Position/philosophy statement
Citizens First
Current Occupation
Writer, Researcher, Community Advocate
I'm a retired furniture industry editor-in-chief; a lifelong writer, researcher, manager and communicator with a career spanning the tech, government, lifestyle and retail sectors; and founder/editor of The Jamestowner, a nonprofit, all-volunteer citizens' information, testing and advocacy initiative calling for more action and response from our local government with respect to water and air quality monitoring, industrial contamination cleanup, lower property taxes, and fiscal accountability. I'm a 7th generation North Carolinian with Moravian and Quaker roots, and I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from UNC-Chapel Hill (1982).
1) The organizational structure, ordinances and procedural safeguards put into place by the Jamestown mayors, town councils and planning boards of years past are no longer working. 2) Jamestown's infrastructure, roads, and basic services are failing as our tax dollars are spent on an endless stream of sidewalks, park amenities, perks, studies, and million-dollar band-aids for decades of damage caused by chemical contaminants from industrial polluters and landfills. 3) Jamestown's elected and hired leaders are making it more and more difficult to get answers, data and public information; are dismissing serious issues and trying to delegitimize facts and data; and perpetuating an “us versus them” culture of citizen nonengagement.
I would start by advocating for a good old-fashioned reorganization led by a task force (of citizens, staff, council members and resident professionals) that would oversee an immediate and thorough assessment of Jamestown's organizational structure, staffing, permits, roads, river/stream conditions, water/air quality monitoring, "strategic plan," legal resources, tax assessment/appropriations process, ordinances and departmental operations. Findings would be presented in public forum(s) to ensure citizen input, and modifications made where necessary to ensure our resources, budgeting and staffing align with our priorities, needs and strategic goals.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Position/philosophy statement
Preserving our past, planning for our future
Current Occupation
Mayor pro tem
I am currently serving in my third term on Jamestown Town Council, and in my second year as mayor pro tem. Jamestown is my hometown, so I have a strong, lifelong connection to the area. I am currently vice-chair of the Old Jamestown School Association (Jamestown Public Library) board, co-lead a Jamestown-based Girl Scout troop, and volunteer regularly at the town's Litter Sweep, as well as other local community events beyond my service on Council.
1. Citizens should feel heard, valued, and engaged to serve on town boards and committees. Their connection to the community is vital.
2. Jamestown's infrastructure should be maintained at the highest level possible for long-term savings.
3. Any growth and development should enhance our area rather than detract from our small-town charm.
I am a community organizer by trade, and a natural "connector" and bridge-builder. I've known many Jamestown residents my entire life and am enthusiastic about bringing new and longtime citizens together to learn from one another and make positive change. I will work with staff, Council members, residents, and local business owners and volunteers to keep our collective focus on making Jamestown the best it can be.
Candidate has not yet responded.
