Staff Reports
Gov. Rick Scott has picked Lt. Col. William “Buck” Burney for the Clay County Board of County Commissioners. Burney will serve during the leave of absence of Commissioner Gavin Rollins for National Guard service, which begins April 7.
“I am confident that Lt. Col. Burney will do a great job for Clay County families while Commissioner Rollins is serving our country with the Florida National Guard,” Scott said in a statement Tuesday. “He has a long career in public service and distinguished career serving in the Air National Guard for 30 years. Ann and I proudly support our military and we wish Commissioner Rollins a swift and successful trip abroad.”
Burney, 62, of Keystone Heights, is president of Mission: On Target and is the state of Florida coordinator for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He served 30 years in the Florida Air National Guard, completing service as Battle Commander for the Southeast United States in 2002.
Burney received a bachelor’s degree from both the Air Force War College and Luther Rice College and Seminary and his master’s degree from Liberty University. He is appointed to the seat held by Rollins, for a term ending at the completion of Rollins’ military leave.
“Lt. Col. Burney has a distinguished record of both military and community service in Clay County,” Rollins said. “He understands the needs of our community and I am thankful he is willing to serve in my absence while serving overseas with the National Guard.”
