POINT PLEASANT, W.Va. — After serving Mason County for three decades, Commissioner Rick Handley was defeated by his close friend and former student, John Bradley Sang, in the November 3 election. The vote count read, “Commissioner John Bradley Sang, 4,192; Rick Handley, 2,395,” announced Mason County Clerk Diana Cromley from the courthouse steps.
The two men embraced after the results were announced, emphasizing friendship over competition. Handley told Sang, “Whatever you need from me, let me know. I will, alright. Seriously, I will 100 percent,” underscoring a spirit of cooperation as Sang prepares to take office on Jan. 1.
Handley reflects on three decades of service
Handley, first elected in 1996, expressed pride in his tenure, saying, “I’m proud and honored to have served this county for 30 years… no regrets.” He noted that his decision to leave the commission seat was made in better shape than when he first arrived in 1997.
He attributed part of his loss to national party‑line voting and what he described as misinformation and conspiracies circulating on social media. “Labeling me as a crook, saying I took money under the table for data centers—that hurts my kids. That’s not true,” Handley said, rejecting the accusations and affirming his commitment to the people of Mason County.
Local achievements highlighted
During his tenure, Handley pointed to several accomplishments that he believes have strengthened the county. He cited improvements in rural health care, the successful effort to prevent a state‑imposed toll from affecting Mason County, and the commission’s role in attracting a major steel mill and data‑center projects that could eventually generate 4,000 to 6,000 jobs.
Handley also highlighted increased pay scales for EMTs, law‑enforcement officers, and paramedics, as well as efforts to acquire additional emergency‑response vehicles for the county.
Sang’s plans for the future
John Bradley Sang, a local businessman, expressed gratitude for the support he received and pledged to build on Handley’s work. He said the three‑member commission will continue to focus on job creation, public safety, and infrastructure improvements.
Handley concluded by wishing the new commissioners success, stating, “I think the three commissioners will do a great job when I leave.” The transition marks the end of an era for Mason County and the beginning of a new chapter under Sang’s leadership.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.
