Former North Carolina Department of Transportation Division Representative G.R. Kindley is “happy and pleased” with Gov. Perdue’s choice of Laurinburg businessman David Burns to replace him on its board.

Kindley explained Thursday he has known Burns for more than 25 years, and worked with him during secondary road meetings with the NC DOT board when Burns served as Scotland County Commission chair.

“I think it is an excellent appointment,” Kindley said. “He’s a good, good person, and a person of integrity. I am confident that he is the type of person who will be a representative all of the eight counties in the division.”

Burns will represent Scotland, Chatham, Hoke, Lee, Moore, Montgomery, Randolph and Richmond counties for the next four years.

Burns said he grew up in Moore County and works in Scotland County and is involved in farming, banking and other occupations.

“The business climate I’m involved with means I have ties in Richmond and Montgomery counties, as well,” Burns said.

The vacancy Burns filled on the board was created when Kindley asked Gov. Perdue to replace him after 16 years on the panel.

A section of the U.S. 74 Bypass in Richmond County is named in honor of Kindley, a former Rockingham mayor.