HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — Mac McCutcheon, the former Speaker of the Alabama House of Representatives, is the new chairman of the Madison County Commission, according to a new declaration from Governor Kay Ivey.

In a letter addressed to McCutcheon, Ivey said, “I have made honesty and integrity a priority in my administration, and I know that you will embody these two virtues while serving the people of Alabama.”

“Speaker McCutcheon, who I have worked with for many years, is a proven leader, well-equipped to take the helm at the Madison County Commission, and I am proud to appoint him,” Ivey said. “I know the people in that area are thrilled to have Mac continue serving Madison County. I am confident this part of our state will keep thriving thanks to the good work by all who serve on the Commission.”

McCutcheon takes over the chairmanship from Rep. Dale Strong, a Republican who was elected to Congress last November.

Prior to his appointment as Madison County Commission Chairman, McCutcheon served for six years as House Speaker and 16 total years in the legislature.

In an interview with News 19, McCutcheon said he wasn’t sure if taking on another big role was in his plans after he retired from the legislature, but after some thought he decided “it became a very good fit.”

“I’m really excited to be here, I really am” he said. “I’m looking forward to getting out in the county, going to each district and talking to the people, seeing some old friends that I haven’t been able to visit with in awhile and just spend time with people here in the county.”

McCutcheon said he wants to take a good look at the budget and work on infrastructure.

He attended Wednesday’s County Commission meeting, however since he hadn’t been sworn in yet, he opted to sit to the side and observe.

McCutcheon tells News 19 he expects to be sworn in on Thursday.

The Madison County Commission meets on the first and third Wednesdays of each month. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 1 at 10 a.m.