Election Guide 2017

ELECTION

GUIDE 2017 A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE WASHINGTON DAILY NEWS

VOTING LOCATIONS AURORA PRECINCT Aurora Community Building 442 Third St. Aurora, N.C. 27806

BELHAVEN PRECINCT John A. Wilkinson Center 144 W. Main St. Belhaven, N.C. 27810

SURRY-BATH PRECINCT Bath Ruritan Building 504 Carteret St. Bath, N.C. 27808

WASHINGTON-WARD 1 PRECINCT Redmen’s Lodge 403 E. Third St. Washington, N.C. 27889

CHOCOWINITY PRECINCT Chocowinity Fire Department 512 N.C. Highway 33 East Chocowinity, N.C. 27817

PANTEGO PRECINCT

WASHINGTON-WARD 2 PRECINCT Washington Fire Department 410 N. Market St. Washington, N.C. 27889

Pantego Municipal Building 142 Swamp Road Pantego, N.C. 27860

P.S. JONES-WASHINGTONWARD 3 PRECINCT Beaufort County Boys & Girls Club 1089 Bridge St. Washington, N.C. 27889

WASHINGTON-WARD 4 PRECINCT Bobby Andrews Recreation Center 231 E. Seventh St. Washington, N.C. 27889

WASHINGTON PARK PRECINCT Washington Park Municipal Building 408 Fairview Ave. Washington, N.C. 27889

CONTENTS

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AURORA 2 BATH 2 BELHAVEN 3 CHOCOWINITY 4 PANTEGO 5 WASHINGTON 6 WASHINGTON PARK 9 SAMPLE BALLOTS 10

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AURORA MAYOR

ABOUT THE AURORA ELECTIONS The Town of Aurora will be holding elections for two Town of Aurora Board of Commissioner positions, as well as mayor. The governing body of the town consists of a mayor and four commissioners who serve four-year staggered terms.

The candidates must reside within the town limits of Aurora. They are responsible for overseeing a range of town functions, including street maintenance, lighting, drainage, refuse collection and infrastructure such as the water and sewer utility and public safety. They are also responsible for determining the property tax rate for the municipality.

CLIF WILLIAMS

AGE: 62 ADDRESS: Aurora FAMILY: Wife, Kathleen; three sons, Ryan,

Michael, Patrick EDUCATION: Chowan College 1973-1975; Craven Community College PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Williams serves as president and CEO of the following: Aurora Industrial Supplies, Dry Pumps and Environmental Acid Solutions.

He is also on the board of the Aurora Fossil Museum and the board of Beaufort County Economic Development.

QUALIFICATIONS: I’ve been on the board for a total of eight years, four as mayor protem and four as mayor. Among the things that I’ve accomplished while I was mayor, I

have acquired $1,000,000 of real estate for the town. I spent two years working with N.C. Wildlife.

I’ve worked to improve waterfront on the end of Main Street, and I have worked with Duke Power to replace all the lighting in Aurora to LED lighting at no cost to the town. I have raised $45,000 for Aurora Police Department.

I have managed to raise all the funds to replace all the thermopane windows in town hall, the community building and the police station. While I was a member of the board, we kept a balanced budget for four years.

PLATFORM: First of all, we need to create more commerce in this town. That’s been an ongoing job as long as I’ve been on this board. I am going to continue to strive in that.

If we bring commerce, we can create jobs.

I’d like to see the Aurora Fossil Museum expand, as well as improve downtown and I’m working on something right now to be able to do that. I will continue to try to lead this board in the best way possible and lead them in the direction to better this community. I’ve been fortunate to have many friends in the local government as well as state government, and I hope to continue those friendships.

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PATRICIA BRAGG

Attempts to contact Patricia Bragg for participation in the Election Guide were unsuccessful.

RALEIGH B. LEE

JEFF PEED

Attempts to contact Raleigh B. Lee for participation in the Election Guide were unsuccessful.

Attempts to contact Jeff Peed for participation in the Election Guide were unsuccessful.

BATH ABOUT THE BATH ELECTIONS

The Town of Bath will host elections two seats for Bath Town Commissioners.

The Town of Bath Mayor and the Town Board of Commissioners serve in a staggered four-year rotational system.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 1) Creating the general fund budget and establishing the ad valorem tax rate as well as adopting the various rate structures for municipal services in the enterprise fund. 2) Appoint members to the advisory boards such as the Historic District Committee, Planning Board and Board of Adjustments and working with these boards to update and amend Zoning Ordinances, Subdivision Regulations and Historic District Guidelines as needed. 3) Cooperate with various volunteer groups and service agencies to enhance the quality of life in the Bath community; receive input and address the needs of the citizens of the community.

In the Town of Bath, elected officials are required to meet the qualifications for elective office found in 160A-59 of the Town Constitution. It states all city officers elected by the people shall possess the qualifications set out in Article VI of the Constitution. In addition, when the city is divided into electoral districts for the purpose of electing members of the council, council mem-

bers shall reside in the district they represent. When any elected city officer ceases to meet all of the qualifications for holding office pursuant to the Constitution, or when a council member ceases to reside in an electoral district that he was elected to represent, the office is ipso facto vacant. According to Article VI, Section 6, every qualified voter in North Carolina, who is 21 years of age, except as in this Constitution disqualified, shall be eligible for election by the people to office. According to Section 8, the following persons shall be disqualified for office: 1) Any person who shall deny the being of Almighty God; 2) With respect to any office that is filled by election by the people, any person who is not qualified to vote in an election for that office; 3) Any person who has been adjudged guilty of treason or any other felony against the State of North Carolina or the United States, or any person who has been adjudge guilty of a felony in another state that also would be a felony if it had been committed in this state, or any person who has been adjudged guilty of corruption or malpractice in any office, or any person who has been removed by impeachment from any office, and who has not been restored to the rights of citizenship in the manner prescribed by law.

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BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PATRICIA CLARK DUFFER

AGE: 59 ADDRESS: 111 Heron Lane, Bath FAMILY: Husband, David Lee Duffer and daughter, Brandee Woolard EDUCATION: B.S., business administration/ accounting, East Carolina University, 1980 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Duffer spent 37 years working in accounting in the industries of First Citizens Bank, Walter Kidde Fire Extinguishing Systems, Austin Quality Foods Bakery, GSK Pharmaceuticals and DSM Pharmaceuticals. She is currently working in Washington at AAF Flanders, where she has been for the past three years.

QUALIFICATIONS: I grew up in the town of Bath and went to school at Bath. I feel

my background in business and accounting uniquely qualifies me to support the oversight of the budget, town development and laws that are impacting our community.

PLATFORM: Bath is a very naturally beautiful place and has attracted a considerable number of retirees. My constituents I feel need services and infrastructure that will support them in retirement, as well as continually provide opportunities for younger people who wish to live in the area. We need to find that balance to maintain the “Bath Life” quality and be flexible when opportunities exist that will further enhance our community, especially in the areas of health care and business development.

DAVID C. JOHNSON

Attempts to contact David C. Johnson for participation in the Election Guide were unsuccessful.

3B • Wednesday, October 18, 2017 www.TheWashingtonDailyNews.com

BELHAVEN MAYOR

ABOUT THE BELHAVEN ELECTIONS

ARTHUR BONNER

The Town of Belhaven will host elections for the mayor of Belhaven and three seats on the Belhaven Board of Aldermen.

Members of the Board of Aldermen shall serve for terms of four years, and the mayor serves for a term of two years, beginning the day and hour of the organizational meeting following their elections, as established by ordinance in accordance with the Town of Belhaven Charter, provided, they shall serve until their successors are elected and qualified. Candidates must be a resident and a qualified voter of the town. The mayor shall be the official head of the town government and shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Aldermen. Where there is an equal division on a question, or upon the appointment of officers, the mayor shall determine the matter by his vote, but he shall vote in no other case. The mayor shall exercise such powers and perform such duties as are or may be conferred upon him by the general laws of North Carolina, by the Town of Belhaven Charter and by the ordinances of the town. The Board of Aldermen shall choose one of its number to act as mayor pro tempore, and he shall perform the duties of the mayor in the mayor’s absence or disability. He, as such, shall have no fixed term of office, but shall serve in such capacity at the pleasure of the remaining members of the board.

The Board of Aldermen shall fix suitable times for its regular meetings, which shall be as often as once monthly. Special meetings may be held on the call of the mayor or a majority of the board, and those not joining in the call shall be notified in writing. Any business may be transacted at a special meeting.

Arthur Bonner declined to participate in the 2017 Election Guide.

RICKY CREDLE AGE: 44 ADDRESS: 262 George St., Belhaven FAMILY: Wife, Onika Credle; four sons, Memphis, Kanyon, Davon and Rashem; one daughter, Shaiana EDUCATION: Northside High School, 1991; Associate degree, accounting and business administration, Beaufort County Community College, 2004; Institute for Leaders, 2003 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Credle worked for the Town of Belhaven as an

accounting tech from August 2012 to May 2014, and is also the owner of Tender Touch Mobile Detailing.

QUALIFICATIONS: I am a current alderman with the Town of Belhaven. I have learned a lot about how the town operates and what it takes to run the town effectively and efficiently.

Also, I have past experience with the Town of Belhaven as an employee, and I can use that experience moving forward.

PLATFORM: I always put God first. I am

focused on what matters most, Belhaven and its people. I have no doubt that we can come together and restore pride back to our town, while working to create better economic opportunities for everyone. We need jobs, accommodating youth to the retired. Jobs will help our tax base, as well as build our economy to make it once again as strong as it has been in the past.

Working together, we will make Belhaven a great place for kids to not only grow but also achieve their full potential.

EDITH C. GUY

AGE: 69 ADDRESS: 690 E. Main St., Belhaven FAMILY: Husband, Nelson Guy; son, Gregory Guy and wife Becky; daughter, Melisa Guy Thompson and husband Scott; six grandchildren, Sydney, Timothy, Camden, Zoe, Lanie and David EDUCATION: Winter Haven High School, Winter Haven, Florida, 1966; B.S., Polk

College, 1974 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Guy taught first grade and kindergarten at Pungo Christian Academy from 1975 to 1977, taught at Lake Shipp Elementary School in Winter Haven, Florida, from 1978 to 1984, and returned to Pungo Christian Academy in 1985.

Guy worked in Dr. Tom Vicars’ dental office from 1986 to 1989. She was the office manager at Belhaven Family Practice, under Dr. Gregory L. Jones, from 1989 until retirement in December 2013. She now works part-time for Coastal Family Practice in Belhaven.

QUALIFICATIONS: I am active in my church, Belhaven Missionary Baptist Church, where I have worked on and chaired many committees. I was an office manager for a medical office from 1989 until 2013. While working as an office

manager, I gained many skills in leadership and dealing with employees, as well as the public, which should serve me well as mayor.

My husband Nelson was mayor of Belhaven in the early 1990s and has also served on the town council.

I have performed in plays with Way Off Broadway Players, which put me in front of the public.

PLATFORM: Belhaven is very special to me since moving here in 1984. The citizens have always shown me a kind welcome and have offered friendship. My desire to be mayor of Belhaven is that I can help the people of our town to learn from our past and use that knowledge to build a more united town for the future.

We are in a very exciting time. You only have to walk down the sidewalk and see all the cars parked on Main and Pamlico

streets to know Belhaven is on the move.

The small businesses, the restaurants and the boats parked at the marinas are all positive things for our citizens. My hope is to sell Belhaven as a “small town with a big heart,” one that welcomes newcomers and hopes they will make this their home.

You hear that Belhaven has lost so much (which we have), but I want us to promote the gains we have made and show we are a small town on the move and want others to jump on board.

My goals are to represent all citizens of Belhaven and to give them a voice that is positive and encouraging. I will work with the town council and town manager to promote Belhaven as a united community, promote small business, promote our waterway and promote our recreation department.

ELOLA MOORE

AGE: 59 ADDRESS: 802 Pamlico St., Belhaven FAMILY: Husband, Melvin; stepson, Malik Clark, and son, Samuel Hurlston and wife Amanda; two grandchildren, Gabriel and Rome EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree, business administration and accounting, Dowling College, Oakdale, New York; master’s degree, information technology, East Carolina University

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Moore began her career as a teacher and coordinator of at-risk programs in Brooklyn, New York, from 1982-1990. She then became a part-time instructor and admissions counselor at Martin Community College for four years, as well as an instructor at Pitt Community College for two years and Halifax County Schools for one year.

Moore also worked as the coordinator/assistant director of minority recruitment at East Carolina, and director of continuing education programs at Rocky Mount O.I.C. From 2005-2012, Moore worked as a business education teacher at Hertford County Middle School, and starting in 2012, took a job teaching at Plymouth High School.

QUALIFICATIONS: Looking at the qualifications, as listed in the Election Manual, anyone could run and become mayor, but is “anyone” what Belhaven needs for mayor? These are the kinds of loose policy oversights that are placing elected officials

in place, based on popularity, rather than related, transferable skills.

I am a transition developer. As a transition developer, working and negotiating with various entities, developing criterions for growth in stagnant circumstances, respecting the voice of the constituents and considering the long-range effect of each decision is what I do best.

I am ready to invest in and build on the foundation that has already been laid.

PLATFORM: Self-sufficiency, enhanced customer service and economic development are the areas I deem pressing.

Self-sufficiency: Self-sufficiency is the main focus of my campaign ambition. Our town has huge opportunities for growth in all areas. I believe, “God truly blesses the child that has its own.” I would not only like to help us become more self-sufficient as a town, but assist in efforts to bring employment to our citizens in more capacities than we are currently experiencing.

We have valuable human capital, wasting, while services are outsourced, causing inflated prices for our citizens. I believe we can do better.

Enhanced customer service: The population of our town is growing and changing, and this is an exciting time to be a leader in this town. Enhancing customer services for the elderly and our youth are a growing concern for me. I would like to see more emphasis put on the needs of these groups. Our elders are a part of our foundation and should enjoy the best this town has to offer. Likewise, our youth represent the best of our future. Again, we can do better.

Economic development: None of the above can be accomplished without concentrated efforts to grow our economy.

We need to seek businesses that we can entice to our area. It appears we are moving, slowly, in this direction, but again, we can do better!

GREG SATTERTHWAITE

AGE: 61 ADDRESS: 222 George St., Belhaven FAMILY: Three adult daughters EDUCATION: High school diploma, Brooklyn, New York; Antelope Valley Community College, Palmdale, California; leadership/management and electronic techni-

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cian courses, U.S. Air Force; ISP technical training courses, Raleigh PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Satterthwaite worked as a cryptographer for eight years in the United States Air Force.

He was a project engineer for IT services at ABS in Houston, Texas, and a project manager at Alcatel in Houston.

Satterthwaite was general manager at New East Telephony Inc. in Belhaven for six years, and worked as a manager at Riddick & Windley/ACE Hardware for four years. He is also a project manager at White Plains Ministries in Belhaven, and currently teaches business and financial strategies across the country.

QUALIFICATIONS: I’ve served as a West End alderman in Belhaven for the past four years. I’ve served on the Beaufort County

Board of Social Services for the past five years, as director of the Belhaven Community Chamber of Commerce for three years and on the transportation committee with the Mid-East Commission for two years.

For 10 years, I have been a member of the Belhaven Volunteer Fire Department and served as chairman on the Belhaven Board of Adjustments for three years.

I’m also involved with the Belhaven Boys & Girls Club, the Fourth of July committee, community relations committee, Belhaven Arts Council, Totsland Preschool, White Plains Church Ministries and the Team Coalition Christian organization.

PLATFORM: My mother, a very wise Belhaven lady, Mable Satterthwaite, raised me to serve God, my country, my

family and my community. Due to these values, I have gained the knowledge, experience, necessary skills and passion to serve my town capably. I cannot promise to fix all our problems, but as your mayor, I can promise to build a better Belhaven. I call on all lovers of Belhaven to put aside differences, think of the whole, not just the parts, and help us make positive changes. Our nation is divided, but Belhaven does not have to be. Things have been difficult for our community, but as the father of President John F. Kennedy said, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going!”

It is time, my fellow citizens, to build a better, undivided Belhaven. I humbly ask for your vote for mayor on Nov. 7. May God bless all of us. Thank you.

4B • Wednesday, October 18, 2017 www.TheWashingtonDailyNews.com

BELHAVEN ALDERMAN MARY FORBES COX AGE: 58 ADDRESS: 489 E. Water St., Belhaven FAMILY: Husband, Victor Lee Cox; daughters, Rebecca Cox Spencer and husband Daniel and Hannah Cox Spence; two grandchildren, Ella and Landon EDUCATION: B.S., education of the hearing impaired, Atlantic Christian College; master’s degree, education, East Carolina University; National Board Certification, early childhood education.

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Cox has been an educator for 35 years in both public and private school settings. This includes first through

sixth grades. She has served on numerous committees, as well as joined professional leadership conferences for increasing the quality of education in North Carolina.

QUALIFICATIONS: As an educator, I have taken on a leadership role for many years. With this, I have served on several committees and school improvement teams to improve all aspects of education. I am a member of several professional, teaching leadership programs that also focus on the issues of education in North Carolina.

Within my years of teaching, I was awarded Teacher of the Year at Belhaven Elementary School in Beaufort County and Manteo Elemen-

tary School in Dare County. I am also a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Belhaven.

PLATFORM: If elected to the town council for East End, I would focus my efforts on the ideals of “unity” and “fairness” for the citizens of Belhaven. In doing so, I would work in a positive and civil manner with other members of the council for the betterment of Belhaven and surrounding communities. If elected, I would encourage economic growth and increase strength in our financial leadership. As an educator, I would also strive to promote additional programs for the youth of Belhaven to increase character and leadership skills.

RICKY N. RADCLIFFE AGE: 59 ADDRESS: 384 Tooley St., Belhaven FAMILY: Wife, Donna Radcliffe; son, Reid and stepson, Elton Braddy; grandchildren, Macy, Madison, Hunter and Tyler EDUCATION: John A. Wilkinson High School, Belhaven, 1976 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: In starting in the marine business at 13 years old as a mechanic, Radcliffe has been dealing with customers a long time. Customer relations means a lot to running a successful business, and he knows

how to treat people, listen to their complaints and do the right thing to fix the problem.

QUALIFICATIONS: In starting in the marine business at 13 years old as a mechanic, I have been dealing with customers a long time.

Customer relations means a lot to running a successful business, and I know how to treat people, listen to their complaints and do the right thing to fix the problem.

PLATFORM: I have watched and attended several town meetings in the past, and after watching them, I think I can bring a lot to our

town council and town and citizens. I want to be proactive thinking about the future of our town, think long range about where we are going to be at 10 to 15 years from now and what we have to do to get there.

Infrastructure of our town is very important.

Also, I want to work hard to combat downtown flooding. I want to work hard on bringing the businesses into our town to create jobs and also help our town and county tax base. I want to work hard to reunite our town for a brighter future.

JAY WILKINS YVONNE EVANS DERUIZ AGE: N/A ADDRESS: 723 E. Main St., Belhaven FAMILY: N/A EDUCATION: N/A PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: N/A QUALIFICATIONS: My name will be listed as a candidate for the Belhaven East End alderman seat. I do not wish to be considered a candidate in this election.

PLATFORM: Voters should not consider me a candidate for a Belhaven East End alderman when casting their ballot. I am not a candidate for this seat.

Attempts to contact Jay Wilkins for participation in the 2017 Election Guide were unsuccessful.

CHOCOWINITY ABOUT THE CHOCOWINITY ELECTIONS

MAYOR JOHN C. JENKINS JR. (CURT JENKINS)

The Town of Chocowinity is holding elections for two seats on the Town of Chocowinity Board of Commissioners. Candidates for commissioner must reside within the town limits and must be able to attend monthly meetings held on the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. or any called meetings as deemed necessary. Responsibilities of a commissioner generally involve determining town government and administration policies, as well as approving and adopting the operating budget for the town.

AGE: 29 ADDRESS: 22 Hwy 33 W. Chocowinity FAMILY: John C. Jenkins Sr., father; Cecilia Wayne, mother; John C. Jenkins III(L.C.), son EDUCATION: D.H. Conley High School;

Small business and individual income tax courses, BCCC; N.C. Unlimited General Contractors License; NASE Level One Certified Coating Inspector; NCCCO Certification PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Jenkins worked 15 years with O.B.I. Linings Inc., and five years as vice president. He started 15 years ago as a helper. He has been on the town board of Chocowinity for the last two years. He has worked hand in hand with the BCPAL program to erect a new building in Washington as a summer program for kids to work with law enforcement, flight training and boating skills with the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves.

QUALIFICATIONS: Over the past eight years at O.B.I., I have created 20 full-time jobs alone just in the small company. I work

with people from all over the United States in many different positions to maximize work progress and ensure customer satisfaction in our industry, along with many tasks covered at work from budgeting to housekeeping. I am also a family man, enjoy sports, hunting and fishing with my 8-yearold son L.C. I enjoy teaching the youth how to appreciate teamwork and how to live off the land and protect the world we call home.

PLATFORM: My main goal is to be a voice for the people of the town of Chocowinity, the place I am proud to call my home.

I want to push for a better organization and communication in our town, which will help us strive together; push to save the town money by working hand in hand to

lower bills the town has to pay; and work to raise funds to make improvements in our humble town including beautification (sidewalks, park improvements). Over the past few months I have met a lot of great people in our town, and as mayor, there will be no voice left unheard. All issues that have been spoken about can be resolved from water and sewer, to trash and drainage. Setting goals and goal tracking is one big part of making sure we keep on track to build our humble town. As mayor, I will make sure there is a clear plan of action and that we push to meet our goals. As a town, we thrive off the people in the town.

We, the people, are the town’s customers, and without the people, the town would be nothing.

JIMMY MOBLEY

ADDRESS: 159 N.C. Highway 33 East, Chocowinity FAMILY: Judy Mobley, wife; Margaret Mobley Elks, mother; Sherri and Tony Cox, daughter and son-in-law; Matt and Dana Tyndall, grandson and wife; Karen and Jaxon Tyndall, great grandsons EDUCATION: Chocowinity High School 1966; Kendall Lee Memorial Award- 1998 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: In

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2000, Mobley was appointed to the N.C. State Board of Recreational Therapy. He is on the Bright Futures council at Chocowinity Primary School. He is the past director of Chocowinity Recreation Department, a member of the Committee for Drug Prevention at Chocowinity Middle School, and a past member of the Chocowinity Volunteer Fire Department. He is the business/owner for 50 years of Chocowinity Dry Cleaners.

He has been the mayor of Chocowinity for 20 years and was elected to the Chocowinity town board in 1992.

QUALIFICATIONS: I’ve managed my own business for 50 years. I am instrumental in bringing new businesses: dentist, family medical practice, pharmacy, Food Lion shopping center, veterinarian, fast food restaurants, gas stations and various other businesses. I have worked with Weyerhaeuser beginning in 1993 to develop Cypress Landing, and presently work with Cypress Landing. I act as the liaison between the town

and the general public. I have knowledge of federal, state and local laws. I am instrumental in helping to organize the EMS program.

I have knowledge of zoning practices, work with all department heads and have knowledge of town policies and procedures. I have knowledge of how to run public works and police departments and organizing the town budgets.

PLATFORM: In the past 20 years as the mayor of Chocowintiy, I have had the honor of serving the citizens with an “open door” policy. I respond to citizens’ issues by bringing them before the town board where we can review and discuss them for the best interest for the citizens of the town.

As mayor, I will continue to strive to keep our tax rate down by operating efficiently and spending our hard-earned tax dollars wisely, as well as obeying all laws and regulations as set forth by the federal, state and local government.

A continued effort is essential to increase

our economic growth. providing the town with the necessary tools and knowledge.

I will continue to seek new businesses to provide employment opportunities while growing our tax base. I have been consistent in our efforts to comply with all necessary permits needed for Bojangles’ and have been in compliance.

Another issue is the Beaufort County jail.

I did not recruit for the new jail to be constructed on the south side of the river, as I prefer economic development. I will continue to call public hearings to listen to the citizens regarding such a project.

Providing services to the citizens of Chocowinity has always been important to me and will remain important. I will continue to bring the highest standards possible from my staff, the elected board and myself.

My career as mayor for the last 20 years has and always will be one of experience, dedication and integrity because Chocowinity is not just any town. It is our home.

5B • Wednesday, October 18, 2017 www.TheWashingtonDailyNews.com

CHOCOWINITY COMMISSIONER ELIZABETH ANGE

LOUISE FURMAN

WILLIAM J. ALBRITTON (BILLY)

AGE: 68 years old ADDRESS: P.O Box 249, Chocowinity Family: Wife, Gray; children, Shana Grieve and husband Kevin Grieve, Will Albritton Education: New Bern High School; Wilmington College Professional: Albritton retired from CP&L Progress

Attempts to contact Elizabeth Ange for participation in the Election Guide were unsuccessful.

Energy after 24 years.

Qualification: I have served five years on the Chocowinity planning board as chairman and a member of Chocowinity town council of approximately 30 years.

Platform: I will continue to serve the people of Chocowinity by keeping the tax rate and utility rates as low as possible.

Attempts to contact Louise Furman for participation in the Election Guide were unsuccessful.

PANTEGO MAYOR STUART RICKS

AGE: 40 ADDRESS: 65 Maple St., Pantego

FAMILY: Wife, Bobbie Jo Ricks; three children, Hunter Sutton, Lauren Kellie Ricks and Marshall Ricks EDUCATION: Associate degree, electronics engineering, Beaufort County Community College, 1997 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Ricks has been owner of Coastal Clearing & Grading Inc. Land Development for the past 13 years. Ricks is a local farmer, having grown up on his family’s farm.

QUALIFICATIONS: I’m a lifelong resident of Pantego and enjoy being a part of this community and knowing the people here. Communica-

tion and respect of each other is important.

Managing my family, a town and my businesses is a constant juggle, but I am very fortunate to have support in all those different areas.

PLATFORM: I’d like to thank the current council members for their efforts and dedication on working together on issues that have risen over the past years. I would like to continue the efforts in restoring and cleaning up our town. A few things I will continue to make improvements and push forward with is cleaning out street ditches, tree trimming and standing water on the highway, which we tirelessly continue to address with the DOT. I look forward to serving our town.

COMMISSIONER MART BENSON AGE: 44 ADDRESS: 157 Maple St., Pantego FAMILY: Wife, Anita Benson; sons, Allen and Brent Benson EDUCATION: B.S., agricultural business management, North Carolina State University, 1995 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Benson worked for the N.C. Crop Improvement Association during his college years, and then upon graduation, he started working for Benson Farms Inc. as a farm manager. Many years later, Benson is now the part owner and operator of Benson and

Russ Inc. He has been on the N.C. Corn Board Association for eight years and is now currently serving on the N.C. Soybean Association. Benson is also a member of Wilkinson Church of Christ.

QUALIFICATIONS: My 15 years of service to the Town of Pantego as a councilman allows me to have historical knowledge that is vital to the progression of the Town of Pantego.

PLATFORM: During my 15 years of service on the council, my one main objective has always been to keep the Town of Pantego a safe small town that its citizens take pride in calling home.

CHAD KEECH

AGE: 46 ADDRESS: 99 Latham St., Pantego FAMILY: Wife, Carolee Keech; four children, Zack Keech, Caden Keech, Carrie Ryan and Nicholas Keech EDUCATION: Underwater welding, BLET, Beaufort County Community College; certified dietary

ABOUT THE PANTEGO ELECTIONS The Town of Pantego will host elections for its mayor and all five seats on its Board of Commissioners.

Candidates for office in Pantego must live within the corporate limits of town. The mayor receives $100 per meeting and commissioners receive $75 per meeting.

Officials must be in attendance of meetings in order to receive payment.

The mayor of Pantego is responsible for presiding at council meetings and calling special meetings of the council. The mayor must vote to break a tie on any issue. He or she must assume all powers and duties enumerated in the General Statutes, as well as any other conferred on him or her by the council. This statute recognizes the mayor as the official head of the city for purposes of serving civil process, and most federal and state agencies extend this same recognition for purposes of official correspondence or actions such as grant awards or enforcement of federal laws and regulations.

Commissioners are authorized to organize and reorganize city government. Except when expressly prevented by other laws, the council can “create, change, abolish and consolidate offices, positions, departments, boards, commissions and agencies…to promote orderly and efficient administration or city affairs…” Except as otherwise provided by law, the government and general management of the city shall be vested in the council.

Confer powers and duties upon mayor pursuant to law.

manager; Advanced Correctional Officer certificate PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Keech has worked at the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, in the food service industry and in probation/parole.

QUALIFICATIONS: N/A PLATFORM: N/A

CHUCK WILLIAMS

ROBERT LILLEY

REID GELDERMAN

Chuck Williams declined to participate in the 2017 Election Guide.

Attempts to contact Robert Lilley for participation in the 2017 Election Guide were unsuccessful.

Reid Gelderman declined to participate in the 2017 Election Guide.

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6B • Wednesday, October 18, 2017 www.TheWashingtonDailyNews.com

WASHINGTON ABOUT THE WASHINGTON ELECTIONS The City of Washington will conduct elections for mayor and all five seats on the city council.

The councilpersons serve a term of two years, or until their successors are elected and qualified. The mayor also serves the city for a term of two years or until his or her successor is elected and qualified.

The mayor shall be the official head of the city government and preside at meetings of the council, shall have the right to vote only when there is an equal division on any question or matter before the council and shall exercise the powers and duties conferred by law or as directed by the council.

The council shall elect one of its members as mayor pro tempore to perform the duties of the mayor during the mayor’s absence or disability, in accordance with general law. He or she shall serve in such capacity until the organizational meeting following the next regular municipal election. Notwithstanding the contrary provisions of G.S. 160A74, a majority of members elected to the council shall constitute a quorum for the conduct of business. Official actions of the council and all votes shall be taken in accordance with the applicable provisions of general law, particularly G.S. 160A-75. Neither the mayor nor any members of the council shall hold any other office or position of trust, profit or honor under the city government.

MAYOR MAC HODGES

AGE: 67 ADDRESS: 156 E. Water St., Washington FAMILY: Wife, Lou Hodges ; Daughters and sons-in-law, Beth and Wade Fickling and Sara and Tre Bell; grandchildren, Gray and

Thomas Fickling, Ruth and John Bell EDUCATION: Fishburne Military School, 1969; bachelor’s degree, East Carolina University, 1974; Realtor’s Institute, G.R.I., 1981.

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Hodges worked as a real estate agent from 1978 to 1990, and then founded Hodges Appraisal in 1990, which he still operates.

QUALIFICATIONS: I am a native of Beaufort County and a graduate of both Washington High School and East Carolina University. I married a local girl, and we raised our children in this community.

My deep roots within our city and county provide me with both personal contacts and hands-on familiarity with our region’s strengths and how they can be directed to improving our future and the lives of our children and grandchildren. I am proud to

be a Washingtonian, and I would greatly appreciate being given another term to serve as your mayor.

PLATFORM: Over the next two years, I hope to be able to continue the beautification of Washington as a means of supporting the growth and expansion of our town as a tourist destination for both our immediate neighbors and the greater surrounding region.

This plan includes the use of federal incentive grants to streetscape the Main Street business district, and to provide for façade grants to aging storefronts; support of community growth through capital investment, such as the recent residential development at the Moss Landing site; and new homes throughout the Water Street area, the recently completed Fairfield Inn

and the newly remodeled Food Lion; the city administration’s encouragement of job creation and entrepreneurial initiative, such as the ongoing revival of the restaurant industry, the development of the prospective downtown hotel and the coming Farmers Market; bringing people to community events such as waterfront concerts, the Turnage Theatre programs, the remodeling of Havens Gardens and involvement with civic groups such as the Boys & Girls Club and youth sports programs at the city parks; seek greater support from Beaufort County in providing more adequate funding to the Brown Library and the Susie Gray McConnell Sports Complex based our common interest in the betterment of the greater community served by these facilities.

CITY COUNCIL GILBERT R. ALLIGOOD

AGE: 79 ADDRESS: 117 Albemarle Drive, Washington FAMILY: Wife, Geraldine Alligood; two sons, Gilbert R. Alligood Jr. and Gregory Alligood; one daughter, Geri Callahan and six grandchildren EDUCATION: Bath High School, 1956; B.S. civil engineering, North Carolina State

University, 1960; master’s degree of public works, University of Pittsburgh, 1969 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Alligood was a colonel and pilot in the U. S. Air Force, active and reserve, from 1960 to 1986. From 1965 to 1974, he worked as the superintendent of buildings and grounds, for the City of Winston-Salem, and was the director of public works for the City of Washington from 1973 until 1984. As an engineering consultant, Alligood has worked with Rivers and Associates Inc., Engineer Consultants, Greenhorne & O’Mara Inc. Alligood also worked as a private land developer from 2002 to 2012 and holds a certificate in municipal administration from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.

QUALIFICATIONS: Service in the USAF instilled in me a sense of personal responsibility, commitment to succeed and honesty in all activities. Nineteen years of service in municipal government employment and 18 years as a consulting engineer to municipal, state, federal and international govern-

ments have provided me with an in-depth understanding of government service to its citizens.

Several leadership positions demonstrated my ability to lead: president, North Carolina Association of Future Farmers of America; president, Professional Engineers of North Carolina; chairman, N.C. Licensing Board for Engineers and Surveyors; president, Kiwanis Club of Raleigh Foundation; a church elder and Bible school teacher.

PLATFORM: Our city of Washington has very fine qualities that make it a comfortable and pleasant place to live. Its natural resources and vistas provide qualities that bring people here to visit and, in many cases, retire. That is good for our social life.

However, there are issues that must receive attention to lift us out of very low family incomes, and in some cases, poverty.

Over the past many years, we have failed to raise some of our children to accept responsibility for themselves. They do not get educated socially and intellectually to

the level that they can perform work as it is required in business today. Without those resources to attract industry and business, we have not been growing as one would think that we should.

The Washington City Council has the responsibility of governing our city, not guidance nor governance of those institutions and facilities that prepare our young folks for achieving a high goal in life. However, improvements must be made for us to stop a further slide into poverty. Maybe, just maybe, the council has some responsibilities in community leadership. Surely that responsibility must be effected in our city.

My government experience can be valuable in the legislative responsibilities of our city. I also aspire to encourage cooperation and understanding among governments and private service institutions to move our governments and culture forward cooperatively.

Improvement in our community appearance, pride and culture can move us to higher economic and cultural standards.

JOHN WALTER BUTLER JR.

AGE: 40 ADDRESS: 731 W. Main St. FAMILY: Partner, Richard Smoot; and his son (22) and daughter (19) EDUCATION: B.A., criminology and gender studies, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, 1999 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Butler currently serves as the director of Washington Harbor District Alliance, where he is responsible for economic development, stakeholder relations, organization/manage-

ment and utilizing historic preservation as an integral foundation for economic growth and vitality. Butler is the principal person responsible for coordinating all program activities locally – guiding the organization as it grows and as its objectives evolve.

Butler has a broad background in national and international marketing and communications. Before he moved to Washington, he was the director of marketing and membership for the African Wildlife Foundation in Washington, D.C., and Nairobi, Kenya. Prior to that, Butler was vice president of strategy and account services at SQN Communications in Leesburg, Virginia; director of communications and marketing at the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation in Washington, D.C.; senior strategist at Witeck-Combs Communications, also in D.C. QUALIFICATIONS: I am a seasoned professional with nearly two decades of work in fast-paced, high profile, national and global environments. From award-winning publications and campaigns to record-breaking and against-the-odds fundraising and public relations goals, I am ignited by challenge. My partner and I operate Washington’s newest

bed-and-breakfast inn, Elmwood 1820 (one of Washington’s oldest and most acclaimed residences), and the Pamlico River’s premier dinner and event cruise vessel, the Belle of Washington. I represent my businesses at integral civic-minded groups such as the Washington (noon) Rotary and Committee of 100 and am chair of the Washington Tourism Development Authority.

PLATFORM: I promote positive community and economic growth in our city. Building upon Washington’s greatest strengths, I believe in: a strong economic growth plan — the recruitment of businesses, small and large, efforts to increase jobs across the wage spectrum from multiple industries, policies, procedure and a mindset cultivating growth, not deterring it; enhancement of Washington’s greatest assets — streetscape and cityscape improvements, more signage, branding, pedestrian-friendly walkways, landscaping and land use design, river access, beautification and utilization improvements; partnerships truly leveraging resources; a better and mutually beneficial relationship with surrounding counties; more public-private partnerships; more

and effective nonprofit agency partnerships that deliver on key city strategies and services; increased exposure to statewide funding programs, grants, our legislatures and investors; infrastructure investments — cost-effective changes to electric, sewer, roads, drainage and other areas truly addressing systemic concerns to prepare for the future, be a leading town in North Carolina, proactively pursuing and staying ahead of technological trends and offerings, and taking full advantage of funding opportunities to reduce tax-payer stress; maintaining Washington’s unique character — cherishing our unique historic district, rare natural resources and diverse community, reuse of our historic buildings and better understand needs of all our diverse citizens; and embracing a vision for Washington’s future — through tourism we have a chance to define ourselves, what we are about and want, directly communicating our pride and personality to visitors and future residents of multiple generations and cultural backgrounds and remind ourselves what makes our town so great and why others should love it as much as we do.

RICHARD LOUIS BROOKS

AGE: N/A ADDRESS: Boston Avenue, Washington FAMILY: Wife, Mary Brooks; son, Richard

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Lee; two daughters, Flora and Keisha.

EDUCATION: Washington High School PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Brooks retired from E.I. DuPont after 25 years of service, where he was the first head of the personnel core team for DuPont. He has served as the lieutenant of fire brigade and was a volunteer fireman for more than 30 years. Brooks was chairman of the Board of Adjustment for two years, and has worked as a board member for Beebe Park, a Project Second Chance, the Council of Aging and The Salvation Army.

Brooks has served as an elected official on the Washington City Council for more than 14 years and operates the Greyhound bus stop in Washington.

QUALIFICATIONS: My diverse

background of personal, professional and community involvement combined enhances my qualifications for membership on the City Council. In my personal experience, I have been serving the citizens of Washington for more than 16 years. I served as the chairman of the Board of Adjustment and a city councilman. Serving the community is my main priority; the concerns of the community affect us all.

My professional experience, my leadership skills as the First Head Personnel Core Team leader for E. I. DuPont and my volunteer work as a volunteer fireman for more than 30 years for City of Washington all demonstrate my commitment and abilities.

This variety of experience provides me with the knowledge and skills needed to be an

effective member of the City Council.

PLATFORM: I represent you, the citizens of Washington. I want to find better ways of handling the issues that concern you and this community.

There are two great concerns that are affecting the city currently: drainage and jobs.

We have to come up with a solution for the drainage situation here in Washington. There are severe drainage issues affecting the flooding problem in Washington. We need to find funding such as grants to help assist with the costs of a better drainage system.

Secondly, there are companies that are leaving the city, and our citizens are losing their jobs because of this. The City Council needs to find a workable solution to encourage companies to come to Washington.

7B • Wednesday, October 18, 2017 www.TheWashingtonDailyNews.com

WASHINGTON CITY COUNCIL WILLIAM “BILL” CLARK

AGE: 72 ADDRESS: 203 S. Academy St., Washington FAMILY: Wife, Rebecca; two daughters, Stephanie and Nicole; stepson, William; seven grandchildren

EDUCATION: B.S., production management and industrial engineering with a minor in economics, Indiana University, 1966; MBA program, Fairleigh-Dickinson University, 1968 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Clark has held senior executive positions with Fortune 500 companies, culminating as president of worldwide operations, with responsibility for 37 businesses in 19 countries. He was co-owner of the largest (small volume) aerosol manufacturing business in the U.S., at the time. During his career, Clark has lived in four countries, gaining valuable experience in various cultures, languages and ways of life. He said he has successfully instituted programs that consistently reduced costs by 7 percent annually, while improving quality and customer service, all framed within

a “No Layoff Policy.” Clark has lived in eastern N.C. for 13 years and Washington for nine years — the longest he has lived anywhere.

QUALIFICATIONS: As a successful executive and business owner, I understand the critical importance of expense and capital budget preparation, execution, adherence and overall fiscal responsibility. I believe that Washington has not yet reached its full potential as an outstanding place to live, work, visit or retire. I have been instrumental in bringing downtown Wi-Fi to our businesses, boaters, visitors and residents. I have been a strong advocate for securing our recent Washington Retire N.C. Certification. I serve on the board of Washington Tourism Development Authority. I am a founding member of the Washington Off-Leash Dog

Park, Washington Underground Railroad Museum and president of our Homeowners Association. I have portrayed George Washington in various municipal events and holidays.

PLATFORM: I will represent and listen to all residents in an unbiased, fair, respectful and transparent manner. I am committed to preserving our past, while shaping our future. I will promote tourism, eco-tourism and economic development within all areas of the City of Washington. I will bring new thinking and a collaborative approach to the City Council. I will strive to reduce or maintain our current city tax rates while maintaining or improving services. I will work with the council and department heads to ensure that all city departments have the appropriate resources and authority they require to be successful.

GIL DAVIS

AGE: 72 ADDRESS: 735 W. Second St., Washington FAMILY: Wife, Susan Leggett Davis; children, Al Davis, Teri Davis Sauls, Kristen and Melissa Baker EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in physical education and recreation, East Carolina University; master’s degree in physical education and recreation, East

Carolina University; North Carolina State Parks and Recreation management school PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Davis is 40-year member of the North Carolina Recreation Society, member of the National Parks and Recreation Association, member of the N.C. Community Schools Association and cofounder of the East Carolina Athletic Conference in 1978. Past employment includes parks and recreation director in the towns of Eden, Ayden and Washington, grant writer for several organizations and part-time instructor at Beaufort County Community College. He has also served as the chairman of the Beaufort County Juvenile Justice Committee, commissioner of the Washington Housing Authority, and since 1974, has been a member and is currently the president of the Kiwanis Club of Washington.

QUALIFICATIONS: I served on the Washington City Council from 2007 until 2011, performing all the required duties of

a councilman. I worked tirelessly to build reserve without impacting city operations.

During my working career, I prepared local government budgets, operated under approved budgets and found ways to stretch my budget by developing a core of in-kind services, which could help provide better and additional service for the citizens I served.

PLATFORM: I believe a councilman should do his best to serve all of his constituents equally and fairly. I will strive to do my best to make decisions based on what is best for all citizens of Washington.

The City of Washington must improve its image, livability, curb appeal, public safety and general services to our citizens. We need to do these things without burdening our citizens with additional taxes. We must be proactive in seeking new funding avenues, programs and public and private grants, investigating public-private activities, program offerings and planning with local grassroots programs, so as to get

the biggest bang for our bucks! We must work together to improve the livability of Washington on the Pamlico.

The city has many pressing needs and desires. We must deal with our infrastructure problems. Drainage improvements are needed in many sections of the community. Jack’s Creek Basin, Ironwood and several areas along 13th, 14th and 15th streets need attention, as do several other areas. The council must look for new and better ways to tackle these needs.

We must continue to press forward with plans for a new public-safety facility.

Downtown areas need attention, as does our waterfront. We must find ways to achieve betterment of these areas without a drastic influx in public funds. The council must work together to meet the needs of all of our citizens. Being a native of Washington allows me to remember the past, while looking to a brighter future for our city.

VIRGINIA FINNERTY

AGE: 59 ADDRESS: 400 E. Main St., Washington FAMILY: Two daughters, Meghan and Erin; and one son, Sean EDUCATION: Bachelor of science, elementary education, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, 1979

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Virginia has been an elementary school teacher (Capistrano Unified School District, California and Palm Beach School District, Florida), executive assistant (Cross Country Healthcare), a stay-at-home mom and has owned two businesses. She’s also worked in human resources, retail sales, real estate and catering. Virginia chose to make Washington her home in 2010. She fell in love with the warm and welcoming people of Washington, the beautiful waterfront and the historic charm of her new hometown. Currently, Virginia owns the Pamlico House Bed & Breakfast on East Main Street in Washington and works part-time at Arts of the Pamlico.

QUALIFICATIONS: I served on the City Council from 2015 to present, during which I have been the liaison for the historical preservation committee and the Wash-

ington Tourism Development Authority.

My background as a successful business owner makes me qualified to produce and adhere to fiscally responsible budgets. I truly understand the value of a dollar and am keenly aware of the importance of attracting new businesses, a strong tourist trade and the promotion of Washington as a desirable place to raise a family or retire, thus increasing the tax base. I have served on the board of Arts of the Pamlico and as an adviser to the Washington Harbor District Alliance.

PLATFORM: As a successful businesswoman, I believe in fiscal responsibility and using a business approach for balanced growth. I believe Washington will only be successful by having a well-thought-out and balanced budget that supports the programs and services that benefit all of its citizens. As a city councilwoman my

goals will be to: endeavor to develop good and open communication with all citizens of Washington in order to build consensus so we may work together developing a vision that addresses its socioeconomic future and infrastructure as well as create a detailed and specific plan to achieve this vision; reach out to our county commissioners and build a strong partnership in order to join forces in the best interest of Washington as a whole; work closely with fellow council members by thinking out of the box to help businesses thrive and attract new business thus ensuring a strong tax base, helping maintain the individual tax rate; find innovative ways to enhance our community to attract more tourism while still maintaining our historic charm and integrity; represent all citizens in all Washington districts and strive to listen to and address their concerns.

DOUGLAS MERCER

AGE: 82 ADDRESS: 105 Lawson Road, Washington FAMILY: Wife, Lois H. Mercer; son, Douglas Glenn Mercer Jr. and daughter, Stephanie M. Ingalls EDUCATION: B.S., East Carolina College, 1961

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PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Mercer worked as a science and math teacher at Bath High School from 1957 until 1967. He then transferred to working at TexasGulf (now PotashCorp), where he held several management positions from 1967 to 1995.

QUALIFICATIONS: I have served on the Washington City Council for the past 10 years, and during that time I have carefully studied every issue that has been presented to the council, made a decision based on the available information and voted for what I believed is in the best interest of all the citizens of Washington and its service area. Prior to being elected to the council, I served on both the city Planning Board and the Board of Adjustments. I am also the current chairman of the county Planning Board; I serve as the city’s representative to the

North Carolina Eastern Municipal Power Agency, the Highway 17 Association, the county Economic Development Board and the Mid-East Commission.

PLATFORM: I am a fiscal conservative.

I firmly believe the city should operate on a “pay as you go” program for the normal operations of the city. I have strongly supported this approach and will continue to do so if re-elected. Although economic conditions seem to be improving, many of our residents and businesses are still struggling, and I will work to ensure your tax dollar is wisely spent.

I also recognize the city has a major flooding issue, which needs to be corrected. We have a study, which indicates it will require about $10 million to correct the major drainage issues. The problem will not be solved if we continue the current program of spending only $150,000

to $200,000 a year. I have encouraged the council to borrow the money to address this problem and will continue to do so if re-elected.

During recent years, we have spent a considerable amount of money in the downtown district and the results have provided an area of which we are all very proud.

However, there are other areas of the city that have pressing needs, both residential and business areas. I will encourage the council to carefully study these needs and take appropriate actions.

Washington has an aging infrastructure system, much of it installed in the early to mid-20th century. It is unable to handle the rapidly changing technology. The city must develop a systematic program to address this issue, and I will strongly encourage the council to develop a program.

8B • Wednesday, October 18, 2017 www.TheWashingtonDailyNews.com

WASHINGTON CITY COUNCIL WILLIAM H. PITT

AGE: 62 ADDRESS: 318 The Courtyards, Washington FAMILY: Wife, Joyce Canady Pitt EDUCATION: East Carolina University and Beaufort County Community College; LELA Academy Ambassador Level;

UNC-Chapel Hill Advanced Leadership Corps, 2016 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: From 2007 to present, Pitt has served on the Washington City Council, serving as liaison for Washington/Beaufort County Human Relations Council from 2010-2012.

Pitt was a member of the North Carolina League of Municipalities General Government Legislative Action Committee, 2011-2012; District 2 representative of the Black Elected Municipal Officials, 20122013; North Carolina League of Municipalities General Government Legislative Action Committee vice chair, 2013-2014; was a part of the Joint Land Use Study group for Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, 2013-2014; North Carolina League of Municipalities at-large board member, 2014-2015; member of the North Carolina League of Municipalities Tax and Finance

Committee, 2015-2016; co-chair of the North Carolina League of Municipalities Planning and Environment Legislative Action Committee, 2014-2017; North Carolina League of Municipalities District 2 director, 2016-2017; North Carolina League of Municipalities Real Estate Committee, September 2017; and elected vice president of the North Carolina League of Municipalities.

QUALIFICATIONS: For eight years, I have served the citizens of Washington as a council member as well as eight years serving all of North Carolina by being a member of the North Carolina League of Municipalities. I am a part of multiple committees dedicated to building relationships with other cities and other elected officials. These groups encourage lobbying and advocating for solutions to city concerns and the future of our region.

PLATFORM: As one of your elected leaders, it is my duty to be a council member for all of the citizens of Washington.

First and foremost, I want to recruit and promote jobs that pay a living wage with room for further advancement for all. It is also my desire to continue my quest for broadband and a social media presence for Washington. This will enhance citizen and government communications. Another issue of utmost importance for our city is developing an effective plan for improving drainage and our aging infrastructure at all levels. I would also work to maintain our historic district — its character is necessary for historical preservation.

Creating relationships across all levels of government is a task I plan to pursue because we flourish and prosper when we work together. Our goal should be “one city for all citizens.”

ROBERT SANDS

AGE: 60 ADDRESS: 820 Park Drive, Washington FAMILY: Wife, Allison Greene-Sands; son, Parker EDUCATION: Ph.D. in anthropology, University of Illinois, 1991; master’s degree in anthropology, Iowa State University, 1984; bachelor’s degree in anthropology, Illinois State University, 1978 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Sands is the current chairman of the

board of directors for Pamlico Rose Institute for Sustainable Communities, as well as director of Research and Learning at Languaculture Consulting and anthropology professor at Norwich University. He has served as the regional and culture contract lead with the Defense Intelligence Agency; culture chair of the U.S. Air Force Culture and Language Center; environmental manager at Edwards Air Force Base; and lead archaeologist/cultural resource lead at Edwards Air Force Base.

QUALIFICATIONS: I am CEO of Pamlico Rose Institute and an anthropology professor, and have worked for and with the U.S. Department of Defense for 20 years.

For five years, I was the environmental manager overseeing an annual $6 million budget and 100 employees at Edwards Air Force Base. I spent 10 years developing critical language and culture learning programs for military populations, such as Special Forces, that help build/sustain cross-cultural partnerships. My experience includes effective organizational/ financial management, environmental

planning and essential problem-solving skills that take multiple viewpoints while building consensus and collaboration. My nonprofit work in historical preservation and serving veterans has provided a unique and important understanding of this community.

PLATFORM: I believe a strong and resilient community drives growth and prosperity for all residents. Washington’s strength as a community lies in the skills and expertise of all residents. Washington’s river and the history reflected in its historic district are enticements for growth. Washington offers a thriving community college and features a vibrant culture of meaningful giving.

The path to success includes importing business and attracting residents to stimulate economic growth. However, creating a sustainable, enduring community ultimately rests on the diversity of experience and achievement of government, business leaders, nonprofits, educators, parents, seniors and others. Having worked for the DoD, I know diversity of experience is a

powerful agent in a successful population.

Flexibility to adapt and lead economic and social innovation is also critical.

Washington grows because it stretches and reaches, not just adds.

My vision is to promote growth while honoring Washington’s unique character; preserving/celebrating the history of all Washingtonians; support environment of economic innovation/collaboration that benefits sustainable growth; promote programs and civic partnerships that offer opportunity for healthy quality of life and path for success for all; and serve at-risk populations — affected veterans, victims of domestic abuse, drug addiction and the aged, among others. Serving these populations serves us all, as they cut across class, ethnicity, race, gender and other groups. New business and residents want a vibrant, caring, inclusive community. I believe the City Council should be community leaders and advocates for all Washingtonians and instrumental in applying this vision to grow a thriving and prosperous community.

GERALD SEIGHMAN

AGE: 74 ADDRESS: 203 N. Reed Drive, Washington FAMILY: Wife, Martha (aka “Bubbles the Clown”); three sons Gerald Seighman Jr., Thomas Seighman and Charles Seighman

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree, chemistry, St. Edwards University, Austin, Texas, 1965; EMS certification, Texas, 19821985; EMS certification, North Carolina, 1985-2010 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Seighman started his career as a secondary school instructor with the Bay City Texas Independent School System, and then worked as chemist with Texas Gulf Sulphur Co. in Newgulf, Texas, from 1967 to 1984. He then came to PCS Phosphate in Aurora from Texas, where he served as an industrial hygienist/radiation safety officer from 1984 to 2005. Seighman has multiple certifications: certified industrial hygienist; certified safety professional; mine safety professional; certified hazardous materials manager; fire inspector level I and fire inspector level II; and is accredited

as an asbestos inspector, supervisor and supervising air monitor. He’s also a City of Washington Fire-Rescue-EMS volunteer firefighter/EMT, and through the department is certified as fire officer level III and a fire/arson investigator.

QUALIFICATIONS: Having attended the Beaufort County commissioners and the Washington City Council meetings and their budget planning sessions for the last three to four years, I have a working knowledge of the operation and financial obligations of county and city governments.

I was a member of the Beaufort County Local Emergency Planning Committee from 1988 to 2010 (chairman from 1988-2001) and served on the City of Washington Water Task Force Committee from 1989-1990.

PLATFORM: The excessive spending and expanding size of Beaufort County government, a Tier 1 county, make it inevitable that county taxes will rise, which will cause a significant burden on the lower income citizens of Washington. My primary goal is to prevent the City of Washington from increasing city taxes by controlling city spending. I feel the best way to accomplish this is by being on the City Council.

I believe that a government, using the power of law to take money from citizens, should not be allowed to give said money to private organizations, with certain exceptions. If said organizations are worthy of support the citizens themselves should decide.

It also is time for the City of Washington to seriously address its flooding problems, electric rates and aging infrastructure.

ROLAND WYMAN

AGE: 64 ADDRESS: 200 Washington Harbour, Washington FAMILY: Wife, Deborah Wyman EDUCATION: USAF School of Applied Science, 1970-1972; B.S., electrical engineering, University of Denver, 1973 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Wyman served in the U.S. Air Force from 1970-1974, working in aviation electronics

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systems. He then worked in manufacturing machine controls with GTE Sylvania from 1974 to 1976 and Shape Inc. in Portland, Maine, Tucson, Curacao, and Wales, U.K., from 1976–1987, where he progressed through roles of manufacturing engineer, project engineer, product manager and division manager. He then moved on to technical director at Tape Automation Ltd., where he oversaw large-scale technology installations across Europe, the U.S., and in South America, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Dubai and some North African countries, followed by the role of director of marketing and sales, overseeing a network of sales agents in the U.K., Europe, Australia, South Korea, Japan, South America and across the U.S. for EAM Inc. from 1995–2011.

QUALIFICATIONS: Over the course of my international business career, I acquired management skills that included developing and controlling large-scale budgets and negotiating and diplomacy skills that are essential in representing a wide

range of people with cultural differences.

The successes in my career depended heavily on building a strong basis of longterm trust with the people around me, which allowed me to refine and solidify a code of ethics that ensured a positive outcome for all parties involved. Some of my strengths are developing, implementing and following projects through to completion.

PLATFORM: Vision: My vision for the city of Washington is that of a vibrant, integrated city that includes people of all socio-economic statuses, with a growing economic base of businesses and traveland-tourism to ensure that the needs of all our residents are met.

Economic growth: I will work with economic development leaders at the city and county levels to bring more businesses and jobs to Washington. Economic growth is beneficial to all our residents since this adds to revenue available to the city for funding social programs.

An emphasis should be placed on adopting

best practices from similar cities that are successfully growing and managing that growth.

Travel and tourism: Work with travel-andtourism organizations as well as Washington Harbor District Alliance to improve, maintain and promote our city’s cultural heritage, its charming setting and other attractive attributes.

Infrastructure: Help ensure our city planners maintain a priority on city drainage and traffic issues and foster close cooperation with state and county entities to develop and implement unified action plans.

Community: Maintain continuous outreach to encourage constructive dialog with residents to benefit from their wealth of ideas and potential solutions to challenges our city faces.

Summary: I believe a city councilor must represent everyone in Washington and must bear this in mind for every matter put before the council. It is my intention to respectfully serve and make a positive contribution to our city’s future.

9B • Wednesday, October 18, 2017 www.TheWashingtonDailyNews.com

WASHINGTON PARK ABOUT THE WASHINGTON PARK ELECTIONS

MAYOR THOMAS B. (TOM) RICHTER

The Town of Washington Park will host elections for mayor and all five seats on the Board of Commissioners.

Candidates must be a resident of Washington Park and cannot be an employee of the town. They must be at least 18 years old and meet citizenship requirements for anyone holding public office in the State of North Carolina.

The mayor of Washington Park is the legal CEO of the municipal corporation and is responsible for signing and authorizing all legal initiatives, all contracts and is the signature on all correspondence pertaining to any town business, individuals and businesses and estates. He or she is responsible for conducting special and monthly meetings, and essentially, the discussion leaders with some sort of understanding and background of Robert’s Rules of Order. The mayor is also responsible for conducting the meetings of the Washington Park Board of Adjustments and representing the town at outside meetings and functions. He or she is responsible for enforcement of town ordinances in matters consistent with State of North Carolina and United States Constitutions and is also tasked with the review and adoption of the town budget and its implementation throughout the year.

Washington Park Board of Commissioners is responsible for participation in regular or called meetings, at which town business is conducted. Each commissioner has a nominal area of concern or interest, in which he or she gains some more in-depth knowledge.

The positions are divided into such areas as public safety, finance, appearance and beautification, recreation, streets and drainage, and over time, he or she gets to know something about them. Each commissioner is also responsible to cross-train and be available for a special task as might be assigned by the entire board or the mayor, including but not limited to representing the town with a state agency or outside entities. He or she is also responsible for overseeing any activities that are budgeted or authorized by the board in his or her area of specialization. Commissioners are also responsible for aiding in the review and adoption of the town budget and its implementation throughout the year.

AGE: old ADDRESS: 313 College Ave., Washington Park FAMILY: Wife, Dorie; son, Jay; daughter, Lyndsay EDUCATION: B.A. fine arts, minor sociology, Rockford College; master’s degree in urban and regional planning, New York University PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Richter has served as the mayor of the Town of Washington Park since 1975. He is a current

board member of the Northeastern N.C. Economic Development Partnership, Partnership for the Sounds and Beaufort County Committee of 100, on which he served as chairman from 2008 until 2012. He also worked with the North Carolina Department of Conservation and Development, Division of Community Planning, from 1970 until 2007.

He served with the U.S. Army’s 159th Combat Engineer Group in Long Binh, Vietnam, from 1968-1969. Before his service in the military, he worked with the New York City Planning Department from 1967 to 1968. Richter also holds municipal and county administration certificates from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and a public administration certification from the North Carolina Department of Administration.

QUALIFICATIONS: My education and job experience has been a “hand-in-glove” fit for my job as mayor. Municipal budgeting, capital budgeting, facilities planning, grantsmanship and inter-governmental coordination have been key in my schooling and primary responsibilities

of my mayoral position. Likewise, my mayoral experience was my most valuable preparation for my career in planning in eastern North Carolina. I am most appreciative of the Washington Park residents for electing me, and re-electing me, as their town mayor. It is an honor.

PLATFORM: Communication between the community and the town board is both important and ongoing. Quarterly editions of the WP Town Crier will continue to be distributed to each of the 215 homes in the town, as they have been for more than 20 years. The town board will continue to meet regularly and openly, and continue to advertise meetings in advance.

Inter-governmental cooperation is important to the Park. Currently, the Park has agreements with the City of Washington for fire, EMS and building inspection. Through agreements with Beaufort County, the Park is supported by partial Tot-Lot funding, protection through the sheriff’s office and the collection of our municipal property taxes. With the Beaufort County water system, the town has a safe water supply for drinking and fire protection. Working with

larger units of government in the provision of some services fosters a partnership with our neighboring communities.

Developing, adopting, implementing and auditing a municipal budget is not only required by state statute, it is also the most basic responsibility of North Carolina local government officials.

Administering the Washington Park budgeting process, providing the Park’s capable staff with needed resources and equipment to manage Park services, maintaining local partnerships, and meeting the state and federal standards for municipalities are all fundamental tasks for the mayor and town board. Those responsibilities will continue to be taken very seriously. As mayor, I will continue to support and advance these management efforts.

Over the years, the Park has changed. What has not changed is the character of the community which residents enjoy. As noted above, I will work hard to maintain the sense of community and quality of life that has existed for decades in the Park.

COMMISSIONER BELINDA COWELL AGE: 57 ADDRESS: 309 Isabella Ave., Washington Park FAMILY: Husband, David Cowell; daughter and son-in-law, Sara and Jonathan Coburn; son, Ryan Cowell; father, Merton Vance Sr. EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree, sociol-

ogy, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, 1982 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Cowell has worked as a social worker/ dropout prevention specialist with Beaufort County Schools since 2005. Prior to her role in BCS, she held several social worker and supervisory positions with

Beaufort County Department of Social Services from 1986 until 2005.

QUALIFICATIONS: I am currently serving my first term on the Washington Park town board. I have been a resident of Washington Park since 2012.

PLATFORM: I am interested in keeping Washington Park a great place to live.

ROBERT WADE DALE III

AGE: 68 ADDRESS: 300 College Ave., Washington Park FAMILY: Wife, Dennie Dale and son, Robert Wade Dale IV EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree, University

of Baltimore PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Dale has been a partner with Ocean Marketing for 30 years.

QUALIFICATIONS: I am running for my third term on the board. I feel my time on

the board helps me make positive decisions that impact our wonderful community.

PLATFORM: As I have said in the past, I have no political agenda. I just want to do what is in the best interest of my neighbors and Washington Park.

PATRICK F. NASH AGE: 58 ADDRESS: 406 Riverside Drive, Washington Park FAMILY: Wife, Carol and daughters Sarah Staton, Crutcher and Katie EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in zoology, University of North CarolinaChapel Hill, 1981 PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND:

Nash has served as the managing director of Inner Banks Venture Partners for three years. He worked as an account executive with Siemens Healthcare for 24 years.

QUALIFICATIONS: I have been a resident of Washington Park for the past 32 years and have served 10 years as a member of Washington Park town council.

PLATFORM: Washington Park is a wonderful place to live, and it is a privilege to serve as a town council member. The Washington Park demographic continues to change to one of younger families. Continuing our long-standing, small-community, relaxed lifestyle while ensuring the safety of residents young and old is my area of focus.

JEFF PEACOCK

AGE: 61 ADDRESS: 312 Riverside Drive, Washington Park FAMILY: Wife, Brenda and son, Tyler EDUCATION: B.S., electrical engineering, Clemson University, 1979

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Peacock worked in industrial plants for many years in facilities engineering and project management.

QUALIFICATIONS: I have been a commissioner for Washington Park for 20

years.

PLATFORM: I will continue efforts to keep our taxes as low as possible while maintaining the level of services provided that our residents have come to expect.

LEE BOWEN

AGE: 56 ADDRESS: 500 Isabella Ave., Washington Park FAMILY: Wife, Cyndi and children, Christopher, Dylan and Beau EDUCATION: B.S., mechanical engineering, North Carolina State University PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND: Bowen has been the co-owner of KidKusion Inc. for nearly 25 years. KidKusion is a lead-

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ing designer and manufacturer of children’s home safety products. KidKusion holds numerous patents resulting from the development of unique products.

QUALIFICATIONS: My engineering degree and business experience allow me to address issues and concerns with a methodical approach. The experience of dealing with the finances of a small business leads me to make spending decisions where

we get the most value from our tax dollars.

PLATFORM: I am currently the commissioner responsible for streets and drainage.

It is a challenge to provide proper drainage in our low-lying areas. I would like to continue to use my engineering experience along with the knowledge and support of the other board members and residents to provide the best drainage that we can within our budget.

10B • Wednesday, October 18, 2017 www.TheWashingtonDailyNews.com

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Sample Ballot Beaufort County, North Carolina November 7, 2017

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|A. With the marking device provided or a black ball point pen, completely fill in the oval | to the left of each candidate or selection of your choice as shown. |B. Where authorized, you may write in a candidate by filling in the oval and writing the | name on the Write-in line. |C. If you tear, deface or wrongly mark this ballot, return it to request a replacement.

|A. With the marking device provided or a black ball point pen, completely fill in the oval | to the left of each candidate or selection of your choice as shown. |B. Where authorized, you may write in a candidate by filling in the oval and writing the | name on the Write-in line. |C. If you tear, deface or wrongly mark this ballot, return it to request a replacement.

TOWN OF AURORA

TOWN OF BATH

Mayor

Board of Commissioners

(You may vote for ONE)

(You may vote for TWO)

Clif Williams

Patricia Duffer

Write-in

David C. Johnson Write-in

Board of Commissioners

Write-in

(You may vote for TWO)

Patricia Bragg Raleigh B. Lee

End of Ballot

Jeff Peed Write-in Write-in

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Sample Ballot Beaufort County, North Carolina November 7, 2017

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|A. With the marking device provided or a black ball point pen, completely fill in the oval | to the left of each candidate or selection of your choice as shown. |B. Where authorized, you may write in a candidate by filling in the oval and writing the | name on the Write-in line. |C. If you tear, deface or wrongly mark this ballot, return it to request a replacement.

|A. With the marking device provided or a black ball point pen, completely fill in the oval | to the left of each candidate or selection of your choice as shown. |B. Where authorized, you may write in a candidate by filling in the oval and writing the | name on the Write-in line. |C. If you tear, deface or wrongly mark this ballot, return it to request a replacement.

TOWN OF BELHAVEN

TOWN OF CHOCOWINITY

Mayor

Mayor

(You may vote for ONE)

(You may vote for ONE)

Arthur Bonner

Curt Jenkins

Ricky Credle

Jimmy Mobley

Edith C. Guy

Write-in

Elola T. Moore Greg Satterthwaite

Board of Commissioners (You may vote for TWO)

Write-in

William J. Albritton

Board of Aldermen East End Ward

Elizabeth A. Ange Louise S. Furman

(You may vote for ONE)

Yvonne Evans Deruiz

Write-in

Ricky Radcliffe

Write-in

Write-in

Board of Aldermen West End Ward

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(You may vote for ONE)

Jay Wilkins Write-in

Board of Aldermen East End Ward

Unexpired term ending 2019 (You may vote for ONE)

Mary F. Cox Write-in

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North Carolina

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11B • Wednesday, October 18, 2017 www.TheWashingtonDailyNews.com

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Sample Ballot Beaufort County, North Carolina November 7, 2017

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|A. With the marking device provided or a black ball point pen, completely fill in the oval | to the left of each candidate or selection of your choice as shown. |B. Where authorized, you may write in a candidate by filling in the oval and writing the | name on the Write-in line. |C. If you tear, deface or wrongly mark this ballot, return it to request a replacement.

|A. With the marking device provided or a black ball point pen, completely fill in the oval | to the left of each candidate or selection of your choice as shown. |B. Where authorized, you may write in a candidate by filling in the oval and writing the | name on the Write-in line. |C. If you tear, deface or wrongly mark this ballot, return it to request a replacement.

TOWN OF PANTEGO

TOWN OF WASHINGTON PARK

Mayor

Mayor

(You may vote for ONE)

(You may vote for ONE)

Stuart E. Ricks

Thomas (Tom) Richter

Write-in

Write-in

Board of Commissioners

Board of Commissioners

(You may vote for FIVE)

(You may vote for FIVE)

Mart Benson

Lee Bowen

Reid Gelderman

Belinda Cowell

Chad Keech

Wade Dale

Robert W. Lilley

Patrick Nash

Chuck Williams

Jeff Peacock

Write-in

Write-in

Write-in

Write-in

Write-in

Write-in

Write-in

Write-in

Write-in

Write-in

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Sample Ballot Beaufort County, North Carolina November 7, 2017

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|A. With the marking device provided or a black ball point pen, completely fill in the oval | to the left of each candidate or selection of your choice as shown. |B. Where authorized, you may write in a candidate by filling in the oval and writing the | name on the Write-in line. |C. If you tear, deface or wrongly mark this ballot, return it to request a replacement.

CITY OF WASHINGTON

Mayor

A

B

Write-in

City Council

(You may vote for FIVE)

Gil Alligood Richard Brooks John Butler William (Bill) Clark Gil Davis Virginia Finnerty Douglas Mercer William H. Pitt Robert R. Sands Gerald Seighman Roland Wyman Write-in Write-in Write-in Write-in Write-in

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Five seeking Belhaven mayor’s seat; 11 running for Washington City Council For the Daily News

Mac Hodges

North Carolina

Candidates aplenty

By MIKE VOSS

(You may vote for ONE)

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Sample Ballot Beaufort County, North Carolina November 7, 2017

Five people are seeking the mayor’s seat in Belhaven this election cycle, but Adam O’Neal, the current mayor, is not one of them.

Ricky Credle and Greg Satterthwaite, current members of the Belhaven Board of Aldermen, are seeking to replace O’Neal, as are Elola T. Moore, Arthur Bonner and Edith C. Guy. Incumbent Yvonne DeRuiz filed for reelection as alderwoman for the town’s East End district. Also seeking to represent the East End district seat held by DeRuiz is Ricky Radcliffe. Running for the West End district seat on the board is Jay Wilkins. One East End seat and one West End seat are available this election cycle.

Mary F. Cox is the lone candidate to complete the unexpired term of Charles O. Boyette, who died while in office. That term ends in 2019. After Boyette died, Steven Carawan was appointed to the seat held by Boyette. Carawan did not file as a candidate in the special election for that seat or in the general election for a four-year term available on the board this election cycle.

The Belhaven mayor serves a two-year term.

On the final day of the filing period, 12 candidates filed.

In Washington, 11 candidates are seeking seats on the five-member City Council. Mayor Mac Hodges is unopposed in his re-election bid. Incumbent council members Doug Mercer, William Pitt, Virginia Finnerty and Richard Brooks are seeking re-election. Former council member Gil Davis, William “Bill” Clark, Robert Sands, John Butler, Roland Wyman, Gil Alligood and Gerald Seighman are running for council seats. Councilman Larry Beeman is not seeking re-election.

The mayor and council members serve two-year terms.

There are two contested races in Chocowinity.

Mayor Jimmy Mobley faces a challenge to his re-election bid from Curt Jenkins,

who is in the middle of his first four-year term on that town’s Board of Commissioners.

Incumbents Louise Furman and William J. Albritton have filed for re-election.

Two of the four seats on the town’s board are available this election cycle. Elizabeth A. Ange is seeking a seat on the board.

The mayor and commissioners serve four-year terms.

Kellie Harris Hopkins, Beaufort County’s elections director, and others on the Board of Elections staff breathed a sigh of relief when Lee Bowen, an incumbent on the Washington Park Board of Commissioners, literally filed at the last minute for re-election. If Bowen had not filed by the time the filing period ended, the Board of Elections faced having to extend the filing period for the Washington Park Board of Commissioners election, according to Hopkins. All five seats on that board are available this election cycle.

Washington Park Mayor Tom Richter is seeking re-election, as are the four other incumbents on the Board of Commissioners — Belinda Cowell, Wade Dale, Patrick Nash and Jeff Peacock.

Aurora Mayor Clif Williams and incumbent Board of Commissioners members Patricia Bragg and Raleigh B. Lee are seeking re-election. Jeff Peed is seeking a seat on the board. Two seats on the town’s board are available this election cycle.

In an uncontested election, Patricia Duffer is seeking re-election to the Bath Board of Commissioners. The seat once held by Jay Hardin, who died earlier this year, is available this election cycle. David C. Johnson is seeking the other available seat on the board. The other seats on the board and the Bath mayor’s seat will be available in 2019.

In another uncontested election, Pantego Mayor Stuart Ricks is seeking re-election, as are incumbent Board of Commissioners members Mart Benson, Chuck Williams, Chad Keech, Robert W. Lilley and Reid Gelderman. The mayor and commissioners serve two-year terms.

12B • Wednesday, October 18, 2017 www.TheWashingtonDailyNews.com

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