“We are delighted to welcome Winston Forrest to Goochland,” said Board Secretary Robin Lind. “He has an immensely challenging task ahead as Goochland County faces a 10% increase in population over the next three years, redistricting, the creation of an additional precinct and rapid residential growth in the eastern end.
“We expect his familiarity with the challenges of growth in northern Virginia will serve Goochland voters very well,” said Lind.
“We look forward to working with Mr. Forrest as we continue to offer the highest level of service to the voters of Goochland County,” added Electoral Board Vice Chair Wanda Taylor.
Mr. Forrest was chosen from a large field of applicants who demonstrated in-depth experience and competence in what has become a highly complex job.
As Deputy Registrar Mr. Forrest has served as Elections Communications Coordinator in Prince William County where he was responsible for helping staff 91 precincts and responding to press enquiries during elections. He previously served five years as an Officer of Elections in the City of Manassas.
Mr. Forrest was raised in De Queen, a small town in rural western Arkansas. He has spent the past 20 years in northern Virginia, working in retail, travel and computer industries, before joining the elections office full time.
He will succeed Frances Carter Ragland who retires on January 1, 2018 after serving the voters of Goochland for 32 years. Goochland County voters have long had a reputation for the highest turnout of voters in the Commonwealth.