WARREN — Newly elected Trumbull County Commissioner Rick Hernandez was named president of the county board on Monday, with former president Denny Malloy taking the role of vice president.

Also making his debut at the reorganizational meeting was Tony Bernard, who defeated Mauro Cantalamessa in the November election. Hernandez won his seat, which previously was occupied by Niki Frenchko, over former commissioner Dan Polivka. The entire board is now Republicans.

The entire session was conducted in just 30 minutes. The meeting began with a moment of silence for former President Jimmy Carter, who died Dec. 29, followed by President Joe Biden’s directive for flags to be flown at half-staff for 30 days in his memory.

During the meeting, Malloy expressed optimism about the county’s future under new leadership.

Malloy said, “It’s a bright fresh new day here in Trumbull County and I wish everybody the best of luck. We’re going to see progress in Trumbull County and strive for better tomorrows at each meeting. Both of the new commissioners have a strong pedigree of public service and a deep love for their community. I’m excited to see them take the reins, and I pledge to assist them in any endeavors we undertake.”

Hernandez said, “You’re going to see a much different board here, and it’ll start today. We’ve had some dark times in the county, but the sun will start shining here in this room. It’s a pleasure and an honor to be elected president of this board.”

Bernard added, “I think you’re going to find that this board may not always agree, but when we disagree, we’re going to do it respectfully and hopefully, we can move things ahead and do a lot of good things for the people of Trumbull County. I’m looking forward to it.”

Commissioners accepted a withdrawal of a petition filed by Natalie N. Rothenbuecher, on behalf of Life Storage LP, for the annexation of approximately 7.95 acres of land from Howland into Warren.

The storage rental property is located between the Trumbull Metropolitan Housing Authority and an Enterprise Car Rental on Youngstown Warren Road. Malloy said he was unaware of the specifics regarding the petitioner’s plans and reasoning for withdrawing it.

During the session, the commissioners also approved a Class D2 liquor license for Chuck E. Cheese on Niles-Cortland Road, allowing the establishment to serve beer and wine. Malloy joked, “When did Chuck E. Cheese start serving liquor? There’s moms all over the Valley very happy right now that there’s wine on the menu at Chuck-E-Cheese.” Bernard noted, “It’ll enhance their business, I’m sure.”

The next regular meeting is scheduled at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday.