Gov. Robert Bentley has appointed State Rep. Jeremy Oden, R-Eva, to the Alabama Public Service Commission effective Mon., Dec. 3.

Since 1998, Oden has served as state representative for House District 11, covering portions of Cullman, Blount and Morgan Counties. Oden will resign from his District 11 seat prior to assuming his new role.

“He will represent the needs of consumers in a fair and responsible manner,” Bentley said. “People across the state will benefit from his service on the commission.”

Oden’s appointment as a commissioner fills the vacancy created by the Nov. 6 election of Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh to the presidency of the Public Service Commission. Oden will complete the two years remaining on Cavanaugh’s commissioner term.

“It has been an honor to serve the people of District 11 for the past 14 years,” Oden said. “I thank them for their support, and I look forward to continuing to serve them in this statewide office.

“I also want to thank Gov. Bentley for the confidence he has in me to serve in this new role. I look forward to serving all the people of Alabama and protecting their interests on the Public Service Commission.”

Oden has served as a branch manager and vice president for Eva Bank in Cullman County. He is also an ordained minister and served as a business owner for several years.

Bentley will call a special election to fill the District 11 seat in the House of Representatives. An election timeline will be announced as soon as it is finalized.