In a move that left many in the audience with a stunned expression on their faces, the Fayette County Commission unanimously elected Jack Smith as chairman.

Smith was elected after Commissioner Eric Maxwell's nomination of Herb Frady did not receive a second. Commissioner Peter Pfeifer nominated Smith and he received a second from Commissioner Robert Horgan.

The vote was unanimous and the rest of the meeting was dominated by a nearly 90 minute executive session. Prior to going into the session to discuss four legal items, Smith said the commission would return from the discussions and take any votes in public.

But when the board reconvened, Smith said the discussions were more of a briefing and no action was taken. Sheriff Randall Johnson stayed for the session, but quickly left the room when no votes were held.