PERRY -- Leaders of the Houston County Board of Education were re-elected Tuesday during its regular meeting, and Superintendent Robin Hines’ contract was renewed.

Board members unanimously voted to re-elect Tom Walmer as board chairman and Marianne Melnick as vice chairwoman for 2013.

“You’ve heard the phrase, ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,’ ” board member Fred Wilson said. “Well, it isn’t broke.”

Board members also unanimously approved a three-year contract for Hines, which will go into effect June 1. The current contract for Hines, who is in his third year as superintendent, ends May 31. His salary will remain at $194,000 annually.

“Dr. Hines is a great part of this leadership team and really works hard to make this (school system) as successful as it is,” board member Skip Dawkins said.

Tuesday’s meeting was the first for new board member Dave McMahan, who took the seat vacated by Toby Hill. McMahan, a former Houston County teacher and administrator in the maintenance and facilities departments, said he is approachable and wants to listen to all concerns and comments.

“I am honored to follow Dr. Toby Hill in this seat,” he said. “I am here to serve.”

Board members also approved the purchase of two vans for school nutrition. The vans, which will transport food carts to district locations without working kitchens, will cost a total of about $50,000.

To contact writer Jenna Mink, call 256-9751.