

“Lowndes County is blessed with state and federal delegations that work extremely hard for our community,” Orenstein said. “However, they cannot succeed without support. I’m ready to get back to work.”

This will be Orenstein’s second term as District 2 county commissioner.

Election results are expected to be certified Friday.

County Commissioners Mark Wisenbaker and Demarcus Marshall ran unopposed and retained their seats.

Thomas Lynn is a government and education reporter for The Valdosta Daily Times. He can be reached at (229)244-3400 ext. 1256