J.C. Henderson officially became the longest-serving commissioner in Newton County history.

Henderson was sworn in to office by Judge Henry Baker at the Nelson Heights Community Center Friday. The center is a big part of Henderson’s passion for his community and constituents of District 4.

Henderson started serving District 4 on the Board of Commissioners in 1997, after taking office in 1996. He begins his 19th year on the BOC Jan. 1, after winning an uncontested general election in November. In July, Henderson effectively won re-election by topping fellow Democrat nominee Sonya Hunte.

Among the many contributions to Newton County, such as Nelson Heights Community Center, parks, football fields and programs, Henderson also serves on the Newton County Recreation Commission board and belongs to the Association of County Commissioners in Georgia.