The News-Journal sent out questionnaires to each of the three candidates running for Mayor of Raeford, and the three candidates running for two seats on the Raeford City Council. All six of the candidates responded.
The candidates for mayor are Demetria Barker Augugliaro, Jeremy Hollingsworth, and John K. McNeill (incumbent). The candidates for Raeford City Council are Charles Allen (incumbent), Shirley Hart, and Wayne Willis (incumbent).
The offices are nonpartisan. Early voting for the municipal election is now open. Election Day for the municipal election is Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
CANDIDATES FOR MAYOR OF RAEORD
Demetria Barker Augugliaro, Candidate for Mayor
I am Demetria Barker Augugliaro and I am on an assignment to serve as your next Mayor of Raeford.
I am an U.S. Veteran, a nurse, a graduated of Hoke High Class of 1988 and a proud member of this community. I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing and two Associate Degrees, one in General Education and the other in Arts. My evangelical journey has always been centered around serving others. Whether in the military, healthcare, or community work, I’ve learned that true leadership begins with listening and caring for others.
Raeford is a special place and is expanding. That’s a good thing, but growth must be smart, fair, and community driven. As your Mayor, I will take an holistic community centered approach to sustain Raeford and our city’s future. For example, when neighbors come together for something as simple as a Community Garden, it creates ripples throughout the community. For our seniors on fixed incomes, it’s a lifeline that cuts down on grocery bills. For everyone, it’s a chance to dig in together, build connections and grow something bigger than ourselves, cultivating physical and financial wellness right here at home. This is just the start. That initial success is what will give us the momentum to push for bigger health initiatives, like bringing mobile mammograms, blood drives, and the expanded mental health support our residents deserve.
A few of our biggest challenges are job growth, affordable housing and making sure we have safe and clean neighborhoods. During the next 10 years, I foresee challenges in keeping up with this ongoing growth. We need more business opportunities, stronger community programs, and better relationships between local government and citizens. As your Mayor, I will work to bring public transportation and jobs into our city.
A Mayor’s responsibilities are leading the city forward, managing public services, ensuring safety, and guiding community growth for the benefit of all residents. I have held many leadership roles throughout my life and after studying some of our local laws and ordinances, visiting different local and state meetings, I understand the workings of our city. As Mayor, I will uphold all ordinances and statues of the city while incorporating the community input. At this time, we need a fearless Mayor that will lead, especially during this time of budget cuts.
Raeford has always been a town built on community, education and hard work. As Election Day approaches, my hopes and prayers are that the community will see me not just as a candidate, but as a neighbor ready to serve.
Jeremy Hollingsworth, Candidate for Mayor
Name: Jeremy Hollingsworth
Education: Hoke County High School Class of 1993, Bachelors Speech Communication, Fayetteville State University, Masters Speech Communication, Morehead State University, Adult and Higher Education, Morehead State University Christian Counseling, Liberty University
Your profession: Teacher at Hoke County High School, Adobe Design & 3D Modeling & Animation, Pastor, Christ Free Will Baptist Church & Love Grove Free Will Baptist Church
What does the Mayor of Raeford do?: According to the University of North Carolina School of Government, the role of the Mayor in North Carolina is limited by design. Under G.S. 160A-67, the Mayor presides over city council meetings and has the authority to call special meetings when needed.
Beyond these duties, the Mayor serves as the voice and face of the city, representing Raeford at official ceremonies, community gatherings, and special events. Most importantly, the Mayor acts as the primary representative of the citizens of Raeford, ensuring their voices and concerns are heard throughout the city’s leadership.
When you vote early, October 16 – November 1, or on Election Day, November 4, you’ll be voting for a Mayor who listens to your concerns, speaks up for your concerns, and fights for your concerns; whether right here in Raeford, at our state capitol in Raleigh, or in our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. The Mayor will be a proud citizen of the City of Raeford.
What are your goals in running for Mayor of Raeford?: With the limited powers granted to the Mayor, the Mayor of Raeford must truly serve as the voice of the people. That begins with having an open ear; listening to the concerns and ideas of our citizens. As I walk through our community and speak with residents while seeking your vote, here are the priorities I intend to bring before our City Council on behalf of the people of Raeford.
First, smart economic growth. Not just growth for growth’s sake, but strategic and balanced development growth that supports our environment, recreational needs, and social priorities, while keeping Raeford one of the safest communities in North Carolina. Secondly, a stronger partnership with our educational partners. We must strengthen our relationship with local schools and the broader education system to build a stronger, better prepared community; one that develops future leaders who will live, work, and lead right here in Raeford.
Thirdly, infrastructure for the future. It’s time for a solid, innovative infrastructure plan that supports Raeford’s future growth and ensures that progress happens with both purpose and sustainability. As technology continues to advance, integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into how we manage and plan our city will be essential. AI-driven tools can help improve our development strategies and optimize the use of our energy, water, and waste management systems, leading to smarter and more sustainable city operations. In addition, these technologies can enhance public safety and improve the services we provide, helping us build a Raeford that’s more efficient, connected, and prepared for the future.
Lastly, stronger community connections. A thriving city is built on strong relationships between neighbors, families, and generations. That’s why we must create and expand social programs that serve our residents across all stages of life. For our aging population, we need to partner with programs and spaces that allow our seniors to gather, stay active, and continue contributing their wisdom and experience to the community. Whether through senior activity centers, wellness initiatives, or intergenerational programs, our elders deserve safe, welcoming places where they can connect and belong.
For our youth, we must explore partnerships with schools, churches, and local organizations to develop mentorship opportunities, recreational activities, and after-school programs that keep our young people engaged, supported, and inspired. By investing in their growth today, we are shaping the future leaders of Raeford.
When families can come together, parents, children, and grandparents alike are in safe and meaningful spaces, which strengthens the entire fabric of our community. My goal is to ensure that families can live, learn, and play right here in Raeford without needing to travel elsewhere for recreation, connection, or opportunity. Together, we can build a city where everyone, from our seniors to our youth, feels seen, valued, and connected to the heart of Raeford.
How do you know enough about Raeford, local policies, and issues of concern to serve as an effective Mayor?: I am deeply connected to this community. Over the years, I have hosted and participated in numerous public forums, creating spaces where citizens could sit down and talk openly about their concerns and hopes for Raeford.
Before the passing of one of my greatest supporters, William Hollingsworth, Jr., a former Hoke County School Board member, we worked side by side, mentoring young people, especially young men, encouraging them to dream bigger and become active contributors to their community.
Through community conversations on WMFA 1400 Radio, I’ve remained committed to staying informed about local and state policy issues. These discussions aren’t just empty chat room conversations; they’re about understanding the challenges our citizens face and finding ways to turn ideas into action.
We know that Hoke County is growing, but too often, people don’t feel connected to the City of Raeford itself. That must change. We need to remind everyone that the heart of
this county is Raeford and that our city is working tirelessly to create a place of prosperity, fun, and opportunity for all who live here.
While we understand that the Mayor’s role may come with limited formal powers, we must also recognize the unlimited power of ideas, creativity, and leadership. Raeford needs a Mayor who will bring innovative thinking and turn those ideas into concrete, actionable plans that move our city forward.
As Mayor, I am committed from day one to serving this city with enthusiasm, youthful energy, and unwavering passion. My dedication to Raeford is not just political; it’s personal. I love this community, and I am ready to lead it toward its next chapter of growth and greatness.
What are the biggest challenges facing the City of Raeford right now? What about the challenges you foresee coming in the next 10 years?: A few challenges facing the City of Raeford right now include parking in our downtown area, which will become an even greater concern once the new courthouse construction is completed. There is also a pressing need for affordable housing; specifically homes and apartments with more than two or three bedrooms to meet the needs of growing families. We want to help our citizens move from a season of lack to a season of opportunity where every resident can access good paying jobs and begin building generational wealth for their families.
Looking ahead, there is no reason to fear the next ten years if we start preparing today. We must be proactive; reaching out to growing industries and embracing innovation, to ensure Raeford remains a city of growth, stability, and promise for all.
What needs to improve in Raeford, and what can you do as Mayor to support those improvements?: Raeford is a growing city with tremendous potential but growth must come with a plan. One of the most immediate issues that needs attention is parking in our downtown area. As new development continues, especially with the completion of the courthouse,
parking will become more limited. We must take a proactive approach, developing a downtown parking strategy that supports local businesses, visitors, and residents, ensuring that downtown Raeford remains accessible, welcoming, and economically strong.
Another critical area for improvement is sustainable development. We must be thoughtful about how we build; by protecting our green spaces, avoiding unnecessary clear cutting, and promoting environmentally responsible construction practices. Sustainability isn’t just about preserving beauty; it’s about building a city that will stand strong for generations to come.
At a broader level, Raeford needs to clearly define what we want our future to look like. We can no longer rely on growth to happen by chance. Instead, we must plan our progress with purpose. That means working closely with our economic development team to attract new businesses, expand entertainment opportunities, and create a thriving local economy that encourages residents to live, work, and spend right here at home.
As Mayor, I will bring a strategic, forward thinking approach, one that balances growth with sustainability, opportunity with responsibility, and progress with preservation. My goal is to make Raeford not only a place where people live, but a place where families grow, businesses flourish, and the community thrives together.
What can you do as Mayor to make sure that residents’ concerns are heard and receive a response?: The same effort it took to earn your trust and get into office is the same effort it will take to maintain my credibility as your Mayor. I will continue to walk the streets, talk with our citizens, and stay connected to the real needs of our community.
I plan to hold three to four town halls each year so we can hear directly from our residents, discuss concerns, and work together to find real solutions.
While any citizen can come to a city council meeting and speak during public comment, I want to go a step further to create more opportunities for open dialogue outside of
formal business meetings. These town halls will allow us to listen, share ideas, and bring meaningful solutions to the table.
Another avenue to pursue could be a digital town hall. Where we could stream live Q&A sessions on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube where residents can comment or submit questions in real time.
I believe a listening tour could work with a community cookout. That could take place in various parts of Raeford; in our schools, community centers, or businesses, where residents can speak freely. These options are limitless how our citizens’ concerns are heard. The work of making things happen only comes when the city council and I, the Mayor, can work on a plan to get answers for our citizens.
This kind of leadership promotes true transparency, and I want every citizen to know that they matter; their voice, their input, and their involvement are vital to the health and growth of our community.
The first thing I need is for the citizens of Raeford to get out to vote, Vote Jeremy Hollingsworth for October 16 – November 1 in one-stop voting at the Board of Elections, or on November 4.
What would you do as Mayor to represent the city to other communities and officials?: When a Mayor represents the city, the job becomes simple yet powerful: to articulate who we are and tell our story with passion. The Mayor serves as the mouthpiece and the loudest cheerleader for the City of Raeford, championing our people, our progress, and our potential.
The first step toward building pride and recognition is to craft our city’s story; a story rooted in community, growth, and resilience. Then share it boldly across every platform: locally, statewide, and nationally.
Raeford deserves to be seen and heard. As Mayor, I will make sure our city’s voice is clear, confident, and celebrated wherever I go.
How can Raeford maintain its own identity as a community in the face of ongoing growth and development?: The real question is: What is our identity? For too long, Raeford has been known as a bedroom community to our neighboring cities and counties. It’s time for us to define who we are and who we want to become.
I believe we are in a transitional moment, a time to redefine the City of Raeford. We have great things happening and great people doing even greater things. That’s our story today, and it’s the foundation for the bright future we’re building together. I want the City of Raeford to become an All-American City; a recognition that tells the world we’re ready to be seen, ready to grow, and ready to prosper.
Under my leadership, Raeford will never be an afterthought. When I go to represent our great city, they’ll say, “Here he goes again!” because I won’t stop talking about the new things happening in Raeford and the opportunities on the horizon.
I’m ready to tell our story of resilience, strength, and tenacity.
Vote Jeremy Hollingsworth for Mayor, during Early Voting, October 16–November 1 at the Board of Elections, and on Election Day, November 4, at your polling place.
Together, let’s build the Raeford we all believe in; you won’t regret it.
What’s one thing you love about the City of Raeford?: I’ve lived in Raeford since returning home from college from Morehead State University, where I met my wife, Mary Hollingsworth, of 24 years. This city has been good to us. I love the small town feel and the sense of community that make Raeford special. We’re perfectly located; close enough to everything we need, yet always able to come back home to the peace and comfort of Raeford. It truly is the hidden gem of the Sandhills. I love the people, I love the community, and I love this place I proudly call home.
Why should citizens vote for you?: Citizens should vote for me because I am deeply invested in Raeford, not just as a candidate, but as a lifelong resident and family man who loves this community and believes in its potential. I understand the heartbeat of this city because I live it every day.
I’ve walked these streets, listened to our citizens, and shared in both the challenges and the triumphs that make Raeford who we are. Whether I am standing in the pulpit or standing in the streets, you will receive a consistent message of hope, resilience, growth, and safety.
I bring energy, vision, and commitment to this role. My approach to leadership is rooted in service; listening first, acting with purpose, and leading with transparency. I believe that true leadership doesn’t come from power; it comes from partnership. As Mayor, I will work side by side with our citizens, city council, and local organizations to ensure that every decision moves Raeford forward.
I want to see a Raeford that grows smartly, sustainably, and inclusively; a city that provides opportunity for our youth, support for our seniors, and a strong foundation for families and businesses alike.
Most importantly, I will bring a new energy to city leadership; one that’s innovative, accessible, and focused on building connections. I will represent Raeford proudly wherever I go and make sure our city’s story is told with conviction.
Vote Jeremy Hollingsworth for Mayor, because Raeford deserves leadership that listens, serves, and delivers. Together, we can shape the future of our great city.
For more information and updates on this election, follow me at www.HollingsworthforRaeford.com
John K. McNeill III, Incumbent for Mayor
Name: John K. McNeill, III
Education: B. A. in Political Science, Elon University M.A. in Counseling from East Carolina University
Profession: Retired School Counselor, J. V. Basketball and 9th grade football- Currently Mayor of Raeford
What does the Mayor of Raeford do?
1. Moderator City Council Meetings 2. Represent the city at church functions not only in the city, but also in the county, ribbon cuttings, school events, museum tours for the fourth graders and being a role model and leader for the city. Interacts with city employees by speaking in a positive manor about the city and other activities.
What are your goals in running for Mayor of Raeford?
In my last term I would like to see the Robbins Height project and the Upchurch Lake projects completed. I would also like to continue to be available for people with concerns and compliments for the area.
How do you know enough about Raeford, local policies, and issues of concern to serve as an effective Mayor?
My last four years in office speaks for themselves.
What are the biggest challenges facing the City of Raeford right now? What about the challenges you foresee coming in the next 10 years?
Our police department needs more room and our city garage is too small to handle maintenance and equipment. In 10 years from now water and sewer infrastructure will be a problem.
What needs to improve in Raeford, and what can you do as Mayor to support those improvements?
Raeford has homes that are deserted and/or in disrepair. We need to find some way to fix this situation. As mayor I will advocate for any type of program that will improve this situation.
What can you do as Mayor to make sure that residents’ concerns are heard and receive a response?
I am always open and willing to listen to individuals concerns as has always been the case.
What would you do as Mayor to represent the city to other communities and officials?
I would speak about Raeford’s small town atmosphere. I serve on the Regional Land Use Activities Commission and the Fayetteville Area Metropolitan Organization.
How can Raeford maintain its own identity as a community in the face of ongoing growth and development?
Raeford will always maintain its identity as a welcoming and pleasant place to live and raise your children.
What’s one thing you love about the City of Raeford?
Raeford is full of friendly people.
Why should citizens vote for you?
My twenty years of experience is a big factor.
CANDIDATES FOR RAEFORD CITY COUNCIL
Charles Allen, Incumbent for City Council
Name: Charles Allen
Education: I have received a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Campbell University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management degree from UNC-Pembroke. I am a Hoke County High School graduate.
Profession: Pharmacist
What does a Raeford City Council member do?: A Raeford City Council member represents the citizens of the City of Raeford, NC by approving an annual budget, setting local ordinances, approving zoning permits, setting the tax rate for the citizens of Raeford, and approving contracts for various city projects.
What are your goals in running for Raeford City Council?: My goals for being a member of the Raeford City Council are to maintain the progress the city council has achieved in the past years on various projects, including keeping the city tax rate low, improving park redesign and added playground equipment in Robbins Heights Park, McLaughlin Park, and an upcoming park and pond project on the south side of Raeford, new fire truck, personnel and equipment for the City of Raeford Fire Department, rehabilitating the waste water treatment plant, updating the downtown business district with façade improvements and encouraging new businesses to the area.
How do you know enough about Raeford, local policies, and issues of concern to serve as an effective member of the City Council?: I have served the citizens of Raeford as a City Council Member for 12 years and I have been working on the various ordinances and improvements to the city.
What are the biggest challenges facing the City of Raeford right now? What about the challenges you foresee coming in the next 10 years?: The biggest challenges facing the City of Raeford right now are the expansion of services and facilities for the city. The fire department is needing more volunteer fire fighters and more paid fire fighters. The police department is in great need of more space for officers and equipment. The city services, like water and streets, are in need of additional working space. Challenges in the next 10 years will include the same departments as the population grows, so will the need for additional services. With the improvements with highway 211, more people with be looking for housing and services in Raeford.
What needs to improve in Raeford, and what can you do as a City Council member to support those improvements?: Raeford needs more restaurants and shopping establishments. With the anticipated improvements in highway 211 and increased population from surrounding counties, the need for services industries is increasing and the City of Raeford welcomes entrepreneurs who want to provide those services to the citizens.
What can you do as Raeford City Council member to make sure that residents’ concerns are heard and receive a response?: Residents are always welcome to attend city council meetings and provide input to the entire council, or to contact any of the city council members or the city manager with needs or questions of concern.
How will you work with the other City Council members, Mayor, city staff, and other officials for the good of the City of Raeford?: I have, and will continue to encourage conversations with other council members, staff and other officials.
How can Raeford maintain its own identity as a community in the face of ongoing growth and development?: The citizens of Raeford can ensure Raeford’s identity will be maintained by electing Raeford citizens running for office who strive to keep Raeford’s integrity in place.
What’s one thing you love about the City of Raeford?: I love that Raeford is a safe community with a small town charm. I grew up in Raeford and remember being able to walk down Main Street, or any other street, without a care or fear of any harm coming to me. I raised my children in Raeford with that same comfort. It is my goal to provide that same comfort to the children of Raeford and their children.
Why should citizens vote for you?: I currently serve as the Mayor Pro-Tem, and have served on the City Council for 12 years. I have the citizens of Raeford as a main concern with every vote on ordinances, zoning request and decision that I place as a city council member and I will always have the good of Raeford as my main deciding factor in my decisions.
Shirley Hart, Candidate for City Council
Name: Shirley Hart
Education: Certified Peer Support Specialist, Community Health Worker, and Recovery Coach; Extensive continuing education in community engagement, recovery support and harm reduction.
Profession: Executive Director, Tia Hart Community Recovery Program – a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by substance use, homelessness, and mental health challenges in Hoke County.
What does a Raeford City Council member do?: A City Council member serves as the voice of the people, ensuring that decisions about budgets, policies, and community development reflect the needs and values of Raeford residents. Council members collaborate with the mayor, city staff, and the public to shape a safer, healthier, and more vibrant city.
What are your goals in running for Raeford City Council?: My goal is to bring compassion, accountability, and transparency to local government. I want to strengthen community partnerships, enhance economic development, support beautification initiatives, address housing and public safety concerns, support youth and seniors, and ensure that recovery and mental health resources are accessible for all residents.
How do you know enough about Raeford, local policies, and issues of concern to serve as an effective member of the City Council?: I have lived and worked in Hoke County for many years and have been on the front lines addressing some of our community’s toughest issues – addition, homelessness, unemployment, and lack of access to care. Through Tia Hart, I’ve built relationships with residents, churches, law enforcement, and local agencies, which has given me a deep understanding of Raeford’s challenges and strengths.
What are the biggest challenges facing the City of Raeford right now? What about the challenges you foresee coming in the next 10 years?: Right now, we face challenges with affordable housing, parking and meeting the needs of continuing growth. In the next 10 years, we must prepare for population growth, infrastructure demands, and preserving our community’s identity amid development pressures.
What needs to improve in Raeford, and what can you do as a City Council member to support those improvements?: We need stronger investment in housing, youth programs, and small business development. As a council member, I will advocate for community-driven solutions – such as expanding affordable housing initiatives, improving public transportation, and supporting organizations that provide workforce development, education and recovery support.
What can you do as Raeford City Council member to make sure that residents’ concerns are heard and receive a response?: I will have an open-door policy whereas I will hold regular community meetings, create open lines of communication through social media and town halls, and ensure that residents have a seat at the table in decision-making. Listening to people and following up with action will be my top priority.
How will you work with the other City Council members, Mayor, city staff, and other officials for the good of the City of Raeford?: Collaboration and respect are key. I believe in teamwork, open dialogue and shared goals and recognizing that at times there will be disagreements, but open communication is key. My approach will be grounded in transparency, relationship-building and focusing on what unites us – our shared love for Raeford and a desire to see it thrive.
How can Raeford maintain its own identity as a community in the face of ongoing growth and development?: By honoring our roots, supporting local businesses, protecting our historic and cultural spaces and ensuring that growth doesn’t push out long-term residents. Smart, inclusive planning that respects our history and values can help Raeford grow while staying true to who we are.
What’s one thing you love about the City of Raeford?: I love the sense of community and resilience in Raeford – the way people come together to help one another in hard times. That small-town heart is something you can’t replace but have to be mindful not to lose as we continue to grow.
Why should citizens vote for you?: Because I care deeply about Raeford and its people. I bring a servant’s heart, proven community leadership, and a track record of turning compassion into action. I’m not running for a title – I’m running to make a difference. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier, and more united Raeford.
Wayne Willis, Incumbent for City Council
Name: Wayne Willis
Education: I attended North Carolina State University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree.
Profession: In 2019, I retired from my position as Division Breeder Manager at Butterball after 43 years in agriculture. I continue to be involved in our local family livestock business with my son in law.
What does a Raeford City Council member do?: I have been fortunate to serve the City of Raeford as a councilman for the last 16 years. In this role, I have learned that Raeford City Council Members have several key responsibilities involving city operations and serving the residents of Raeford. The city council meets the first Monday night of each month, sometimes more often if needed. Items discussed at the meetings include: approval of the city’s annual budget, analysis of monthly financial reports, review of local ordinances and zoning matters, and evaluation of departmental reports such as police, fire, water, sewer, sanitation etc. Council members must always be available to hear from city residents with concerns and suggestions on how to make the City of Raeford a better place to live.
What are your goals in running for Raeford City Council?: I am running for re-election for city council that I may continue to serve the residents for the betterment of Raeford. I look forward to continue to work with other council members and city staff to ensure our annual budget is financially sound, as well as providing the necessary resources for city departments to keep Raeford operating in the best possible manner. Other key projects I would like to address are: improvements to Raeford’s water treatment facility, improvements to city parks as laid out in our master parks plan, providing additional fire department staff when financially feasible, and additional office and storage space for our police and utility departments.
How do you know enough about Raeford, local policies, and issues of concern to serve as an effective member of the City Council?: I am blessed to be a 3rd generation native of Raeford. I was born in this amazing town and have lived here all my life. I enjoy the simplicity of living in a small town where you know all your neighbors and can feel safe walking the streets of downtown. Raeford is not just a city, it is a community where residents support one another, value many of the same things and can depend on each other in times of need.
Over the years I have been involved in several local community boards such as: the Raeford Hoke Chamber, Partners in Education, and the NC Turkey Festival. I served as a volunteer fire fighter for the City of Raeford for 20 years before serving as a city councilman. Living in Raeford for more than 60 years as a resident, employee, and employer along with my involvement with local boards has given me knowledge regarding the local issues Raeford faces. Each city is different and faces different needs and challenges. I believe it is important for our councilmen be a long-term resident in Raeford in order that they can understand the specific needs of our city and serve effectively.
What are the biggest challenges facing the City of Raeford right now? What about the challenges you foresee coming in the next 10 years?: One of the biggest challenges in Raeford is “never enough money” to cover new projects under development. Proposed projects include: additional space for police and utility departments, completing park improvements, and additional parking for downtown Raeford. Balancing the budget with the available revenues from property taxes is always a struggle for city staff and councilmen. We need to continue to look for funds through sources like grants, which can help progress with these new projects and help downtown business owners with expenses such as building repair, upgrades, and maintenance so these properties continue to remain safe and are a vital part of the city’s aesthetics on Main Street for many years to come. Raeford is growing rapidly, therefore it is critical we plan ahead and control this growth to a manageable rate as not to exceed available resources which could put a burden on existing taxpayers. Growth can be a good thing and has been in our city as downtown businesses have expanded and new businesses opened. I believe this growth has given residents pride in their community, but growth must be managed in a way that benefits everyone.
What needs to improve in Raeford, and what can you do as a City Council member to support those improvements?: The City of Raeford has always had a city council which works together to make sound decisions which are in the best interest of Raeford and its residents. Over the last few years, the council has obtained grants totaling $13,000,000 that helped fund many projects such as improvements to McLauchlin and Robbin Heights Park, downtown buildings’ façade improvements, stormwater improvements, sewer plant improvements, state directed grant for infrastructure repairs and automated meter reading infrastructure. If re-elected, I will continue to work with other council members and city staff to find new sources of revenue through private gifts, private grants, state, and federal grants to help fund more of these projects.
What can you do as Raeford City Council member to make sure that residents’ concerns are heard and receive a response?: I encourage City of Raeford residents to stay informed; attend monthly council meetings, get involved with local boards, check the city website, and read the local newspaper. I am always available and more than happy to hear any ideas or concerns. Additional information may be attained by scheduling a meeting with the city manager or his staff. Contact information is available on the City of Raeford webpage at www.raefordcity.org
How will you work with the other City Council members, Mayor, city staff, and other officials for the good of the City of Raeford?: As previously stated, the current council, mayor, and city staff have worked well together over the years to make the best decisions for the city, staff, and residents. I hope to continue that endeavor.
How can Raeford maintain its own identity as a community in the face of ongoing growth and development?: I love the hometown feeling Raeford offers. Our beautiful downtown continues to grow and have more to offer residents and visitors. Growth can be positive but must be orderly and controlled. We accomplish this by enforcing local ordinances and zoning regulations. The regulations the council puts in place are never meant to hinder residents, but to help Raeford continue to be a wonderful place to live.
What’s one thing you love about the City of Raeford?: What makes Raeford special is its people. Raeford’s friendly, civic minded residents are always ready and willing to serve on committees or civic groups, and volunteer for community events. Not to benefit themselves, but because they love their town and want to do their part in making Raeford a wonderful place to live.
Why should citizens vote for you?: I would appreciate your vote for Raeford City Council that I may have the opportunity to continue to serve Raeford by working on new and existing projects which benefit our city. I believe my service as a councilman for the past sixteen years shows that I have the passion and commitment to ensure Raeford continues to operate in a sound financial manner and ensure future growth does not outpace our ability to serve residents.