Doug Cade is going from being heavily involved in public projects to being a public servant.

The Ironton resident was appointed to be acting county engineer last month after long-time officeholder David Lynd announced his retirement.

Cade is expected to be appointed to the position for the rest of the term that expires in 2012 This is a great move that should go a long way toward strengthening the county’s roadways and infrastructure as well as improving the office’s public image that had taken significant hits over the years.

Other than his actual engineering background and expertise in public projects, Cade’s biggest strength lies in his down-to-earth personality and ability to communicate on a variety of levels.

The engineer can talk “technical” when it is needed or he can break down situations in common terms the average citizen — and ultimately the taxpayer — can understand.

This is a no-brainer decision for the Republican Central Committee to move forward with Cade’s appointment.

We are excited to see how he approaches the elected office and what vision he has for keeping the county roads strong.

Outgoing engineer Lynd deserves credit for being a public servant for so many years but Cade will bring a fresh perspective and citizens will get a chance to see a new direction.