Last week, Gary Douglas was unanimously elected the new chairman of the Oxford Village Planning Commission following the resignation of John DuVal.

In his Aug. 29 letter of resignation, DuVal explained he was leaving the planning commission because he’s “unable to maintain consistent attendance” at meetings due to “work-related responsibilities.”

Douglas is new to the planning commission. He was appointed in June and has lived in the village for six years.

A transplant from New Mexico, Douglas currently works in the automotive industry. While living in a rural community outside Albuquerque, he spent 10 years serving on the board of directors for a water cooperative.

Following his election, Douglas thanked the commission for placing their confidence in a “rookie.”