Summerville is preparing to transition a familiar face from the Chattooga County education system into city leadership, as veteran educator Jeff Martin is set to be sworn in to the Summerville City Council tomorrow evening.

Martin, who served the local community for over 30 years in education—including a tenure as the popular principal of Chattooga High School—won a special election last Tuesday and will officially join the council during the monthly meeting at Summerville City Hall.

Though a native of Menlo, Martin has been a resident of the City of Summerville for just over a year. His decision to pursue the council seat was announced in July, following the resignation of then-council member Rickey Hughes, who stepped down to run for mayor.

Martin campaigned on a platform emphasizing civic contribution and a desire to transition his dedication to public service from the classroom to municipal governance.

“My desire is to help people and I believe I can make a difference in the lives of local residents as a member of the Summerville City Council,” Martin told WZQZ News when he announced his candidacy. He further stated that running for council was a natural extension of his long-standing commitment to assisting the community.

Voters offered overwhelming support to the former principal, electing Martin with a decisive victory. He secured over 71% of the vote, defeating opponent Lamonica “Nikki” Watkins in the special election.

The swearing-in ceremony will take place at the Summerville City Council meeting scheduled for tomorrow evening, marking the official commencement of Martin’s term in office.