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Office you seek: Councilman, town of Whitsett

Occupation: Cabinet maker

Age: 61

Education: Some college

Address: 558 N.C. 100 Whitsett, NC

Email address: cabmkrken@aol.com

Previous elective experience: Four years, Whitsett Town Council

Other relevant experience (boards and commissions, etc.): Town of Whitsett delegate to Piedmont Triad Council of Government; active in fighting against Jordan Lake Rules, attended seminars to become knowledgeable of rules as they apply to the town; helped Planning Board in writing lighting, sign and architectural ordinances.

Why have you chosen to run for this office? I ran four years ago to assure that the wishes of the residents were voted and to assure that Whitsett was going to grow in a way consistent with the will of the majority of the residents. Most important, I like the town, its residents and the independence it represents and want to be part of insuring the good qualities stay and the town continues to grow sensibly and prosper.

Key qualifications you would bring to the job: The ability to listen to the will of the majority. The time to attend and represent Whitsett at informational meetings, seminars and other funcitons that benefit the town. The desire and ablility to sole the problems of the town with good sense and respect for all sides. I feel the last four years has been a true educational time, and I look forward to being able to use the education to help the town grow.

Family: Single, two adult sons

What distinguishes you most from your opponents? I feel all three candidates would do a good job and would serve the best interests of the town. I have tried to understand all the workings of the town both on a town level and as it relates to the county and state. I have tried to vote not my opinion but the will of the people. I will state my opinion though. I feel I can solve problems by using imagination and compromise.

Please list the top three issues in Whitsett and your stances on those issues: Growth and development. I believe in growth that has respect for the flavor of the town, respect for the residents and respect for the landowners.
Water and sewer. I feel we are close to a solution for our contaminated wells, but the job is not done. There may be other areas of contamination and I would like to see our water system expanded through grants. While sewer may be a long way off, it is not too early to start exploring our options.
Taxes, services and budget. While I am generally opposed to taxes, I realize that they are necessary for the health of the town. I am very aware that we are spending other peoples money and feel we need to make sure that it is spent prudently.

If you were to give Whitsett a letter grade on its effectiveness in managing growth, what would it be? B+

What vote or decision of the current council would you overturn? Why do you disagree with the decision?
Rejection of recycling. I feel it is not only ecologically necessary but is necessary to maintain the scarce landfill area we have left. I feel we missed an opportunity to have a reasonably affordable contract and shortly we will be required to offer it.
The initial tax rate. I don’t feel it was enough to balance our budget and allow us to maintain our facilities. I am opposed to tax rate increases every time you turn around.