VIDALIA, La. – Guylyn Boles, a longtime Vidalia resident and community volunteer, was appointed Wednesday to fill the unexpired term of Alderman Bill Murray.

The Board of Aldermen made its appointment in a special meeting called for 6 p.m. Wednesday.

The appointment had to be made by Thursday, according to the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Office.

&uot;This is quite a humbling experience,&uot; said Boles, a resident of Vidalia since 1956. &uot;I respect the good jobs (the other aldermen) have done, and I&160;hope I can find a place to be useful.&uot;

&uot;Mrs. Boles has been a leader in community activities, including her work with senior citizens and as vice president of the Vidalia Chamber of Commerce,&uot; said Mayor Hyram Copeland, explaining reasons why he approached Boles Tuesday about accepting the position.

Boles was appointed with the stipulation that she would not run for the post during a special election to be held next year to permanently fill Murray’s post.

That primary election will be held April 7, with a general election to be held May 5, according to Copeland.

Late last month, Murray announced that he would resign from his post as alderman and mayor pro-tem in order to build up his business so he can run for mayor in four years.

Murray, who was present at Wednesday’s brief meeting, had no immediate comment but said he will release a statement at a later date. Murray served as alderman for eight years.