The Thompson-Nicola Regional District Board of Directors has elected Barriere Mayor Bill Humphreys as its new chair.

Humphreys is replacing Randy Murray as TNRD chair. Murray had held the position since 2011.

“There is a lot of strength on the board and I’m looking forward to continuing to work to harness that power,” Humphreys stated in a press release.

Electoral Area B director Willow MacDonald was elected as vice-chair. She will replace Ashcroft director Andy Anderson, who served in that role since 2011 as well.

Willow said she appreciates the confidence the TNRD board has in her.

“I’m looking forward to continuing to bring the electoral areas and the municipalities together at the TNRD level,” MacDonald stated in the press release.

Outgoing chair of the board Randy Murray told the Herald he chose not to run for re-election due to a lack of availability for the time commitment involved as chair. He will remain Area M director until his term is up next November.

Murray said Humphreys is an excellent candidate for the job as chairman.

“It [the board] is in good hands with Bill,” Murray said.

Murray also said Willow is a good pick, noting her involvement with the Yellowhead Highway Association and promotion of tourism in the North Thompson area.

“She’s very engaged. She’ll do a great job as well,” Murray said.

Elections of chair and vice-chair of the TNRD board occur every year.