BELHAVEN — The Belhaven Board of Aldermen appointed Yvonne DeRuiz to fill the latest vacancy at a meeting Friday.

Samuel “Tony” Williams submitted his letter of resignation after more than two years into his four-year term.

The board voted unanimously to bring DeRuiz on board. Alderman Ricky Credle was not present at Friday’s meeting.

Williams said he made his decision because his personal and business life has become too time-consuming for him to also juggle a spot as an alderman. He said he thinks it was the best decision for him and the Town at this time.

At Friday’s meeting, Mayor Adam O’Neal spoke positively about Williams and said he served the town well during his time on the board.

“I was really unable to devote the time I felt was necessary,” Williams said. “I had to make a choice (of) which direction is best for me.”

In the event of a board vacancy, the Belhaven Board of Aldermen reserves the right to appoint a new alderman. DeRuiz is the second new appointment this year, following Alderman Steve Carawan, who took the spot left vacant by Dr. Charles Boyette’s death in March.

Yvonne DeRuiz is the owner of Bellport Inn Bed and Breakfast on East Main Street in Belhaven. A Belhaven native, DeRuiz traveled the world as part of her work with the United States Department of State’s Foreign Services, and decided to return to Belhaven for retirement. She purchased the 1920s Main Street property in 2009.

DeRuiz was not immediately available for comment on Monday.