Greenville business owner Johnny Lee has been appointed to the Board of Education's District 5 seat, replacing Joanne Peak who resigned her position in May.

Lee was appointed during a brief ceremony held on Thursday night during the board's regularly scheduled meeting. Board member Joe Lisenby nominated Lee for the position and was seconded by board vice-president Linda Cook-Hamilton. The floor was then closed for all other nominations.

Lee, a 1977 graduate of Greenville High School and owner of Hot Waxx for 17 years, said he was just happy to have been chosen.

&#8220It's going to be a privilege to work with such an elite group,” he said in reference to his fellow board members. &#8220At the same time I understand board members are here to set the policies of our school system and not micromanage our superintendent.”

Lee's district includes Georgiana, where the school system is preparing to break ground on a new $16 million facility for both elementary and high school students.

Lee said the new school is reason for excitement.

&#8220It's a big deal, much needed and way overdue,” he said. &#8220It's going to help the city of Georgiana, especially the kids who attend the school. I'm really looking forward to getting out in the neighborhoods and communities and getting more parental involvement in our school system.”

Superintendent Mike Looney welcomed Lee to the board.

&#8220He's a well respected individual in the community and has a dynamic personality,” said Looney. &#8220I'm looking forward to working with him.”

Lee was one of five candidates for the spot vacated by Peak in May. Also considered were McKenzie graduate and accountant Greg Griffin; former district judge Barry Branum, Vonciel Bedgood, and Aubrey Alan Odom, an Evergreen optometrist.

Board president Billy Jones thanked all of the candidates for their interest in the position.