by Saja Hindi

For Lynn Southern, the best business model for a school system is one that puts the focus on the classroom.

Southern, 63, is a retired teacher in Waxhaw who announced this week that she’s running for the Union County School Board.

“It’s like in any business: if the people who are doing the daily hands-on work are happy, it’s going to run a whole lot better,” she said.

Southern said after the administration’s decision to increase salaries downtown, she decided to run for a position.

“The reason I got involved is because I want to make sure teachers aren’t forgotten in the process,” Southern said.

Although she says she hasn’t been on the board or any committees previously, she has kept up with the news, having retired just at the end of last year after 15 years of teaching. The last eight years she worked at Marvin Ridge Middle and Weddington Middle schools. Before that, she worked as a teacher at Providence High School in Mecklenburg County. Throughout her teaching career, Southern taught 7th and 8th grade social studies as well as Government and Economics and World History in high school.

“I want to be there to ask questions about policies that are being presented at the School Board and make sure those policies are in the best interest of teachers and students,” she said.

Southern says while it’s not all about the teachers, if they aren’t supported, the whole system fails.

“Union County’s always had really great schools, and part of that reason is because it’s been able to attract great teachers from surrounding areas,” she said.

According to Southern, she isn’t out to change the entire school board or its focus, rather continue its tradition of encouraging and supporting teachers.

“I don’t feel there’s a need to come in and completely redo the school board,” she said. “I just think there are certainly stakeholders of the system that need to be refocused on. The school system has gotten away a little bit from supporting teachers as much as they could. And it’s like I said, in any company, management has to understand that they need to keep the people working for them happy to make sure they’re going to do the best job they can do.”

Everyone needs to be working together, she said, to achieve the highest level of education for the students because education is key for their futures. This includes teachers, administrators, parents and students, she said.

“These are the kids that are going to be doctors and lawyers and salesmen and dentists, and … in 10 to 15 years, they’re going to be doing these jobs, and we want them to have the best foundation they can,” Southern said. “It affects all of us.”

Southern is a mother and a grandmother, with three children and four grandchildren who all went through the public school system, her grandchildren now in Winston Salem.

“We’re very much supportive of public education,” she said.

There is a line in You’ve Got Mail that goes, “People are always telling you that change is a good thing, but what they’re really saying is that something that you didn’t want to happen just happened.” And for some inspiring or established Union County business owners “something that you didn’t want to happen just happened”, or will happen.

That’s because there continues to be an effort by politicians across the state and surprisingly many in the business community, to license professions in the name of consumer protection and public safety. But is their something else behind licensing some politicians and some in the business community don’t want you to know?

Before this question is answered, lets answer the question “what is a license?” Licenses simply give governmental permission for people to practice a profession of their choice.

When one thinks of licensing or licensing boards, perhaps lawyers or doctors come to mind, but licensing extends to other professions such selling flowers, interior designers, selling caskets, and even fortune telling.

Reason Foundation ranks North Carolina a dismal 13th, (snuggled up near Massachusetts), with the highest number of licensed required job occupations at 107 job categories. South Carolina ranks 47th.with just 60-occupations requiring licensing. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, one of the hardest hit due to these licensing regulations are small businesses which provide up to 80 percent of new jobs each year.

Business interests realize they could lobby politicians to use governmental regulations to limit competition. Many politicians, (some with good intentions), want to portray themselves as tough on consumer protections who license a profession to the detriment of those who want to enter that profession. These same business interests lobby to have themselves exempt from any new regulations, thus limiting competition.

Licensing boards, which are created to oversee the profession and protect the consumer, are substantially flawed. Politicians, who often don’t know anything about the professions they are licensing, appoint board members who work in that profession creating a gross conflict of interest. The results are boards who potentially protect their own, leaving the public with a false sense of security.

The poor, whom politicians’ say they’re advocates for, suffer the most from these egregious regulations. The very regulations that politicians put into place for “consumer protection”, carry burdensome and costly licensing requirements, often stopping those in pursuing a profession of their choice. Jobs that would help the poor including entry-level positions that require little education, or home businesses that require little start up costs, are regulated away.

Consider the battle between African style hairbraiders and licensed cosmetologists. In July, state law required hairbraiders to be licensed due to numerous complaints, not from the public, but from cosmetologists. Licensed cosmetologists generally don’t provide hairbraiding, but African style hairbraiders have made successful businesses doing it. Threatened by competition, cosmetologists complained hairbraiders where misusing chemicals even though it’s not in their practice to use any, and successfully lobbied politicians to license them. New comers who want to learn hairbraiding, who lack a formal education, and who are poor, can’t afford to spend thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours in cosmetology school.

Consumers always pay a high price for burdensome regulations, always-limiting competition, product choices, and services. One example lies in the potential licensing of automotive repair technicians. By doing so in the name of “consumer protection”, will reduce the number of entry level repair technicians due burdensome license requirements. Not only would there be fewer technicians making the cost of repairing a vehicle more expensive, it wouldn’t guarantee better service or repair quality.

You might ask, “what about consumer protection? How do we protect the public from unscrupulous business practices?” Licensing boards need to be held accountable to the pubic. A special commission can review board activity for disciplinary actions against licensees. If no actions are occurring, then licensing isn’t necessary. A law that would have licensing boards justify their existence periodically to the state legislature, would strengthen accountability. If the legislature finds a licensing board unnecessary, they would eliminate license requirements for that profession.

So blacks wouldn’t compete with whites during the 1950’s and 60’s, Jim Crow laws limited business opportunity for blacks by using licensing. The same tactics of reducing competition were used during Apartheid in South Africa, and still are being used on all Americans today. It’s shameful these business tactics still exist, but it can be changed by being aware it, and pushing legislators to enact reforms. Always, the freedom to make a living will always lead to prosperity.

Danny Figueroa

Tuesday, Nov. 8 was Election Day for most of Union County. We were not voting for president, senators, representatives, governor, state representatives, or even county commissioners. No, the ballots we were casting were almost entirely for local town councils and/or mayor. This was also the case in Indian Trail which is the largest municipality in Union County. Indian Trail also had three bond questions on the ballot for road and sidewalk improvements, and parks. It is a widely held view that your greatest chance of attaining visible results in government is at the local level.

I was hopeful as I stood at the polls asking people to vote for the candidates I supported that we would see a greater voter turnout than Monroe had a few weeks ago. There, fewer than 8 percent of the registered voters showed up. I thought, “Indian Trail is different. People are more involved here.” Over the course of the day my hope faded into despair as I realized that the turnout was going to be about the same. At the end of the day, out of 18,000 registered voters in Indian Trail, about 1,800 voted. That is a 10 percent turnout. Look at it another way and you realize that 90 percent of our citizens failed to vote for their local leaders or bond initiatives.

This is deeply troubling on many levels, but let me give you an example that drives home why your vote is so important. I was approached by an older gentleman at the Shiloh Elementary precinct. I gave him a flyer for the candidates I supported and then advised him I am a current council member in Indian Trail. He then asked me about the bond questions the council had placed on the ballot. He wanted to know why we had a question for a park bond on the ballot. He inquired if I wanted Indian Trail to have a park like Freedom Park in Charlotte, so that homosexuals and deviants would have place to go and indulge in sexual acts. He then shared with me his thoughts on widening Monroe Road, and stated that it would be a mistake to widen the road because Monroe had done similar things thirty years ago and the result was it brought low income people and blacks to town.

Subsequently, I learned that this gentleman had distributed flyers around Indian Trail with gross inaccuracies and misinformation designed to urge people to vote against the bonds. The flyer had no names on it and was not attributable to anyone. The greatest shock I received was when I learned that this man was a retired educator in Union County, and holder of a doctorate degree. I could not believe that someone so bigoted and filled with hate could have had an advanced degree and taught in our schools. He and I parted agreeing to disagree on the issues, but the encounter stayed with me. The despondent feeling I had about this exchange has not eroded with time.

The point I am making here is that this horrendous example of a human being votes. Not only does he vote but he does he best to drive the agenda he supports and will resort to disseminating inaccurate information in an attempt to coerce others into doing the same. Do you want the future of your town decided by such an ignorant individual? How do you feel that he may actually have convinced others to do the same and determine the course of the town you and your family reside in? Personally it makes me sick and I realize now I have great remorse that I did not respond more vocally at the time. I think I was shocked that these statements would emanate from a fellow citizen, and that such beliefs still exist in our free society. Chance encounters like this go a long way to helping me understand how the Nazis very nearly took over the world nearly 75 years ago. It is a toxic combination of citizen apathy and seething hatred embodied by those seeking control of others that can force us into a reality we do not understand. It is our apathetic tendencies we must confront and realize that we are in fact in control of our own destinies.

With that in mind, anyone who does not vote should be ashamed. We can only blame ourselves for our own inactivity. I don’t believe for a minute that the overwhelming majority of people in Indian Trail would agree with the racist views of the man I spoke to. However, with so few people voting there is a very real possibility that his views will matter more than yours. Do you still think your vote does not matter?

Gary D’Onofrio

Council member

Town of Indian Trail

I was born and raised in small-town Pennsylvania, so family, neighbors and community were a large part of my upbringing. After graduating in the top 10 percent from Pen Argyl High School, I received a bachelor of arts in politics from Wake Forest University. (Go Deacs!) I settled into the Charlotte area in 1995. That is when I met my wife, Sandy. We were married in 1998 and moved to Weddington shortly after our son, Scottie, was born in 2000. Our daughter, Anna, was born in 2003.

I have worked in the electronic automation industry for over 16 years. I have been fortunate to be with the same company for 14 of those years. I am the customer service manager for Sterling Services which allows me to serve businesses across the United States but also allows me to be at home with my family at dinner time.

In August of 2003, I was nominated by former Mayor Ed Howie, and appointed by the Weddington Town Council, to finish a term for a vacant seat on the Weddington Planning Board. At that time, being a member of the planning board also meant serving on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board; the Historic Preservation Commission; and for me, an alternate on the Board of Adjustments. This was the start of nearly eight years of my service to our community.

In addition to these town boards, in 2004, I was asked to head a new committee, tasked with studying and making recommendations for our town center. Through many name changes, I am currently chairman of Weddington’s Downtown Core Committee.

I am active in area sport leagues, both playing and coaching (yes, I still find some time to get out and play baseball). I started coaching my son at the YMCA in 2005, and have spent many a night there, at WCWAA or with Legacy Sports trying to do my best to help boys and girls get better at soccer, baseball, football, basketball, and life in general. Outside of my family, this is the most rewarding for me.

As you can see, while I have moved my roots, I have not left them. I have been, and will continue to be committed to our community.

Why am I running?

I have been very active in the community for 11 years. The Town of Weddington has worked hard to keep its rural character while being part of one of the fastest growing counties in North Carolina. I think it’s important to have proven leadership to continue to move Weddington forward without losing our past.

What is my experience?

I have been involved with the Town of Weddington and have interacted with the Weddington Town Council for over eight years.

Planning Board (current)

Board of Adjustments (current)

Chairman of the Downtown Core Committee (current)

Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee (current vice-chair, past chair)

Local Area Regional Transportation Plan Steering Committee member

Historical Preservation Commission (current)

My involvement has given me a good understanding of what is important in this election and ultimately Weddington’s wants and needs over the next four
years.

Do you support the town’s move to create a municipal fire department? If not, how would you address the problems affecting the Providence volunteer fire department?

Barbara Harrison: I do support the resolution that has been given to the county commissioners. However, a detail plan must be developed carefully analyzing the impact of a municipal fire department to the town of Weddington and all the costs associated with it and how to minimize the additional fire fees to Weddington’s citizens but maintain the same or better coverage.

Hughie Sexton: I do support the town of Weddington creating a “municipal fire district” that will allow Weddington to control it’s own fire district, set the parameters, and designate Providence Fire Department as the primary service provider for that particular fire district. Wesley Chapel VFD would have a negligible effect, while Stallings VFD would not be affected at all.

Jerry McKee: I am in favor of looking into a municipal fire district. It is very important that all residents of Weddington be involved and informed about this issue.

Ken Evans: Weddington has taken a historic step forward in providing a realistic fire and medical service for its citizens. It is my understanding, a municipal fire district, has never been created in the state of North Carolina. By this action, Weddington will become the model for all other townships that desire to provide the same emergency services within their communities.

We will now enjoy local control of our emergency services and the tax rate. Some of Weddington’s citizens pay a fire tax and some a fire fee. The new fire tax will be equitable for all of our residents. We will no longer pay a fire tax/fee and then have some of our property tax dollars used to augment emergency services. Or in other words, no double taxation.

Weddington will be in a position to redraw the emergency service lines. This will enhance response times, where as, the closes fire station will now respond. This is not the case today. The Providence Volunteer Fire Department, at the present time, is under utilized. By the council’s action, this very valuable asset will now be fully utilized.

When, I am elected to the Weddington Town Council, I will work very hard to insure that we have the best trained emergency personnel with the best equipment. I will also do this at lowest possible cost to the tax payers of Weddington.

Pam Hadley: Yes! Government’s first priority is the public safety of its citizens. I support Providence Volunteer Fire Department. The current system dictates that a fire station almost 5 miles away is called for a medical emergency and not my local department that is a quarter mile away. All citizens of Weddington deserve equal vital services at the same cost. The current resolution of our town council for Weddington to become a municipal fire service area will accomplish just that. Providence would be the primary department for the town. Wesley Chapel Fire Department and Stallings Fire Department could be contracted to cover areas based on distance and response time. All citizens will then have the closest station respond plus have access to 24/7 staffed fire and EMT services. All citizens will pay the same tax rate.

Scott Buzzard: Public safety is the number one priority of local government. The deputies and fire fighters that we have in Weddington do a tremendous job. Through no fault of Weddington, there is under-funding of fire safety in parts of the town. This problem was not created overnight, and unfortunately, will not be solved overnight. While there is an on-going effort for Weddington to become its own municipal fire district, I would not support Weddington creating it’s own fire department. If Weddington were to try to create its own fire department, it would force an increase in taxes and place an added burden on our residents while the economy is still very volatile. What I do support is Weddington working to create a solution that best benefits our residents, the town, our neighbors and all the local fire departments. As a member of the steering committee for the Local Area Regional Transportation Plan, we worked with the county, state and our neighbors to create a long-range plan that would benefit everyone. A similar effort will be necessary to work through the fire funding issues.

Residents have questioned why a water tower that would not help their neighborhood should be placed near their homes. Would you support a Weddington water tower or water tank? If so, should the town pay a portion of the cost?

Harrison: Everyone should know that I don?t believe that a water tower belongs in Weddington since it does not meet the criteria of the land use plan and even though the council rescinded their vote, the county commissioners can still build a tower where it has been proposed. A water tower will forever change the landscape of not only Weddington but the surrounding areas, lowering property values and giving the perception that Weddington does not care about individual property rights but more about future commercial development.

Since the vote has been cast and directly affects me and my neighborhood, Providence Acres, the Loves and Mel Graham’s property, I would support a water tank that should not be funded by Weddington.

Sexton: I do not support a water tower inside Weddington for any reason. Over 80 percent of the town of Weddington is currently on well and septic, and the water tower or tanks are not needed. The county should place the water tower in that part of the county where water pressure is needed, and stop playing political paddle ball with this issue.

McKee: It is true that a water tower or tank will not affect Weddington at the present time…There will be a water problem in the future because 80 percent of Weddington homes are serviced by a well…I favor a storage tank and will not support a water tower or the town of Weddington sharing in the cost.

Evans: I support water tanks in Weddington; however, the water tower/tanks should be placed at N.C. 16 and Rea Road on the back of the property. This location is the number one location per the county engineers and would be the least visible. That being said, I also am concerned about how the water tank will be built (size 20 feet high or more, landscaping). Will they look like the fuel storage tanks at a Houston oil refinery?

I do not feel the tax payers of Weddington should pay for any of the additional costs. Eighty percent of the Weddington tax payers do not have access to water or sewer thus they should not pay for a service they do not receive. The additional water services (water tanks) should be paid from the users fees that are charged by the Union County Unities commission. These fees are for the water and sewer system to be improved and maintained.

Hadley: My opinion is that water towers should be located only in commercial or industrial areas and not residential. Research shows that counties are increasingly using tanks vs towers and I support that trend. This is a county project to benefit all of western Union County and Weddington should not be obligated to spend our taxpayer dollars on a county project. Union County Public Works is funded by their users and as such should use those funds for upgrades, expansions, etc.

Buzzard: The water tower highlights why this town council election is important, and who is most prepared to continue to be engaged for all of Weddington’s residents. Both water and sewer are handled by Union County. Nearly two years ago, our local volunteer fire station presented information to the planning board on a potential fire safety issue for Weddington residents where there is not adequate water pressure at the fire hydrants. So there is a problem. According to town ordinances, water and the mechanisms for its distribution are essential services, so legally there are not too many options we can exercise if we are pressed by Union County. We do, however, have a unique opportunity because the county is currently working through its master plan. I believe that town leaders should be proactively engaged with them to find the best location for a water tower that has minimal impact on existing residential property. Working together, I believe there is a solution that would eliminate the need for Weddington to fund the more expensive water tank/pump station options.

Does the town of Weddington need a park? If so, how would you fund it?

Harrison: Many citizens would like to see Weddington have a park and the first question that comes to mind for me is what functions would the park perform? Is it a park that would be used for a gathering place? i.e. similar to Matthews where there would be concerts, movies etc? Or is it a park that would serve as a gathering place and also have a playground, walking and biking trails and picnic areas similar to the parks in the surrounding towns. Regardless of the type of park, grant money, individual landowner donations and business donations should comprise the funding not money from the town.

Sexton: I do not support a park at this time in Weddington. Currently, there are several parks close to Weddington like Francis Beatty Park that are very close and accessible to our residents. Additionally, many subdivisions already have their own park for their own homeowners’ association members.

McKee: Recent surveys have indicated that the majority of residents are in favor of a park..There are a lot of ways to help fund a park, among them are (1) apply for matching funds from N. C. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund and (2) solicit funds from the private sector.

Evans: A park would be nice. I will support a park if the costs are acceptable.

My main concern is how a park would be paid for with the high cost of land and construction in Weddington. I believe the park would become cost prohibitive. I will not approve a tax increase to build a park.

Hadley: Presently there is a pavilion/park being discussed by town council. While I agree with the venue I do not support the location in the ‘back yard’ of town hall. This location does not provide for future growth potential or adequate parking needs when hosting community events. It is also an expense that should be postponed until after our fire service needs have been resolved.

I do not support a hodgepodge, piecemeal growth for Weddington. I would like to see a master plan that supports the amenities that serve the citizens of Weddington. then work the plan.

The pavilion/park as a ‘gathering place’ for events could easily be incorporated into this master plan and the cost could be deflected to the developer, business sponsorship and possible grants.

Buzzard: Personally, I love parks. I have spent thousands of hours either playing or coaching in public parks. I have been an active coach at Wesley Chapel-Weddington Athletic Association for the past seven years. I also currently serve as the vice chairman of our Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. But even with that, I believe that you have to listen to what the residents of Weddington want. The recent surveys revealed that the taxpayers don’t want to pay for a town park, and I believe they should be the ones to decide.

Should Weddington work to develop a “downtown” area? If so, does that need to include more commercial property?

Harrison: The Weddington town council has defined the “downtown” area as the Weddington Corners shopping area and the buildings including Town Hall on 84. We need to support and promote the current businesses that already exist and until the town has a clear vision of what Weddington should look like in 25 years it is hard to answer what the needs of a ?downtown? area should include

Sexton: The residents of Weddington have expressed their desire repeatedly for no more commercial development in the downtown area. However, some members of the current town council and mayor have tried to circumvent the wishes of the citizens of Weddington by continuing to pursue this effort. Most citizens of Weddington want our town to stay unique, family oriented, and safe, plus there’s an abundance of places to dine and shop within a short drive in every direction.

McKee: We currently have a downtown area which includes the Weddington shopping center and medical buildings…There are a lot of vacancies that need to be filled..I believe the town can work with the owners to make it more attractive so that businesses such as a restaurant and other small shops will be willing to open a business in Weddington

Evans: I believe the town should explore some mixed use development. That may include small shops, office space and a restaurant. But, not big box stores, such as Wal-Mart, Kmart, etc. I would be in favor of a retirement type complex in Weddington.

Hadley: Feedback that I have heard while campaigning has been in support of more ‘sit down’ restaurants. I would agree to small shops, to pull in the traffic for those restaurants with for instance, a Fresh Market, Lavender Spa and Nail, coffee/bakery shop, ice cream shop, etc., all built with the facade that fits the ambiance of our unique community. I would not support any big box stores. We have plenty of Targets, Kohl’s, PetSmarts in close proximity.

Buzzard: Weddington has a downtown business district. As the Chairman of Weddington’s Downtown Core Committee, I have worked hard to ensure our downtown is safe and vibrant, so it can be a destination for our residents. I would hate to see our doctor offices and local boutiques continue to leave, creating the potential for a bunch of empty shops that would increase crime and decrease property values. But I do not believe that this should come at the cost of the rural character that we have all come to love. Weddington will need leaders that can proactively balance the two.

Looking at the town’s budget, which this year included purchases for iPads for council members to use, is there anything you would do differently? Is there something you believe is a priority the town didn’t spend money on?

Harrison: I believe that every year, the budget should be created by doing a zero based budget and that there should be more discussion on the dollar amounts, how they were derived at and how you can obtain services etc while spending the least amount of money.

Public safety is a priority and with the growing incidents involving the use and selling of illegal drugs in our area, I would like to see money budgeted for 24/7 police coverage for Friday through Monday.

Sexton: Yes, the town needs to discontinue the Weddstock Dog & Pony Show that has cost the taxpayers of Weddington over $40,000 the last two years. The wrongful and self serving use of our tax dollars needs to stop. If the majority of the town council decided IPads would be beneficial, then I see no harm with that purchase.

McKee: After doing a lot of research and contacting other towns who had started or were thinking of going paperless, the town decided to go paperless with regards to its agenda packet… The estimated savings from printing cost and staff time is approximately $250 to $300 per month. With this savings the town will recoup its cost in less than three years … Just think of all the trees the town will be saving. The town started its budget process in March 2011 at our annual retreat. From then until the budget was approved in June 2011, the council looked at every detail that was presented to insure that they were not wasting tax payer money.

Evans: Improve fiscal spending, by keeping inconsequential projects from being approved. Thus, we will be able to maintain Weddington’s low tax rate. Spending on iPads, placing funds in the budget for a library needs to be eliminated until it is determine where and when the library will be built. I will not approve any project that dose not benefit the vast majority of Weddington citizens.

Hadley: As I have stated time and time again, Weddington has three huge issues on the front burners….public safety, the water tower and the WCWAA issue. Just like we do in our own homes, if a big bill is on the horizon we need to be fugal with spending. stop the spending until these issues are resolved! Then, and only then should the town be spending its reserves on non-essential services.

Buzzard: As I mentioned before, public safety is the number one priority of local government. This past year, Weddington spent close to 80 percent of the $550,000 collected from property taxes on public safety. So, I think that our priorities are definitely in order. The iPads were purchased to not only reduce office supply expenses, but also to provide a more efficient, reliable opportunity for Weddington staff and residents to contact council members. I was lucky enough to receive my iPad for Father’s Day in 2010. I definitely see the value that it could bring to the town.

My name is Roger Stanton, and I am running for Indian Trail Town Council. I am a husband and father of four: three active boys, and one growing-up-too-fast daughter. My wife, Amy, and I moved to Indian Trail for a better quality of life and a lower cost of living. As natives of Palm Beach County (we were both born and raised in Lake Worth, Fla.), we observed firsthand what uncontrolled growth can do to a community and its quality of life. Indian Trail became our new home during the summer of 2008.

I was appointed to Indian Trail’s Town Council in July, 2011 to replace John Hullinger following an interview process with eight other applicants. In the three months I have served, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed meeting staff, residents, and small business owners who make up our  town. Since my appointment, I’ve committed myself to learning even more about our town and its present, and future, needs.

Why am I running?

Indian Trail is nearly perfect. But, in recent years property values across the nation have crashed. Although we’ve been somewhat insulated in Indian Trail, we’ve still felt the pinch. Recently, we had more properties than any other time in our history where the mortgages owed were higher than the actual market values of the properties. I’m the only candidate talking about the need to preserve and strengthen our property values, and offering plans to meet the need.

I want to maintain our record low tax rate. I’m committed to decreasing our residential tax base from 80 percent to 60 percent by increasing our commercial tax base. Commercial properties pay much more taxes than residential properties. By attracting new businesses, our residential property owners will share less of the tax burden.

I’m also committed to serving as a positive influence on town council for all of Indian Trail. I’m conscious of the division some are saying exists in Indian Trail. As Barney Fife would say, I want to “Nip it! Nip it in the bud.” I have committed myself to being available for meetings with individuals, neighborhoods, HOAs, and other gatherings regardless where their address is in Indian Trail. My contact information is available on the Town Council web page.

My experience

I have served as president of Blumer & Stanton, our family’s 65-year-old architectural woodwork company, since 1996. This company was founded in 1946 by my great-grandfather, grandfather and great uncle. Growing up in the business, with its 25 to 30 employees, taught me the value of relationships, respect and civility in getting things done.

I served 10 years on the board of AWI Florida Chapter, a state wide trade association. My positions included Vice President and President. I also served as the state representative to the Development Council for AWI National, the association’s national parent organization.

Most recently, I have been appointed and serve on Indian Trail’s Town Council.

My beliefs about leadership, teamwork and the government

I provide a calm attitude and a positive voice for our town council. The best decisions for Indian Trail can be discovered when past differences are set aside, and each new issue is approached from a fresh perspective. It can be refreshing to agree with someone you often disagree with!

Listening to others helps me shape my decisions, which are always based entirely on the balance of what is best for the majority of our town for the immediate, short and long term. Personally, I prefer an approach that makes consideration of our small town rural roots along with our current pattern of growth, to create planned, structured growth for our future. While I may serve only four years, I recognize the decisions I make on town council often provide direction for future decades.

Government’s role is to serve the people, whether it is providing for public safety, safer roads, the best parks, or sidewalks and bike lanes. My responsibility in government is to support that role.

Why this election is important

Three council seats and the mayor will be elected. Each of these will serve four year terms. Three council seats represent a quorum on the town council, meaning leadership of the town is available on Tuesday, Nov. 8.

As your councilman, I will commit to being available to you and respectful of your positions regardless how they match my own opinions. Save this piece, and remind me of it, if at any time during the next four years you feel otherwise. I ask for your vote to continue serving you in Indian Trail. Thank you.

To learn more, go to:  www.ElectStanton.com

My name is John Grexa and I am running for the Wesley Chapel Village Council. As we draw ever closer to Election Day Nov. 8, I thought I would take an opportunity to share with you what I stand for.

Who am I:

I made Wesley Chapel my Home in August of 2004. I reside here with my wife of 21 years, Donna, and my two daughters, Jacqueline, a junior, and Danielle, a freshman at Weddington High School.

After serving as a New York City Police Officer for five years, I went back to college and graduated from Mercy College Suma Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in History and Secondary Education. On a new path as an educator, I began teaching 8th Grade Social Studies and coaching Volleyball, Girls Basketball, and Boys Lacrosse. I also took on roles as a Student Council Advisor, Team Leader and Department Chair. It was during this time that I also completed my Master’s Degree with Distinction in Instructional Technology.

Upon moving to Wesley Chapel, I began my teaching career in Union County at Forest Hills High School. While there, I began working on my Add-On in School Leadership and in March of 2007, began working at Sun Valley Middle School as an Assistant Principal; first in the role of 7th Grade Administrator and currently as 8th Grade Administrator.

Some thoughts:

Recently, I received a hand out from two candidates touting what they did on the Wesley Chapel Master Plan Committee in 2006 to 2007, and I thank the ladies for their service.  However, it is important for the residents of Wesley Chapel to know that the master plan has never been adopted!  As a member of the Village Planning Board for the past five years, I see this as a pivotal time to be on council. With the town hall on the drawing board and moving ahead, the town center continuing to be developed, Dogwood Park entering its construction phase, efforts to contract a deputy, and discussion about the Carolina Thread Trail being routed through the village, It is imperative that we elect candidates that support  these initiative in a fiscally responsible manner.  I don’t support just one of these initiatives but promise to see each of these projects through to completion on budget and without having to raise taxes.

I know as a council member I will be instrumental in being the voice of the people.  If elected, I will hear and listen to the concerns and wishes of the citizens of Wesley Chapel. I also feel it’s important to ensure that the rural flavor of our community is preserved even with growth.  I believe we need to continue to strengthen the feeling of pride and sense of community here in Wesley Chapel, maintain and increase the property values of homes in the village, and to work together to make this the very best possible place to live and raise a family.  With your support I can make this a reality.

Why am I running? As a current member of the Village Planning Board, I see this as a pivotal time to be on Council. With the Town Hall on the drawing board and moving ahead, the Town Center continuing to be developed, Dogwood Park entering its construction phase, and discussion about the Carolina Thread Trail being routed through the Village, I know as a Council member I will be instrumental in being the voice of the people. If elected, I will hear and listen to the concerns and wishes of the citizens of Wesley Chapel and will work to reflect them through my actions.

I also think it’s important to be on council to ensure that the rural flavor of our community is preserved even with growth. I believe we need to continue to strengthen the feeling of pride and sense of community here in Wesley Chapel, to maintain and increase the property values of homes in the Village, and to work together to make this the very best possible place to live and raise a family. This can be achieved through focus on the Village’s identity and by promoting the assets of the Village to those looking to move here and invest in our town.

What do you hope to accomplish?

1. Create a community meeting space through enhancements to the green areas of our six acres that encourages gathering opportunities as originally proposed years ago.

2. Ensure that the Town Hall is used to benefit all the citizens of Wesley Chapel. I feel the Town Hall will further instill a sense of pride and legitimacy in our community once completed and operational.

3. Focus on the continued safety of our Village residents by supporting the efforts to contract a deputy and evaluate and secure EMS in Wesley Chapel.

4. Work to complete Phase I of Dogwood Park, to promote a place of enjoyment for our community, within the budget constraints set forth in the five-year Capital Improvement Plan.

5. Work closely with Council Members and the Developers of the Town Center to ensure that it will supply the maximum benefit to the residents of Wesley Chapel, now and as it continues through to completion.

6. Being fiscally responsible and ensure that all the current projects and initiatives the Village is pursuing are completed at their allotted budgets, without raising taxes.

7. To strengthen the feeling of pride and community of the citizens of Wesley Chapel, to maintain and increase the property values of homes in the Village and to work together to make this the very best possible place to live and raise a family.

8. To retain the rural flavor of our community, through growth, and to make decisions that will have the greatest possible positive impact on the citizens of Wesley Chapel now and for the future.

Michael Sailors: My first priority is to get the town council and mayor working for the best interest of Indian trail as one unit. The negative energy and wasted time has to be in the past. The citizens of our town suffer and this will stop.

To accomplish this we six need to go into a closed door session until all or any issues are resolved, so when we come out the town wins having the leadership united with the best interest of all of Indian Trail at heart.

Our town deserves to have people representing it with the town’s best interest at heart, not the current, since-I-didn’t-get-my-way-I-am-going-to-cause-drama, scenario. Those days are gone as of Nov. 8 if I am elected.

In the town survey this year, 53 percent of residents asked for road improvements. What road do you feel should be the top priority, when it comes to improvements and repairs?

Sailors: Old Charlotte Highway has been long overdue for widening. This project should have been foreseen many years ago, not just three or four.This road is a two lane grid lock every morning and every afternoon due mainly to almost three fourths of the town’s population living on the Old Charlotte Highway side of U.S. 74.

As a council member, if you do support road improvements, how would you pay for that?

Sailors: It is simple to say road improvements are the state’s problem, but I disagree it is our daily traveling town citizens’ problem. The state will someday eventually get around to repairing/widening roads but doesn’t mean they will come to Indian Trail to do this next. I am sure it is proven if you will pitch in to help the state with monies for the project you request, they find a way to move the project up dramatically on the list if you contribute to the fund. This has been proven by the current council already. The best way to do this is have the referendum on the ballot for the citizen to vote for. If the citizen want and need the project moved up, we should all be willing to contribute to the cause. When you look at the minimal amount of money per month, the savings in gas will offset this cost.

Economic development was also a focal point of the survey, with only 22 percent satisfied with the amount of jobs in town. What should the town council’s role be in bringing business to the town?

Sailors: The town council should solicit companies to look at our town for one. We can then work with developers and property owners to try and help with build out cost for the companies. The council should be able to offer incentives to lure companies to our town. One of the bonds actually will be helpful in this task.

Law enforcement in Indian Trail has been an ongoing question. Do you support keeping the contract with the Sheriff’s Office? Explain why or why not.

Sailors: Yes, I fully support the Sheriff’s office. The town survey indicated the citizens are happy with the department. The deputies do a fantastic job. I have never heard a complaint from a law abiding citizen about the deputies.

Does Indian Trail have enough contract deputies to cover a population of more than 30,000? Please explain why or why not

Sailors: At the present time, Yes I feel we have enough deputies. We are getting close however to maybe needing to add a deputy but at the present I do not believe this expense is needed. I have not heard or read where the sheriff dept. has said they are spread too thin or over worked.

Do you support the three bonds up for a referendum this November? Please explain why or why not

a. Approving $4.5 million for park improvements

Sailors: Yes, I fully support all three bonds. Simple answer is if we want to continue economic growth and continue to keep our residential tax base lower than any surrounding community we need these bonds. Yes, the tax base will go up a minimal amount but in the big picture the bang for the buck outweighs the slight increase. The park bond to me is an area this town has needed for years. Why do we want our citizen to go to Stallings or Matthews for a park? We need a large gathering place designed for families of Indian Trail.

So we the citizens of Indian Trail can go to our park and have pride we have the best park in the
county.

b. Approving $7 million dollars for sidewalk repair and general improvements

Sailors: This goes back to the luring companies to our Town. If we have a fund set up to work with companies to help pay for their entrances, they will be more in tune to moving here. If we see the need to repair intersections in 2 years and we have the monies in a fund, we approach the State and work out a solution to improve our Town NOW, not in 10 years.

c. Approving $10 million to widen Old Monroe Road to four lanes

Sailors: Without widening Old Charlotte Hwy, several restaurants won’t even consider moving here. This not counting the simple fact the roads is busting at its seams every day. I have heard candidates talking about these bonds will make your taxes go up dramatically, but not one of them has ever produced a fact to back these statements. The simple fact is with taking a house costing $150,000.00, the bonds will raise the taxes $4.96 per month. Using this amount for a house cost, citizens can easily see where the real numbers are. As I stated earlier the cost savings in gas alone not driving to the movies, not driving to the restaurants, not sitting in traffic, not driving the family to a park out of our town clearly pays for the increase in taxes.

I have been a resident of Indian Trail area since 1988. I have seen our town grow leaps and bounds and I am willing to dedicate the time and positive energy to continue this growth for our citizens. I am ready for our town to be a town of envy for those that don’t live here. We are so close to having this if we just keep the positive growth moving forward.

Editor’s note: There are two seats open in the town of Stallings this year, as current council members Renee Hartis and Thelma Privette declined to run again. In District 2, Larry Falcone will run against Shawna Steele. In District 4, Fred Weber will face Ira Bostic.

Define your vision for the town

Fred Weber: My vision of Stallings is a town that continues to have a small town appearance with small town government. With the proposed bypass and the widening of U.S. 74, I foresee a big change coming to Stallings. We must stay connected as a community and not allow a road to separate us. We must also not allow special interest issues to separate either the town or its government. No doubt it will be a challenge. But with the input of our residents and a responsible and committed town council this can be achieved. I see a town government that uses all resources available, and will advance the idea that partnering with our neighboring towns can be a profitable option. Share the cost and share the benefits. Above all we must be mindful of the economic impact on the taxpayers, you and I. In order for the Town of Stallings to work towards an interconnected community, you need a Council Member who is 100 percent committed to the welfare of its citizens and will continue to encourage growth and development. For this exact reason my vision is “we are in this together.”

Ira Bostic: Vision is the optimum word that will define where we as a town will be in 2021. I look back to 2001 and how much Stallings has grown in population, from 3,189 residents in 2000 to 13, 831 residents in 2010. With so much rapid growth we need a proactive plan in place to preserve the character of the town and provide a quality of life our residents expect and deserve. In order to realize this we must have a sustainable government, meaning we live within our means. Stallings has much to offer both existing and prospective businesses provided that we find ways to reduce or streamline our permitting and regulatory processes, and the ways we perform the basic city functions. By demonstrating that we embrace a business friendly environment, with fair and even handed administration, we will retain existing businesses and attract new ones. As we continue to grow we must do so in a responsible manner, ensuring that we retain our attractive neighborhoods while observing basic property rights. I will work to maintain what is successful and endeavor to improve what is not.

Larry Falcone: Stallings is a quiet small town that is searching for its identity. The mayor and current town council members appear to have a plethora of different ideas in which direction the town should proceed in order to come up with that identity. My research leads me to believe that Stallings does have a plan, which was adopted in 2005/2006, for the future and that plan needs to be reviewed by the finance committee. Once reviewed by the committee they should then present their recommendations to the council. If elected I will strive to move forward with a review of said plan.

Shawna Steele: Revitalize the U.S. 74 corridor once the Monroe Bypass is built, expand our infrastructure to encourage smart economic development, connect the town with more sidewalks. Maintain the level of service of our Stallings Police Department. Preserve the current tax rate. Enhance listening to the citizen’s survey, promote our town as a great place to live and raise a family, shop, and work

Do you think Stallings needs more businesses/commercial properties? If so, how would you go about bringing them in?

Fred Weber: I do think Stallings needs more businesses in order to create a more profitable ratio of residential to commercial. We can do that by supporting the infrastructure that new businesses need and want.  We need to partner with the county to accomplish this.  We have to put something into the game if we expect to profit from it. Stallings has to have the proper infrastructures in place to attract new businesses into our town. The town council and town committees must work actively with Union County, Monroe and Indian Trail in planning the development and revitalization that will be created by the U.S. 74 widening. If we want to draw new businesses, we have to be ahead of the curve. We have to make it easier for businesses that want to stay or new businesses that want to relocate to our Town. We can accomplish this with research, planning and cooperation with our neighbors. We can pay for these improvements by putting off or delaying some of our wants and investing in our needs along with partnering with other communities.

Ira Bostic: Yes, Stallings needs more businesses. I am definitely pro-business. Stallings real estate tax base is 79 percent residential and 21 percent commercial. 53 percent of our annual revenue comes from property taxes. Balancing the commercial-residential ratios would be beneficial in a variety of ways. Stallings has dealt with industry recruitment reactively rather than proactively in the past. Our efforts in the next decade must out of necessity be defined precisely. First we have to establish our image, exploit our strengths, and decide where we want to go before attempting to attract new industry; Defining assets and opportunities broadly can yield innovative strategies that capitalize on our town’s competitive advantage. In almost any setting, urban or rural, small or large, low tax rates, access to skilled labor, major highways, railroads or professional services might all be considered economic development assets. We can’t afford to stop there, however. Given limited sources of competitive advantages, we must redefine all our strengths and create a dedicated economic development function. If elected I will draw upon my 45 years experience in business and industry to promote economic development in our town in a professional manner.

Larry Falcone: To be a viable, cohesive town we need to attract the type of businesses that will employ not only adult and senior residents but also our eligible teenage residents. By providing our youth which such opportunities we will help make them feel more like a part of our community and lead them to become better citizens. Stallings needs some marketing advice on the type of businesses we need to attract and to come up with a plan to recruit the type of companies that the market study identifies.

Shawna Steele: Absolutely, since the non-residential taxpayer requires less services compared to a residential taxpayer, it is the best interest of the taxpayer to encourage commercial development. The residential taxpayer will receive more for their money.

One criticism from residents has been the property tax rate, currently at 21.5 cents per $100 of valued property. Next door, Indian Trail has triple the residents and a 14 cent rate. Is there any way you could/would lower the rate?

Fred Weber: Comparing Stalling to Indian Trail is like comparing apples to oranges. There are many differences: size, population, residential to commercial land use ratios and services are just a few of the differences. The recent survey returned by Stallings residents indicates that they are satisfied with the service they receive from the town. Rather then making comparisons I believe we should be looking for ways to lower our taxes by reducing wasteful spending. The council and the town departments have made progress in this area with new initiatives. I will continue to support those efforts. We must also demand a higher quality of work performed by housing developers and builders, particularly road construction. Developers are not businesses that come to stay and support our town, they come here to make money and then move on. Development roads that were improperly built in the past are starting to decay and repairs are becoming an expense that Stallings now has to pay. Road building requirements and especially frequent and timely inspections by our qualified engineers will eventually save taxpayers money. I will ask for a better type of quality control over those that are skimping on projects for profit. We must not allow inferior construction practices to continue.

Ira Bostic: In order to answer that question correctly one has to understand several things about tax rate versus tax base. Many people don’t know the difference and make wrong assumptions. Indian Trail has three times the number of residents and a greater number of homes which creates a larger residential tax base. They also have a larger commercial tax base. One cent on Stallings tax base yields about $120,000 in revenue, while one cent on Indian Trail’s tax rate yields approx. $295,294 in revenue because of the larger tax base. Thus Stallings must have a higher tax rate to generate the same amount of revenue. The way to reduce the tax rate is to increase the base through more commercial development, or hotel taxes, etc. which are paid by visitors to the town rather than our citizens. The other way is to reduce expenses. Stallings already operates with a lean budget for general government. Our police department requires 31 to 35 percent of the total public safety annual budget; while Indian Trail’s public safety costs are considerably less both dollar-wise and percentage-wise. Stallings residents value our police department and feel that our public safety expense is justified. I do not see any viable short term solution to cut the tax rate at this time.

Larry Falcone: If Stallings had the same population as Indian Trail we could most certainly lower our tax rate. However, the latest surveys show that the majority of residents enjoy the services that are provided, such as our own police department. Within 18 months there will be a new real estate assessment and the tax issue will be vigorously debated. Assessments will decrease dramatically (some say as much as 30 percent) and the tax rate will have to be adjusted in order to continue the excellent service we now receive. I would favor lowering the rate but not at the expense of cutting services.

Shawna Steele: I think comparing us to a town that is almost triple the size of Stallings is not a fair comparison.  One should compare towns of the same size and what services are offered for a more accurate read if the Stallings tax rate is too high or too low.  After this, the council could possibly adjust the tax rate accordingly.

We’ve seen the proposed Sportsplex idea change shape multiple times over the last year. Is this idea something you support? If so, why?

Fred Weber: Given the current economic conditions my view is we should not exceed our ability to pay for something many consider recreational. The idea that hotel and restaurant developers will be lining up at town hall to locate in Stallings because of a sport complex is not likely. Any type of multi-use sporting facility must be built with private money and have solid commitments from those that want to have future use of it. “If we build it, they will come” is too big of a risk in this economy. I am in favor of parks, walkways, recreational and sports areas for our residents, but I am not in favor of spending all the town’s savings on projects that have not been fully investigated and researched. Our youth deserve every opportunity to participate in the sport of their choice. I will support improvements in the park areas we now have. I strongly oppose reducing the town’s savings account to build a large sports complex. A move that will result in a tax increase, a reduction in services and staff layoffs to pay the everyday expenses that are required to run the town.

Ira Bostic: I support the idea of a sports complex/recreational facility. What form it may evolve into, or the time span it requires remains to be seen. An ad hoc committee was appointed recently to research the subject very exhaustively. I am one of the committee members chosen. The committee is utilizing strategic planning methods to determine strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to such a venture. A marketing and demographics analysis is being conducted. Visits and talks with various communities that have sport complexes, such as Monroe, Matthews, Rock Hill, and Pineville have been conducted. The YMCA has demonstrated an interest in Stallings, along with other private entities who may want to be part of a joint venture. Projected costs of various facilities, including land requirements and land costs will be reviewed, and all aspects of doing a project of the magnitude we envision will be carefully analyzed before making a report to town council prior to year-end. I believe having a modern, professionally executed recreational facility would be an asset to Stallings, both for our residents, and as an economic generator.

Larry Falcone: I would support a Sportsplex but only if it were a private enterprise such as Carolina Courts in Indian Trail. If we are smart and use some of the infrastructure already in place such as the I-485 corridor or possibly the Bypass corridor (if approved) I think we could attract a revenue producing enterprise without tying up any of Stallings funds. I have a plan in mind and whether I am elected or not I will present it to town council in the near future.

Shawna Steele: The Sportsplex concept is a great idea on paper.  However, there are too many unknowns to determine if it is a feasible project for the town.  Once there is a business plan and more facts are known, then there will need to be a determination if the project is an investment and risk that the town (aka taxpayer) is willing to take.

The citizen survey highlighted road/transportation improvements as the main thing residents want to see. How can the council help bring this along?

Fred Weber: Sidewalk repairs are also high on the list of priorities. They must be repaired. Many of the deteriorated roads and traffic problems are on roads that are state controlled. We must work with state authorities to eliminate problem areas. I firmly support the building of sidewalks and bike paths that will not only connect our neighborhoods but will make the roads a safer place for both pedestrians, bikers and automobiles. The town survey should play a pivotal role in determining how the town moves forward economically. Ignoring the voices of our citizens is not only detrimental to the community, but could have negative effects on everyone’s wallets. It is time to improve and repair what we have. Making repairs now could save money over the long term. We must also accomplish this without changing the character and stability of our town. I will propose and vote for a council approved economic development plan that will provide us with spending guides for improvements to neglected infrastructures over the next five years.

Ira Bostic: I firmly believe that we must keep our streets, roads and sidewalks in the best possible condition, and utilize the available funds judiciously for repairs and improvements. I have gained valuable insight into the town’s streets and roads maintenance programs through my service on the Transportation Advisory Committee for the past four years. Roads and sidewalks are inspected and prioritized according to condition, and careful consideration is given to maintenance decisions. I indicated in my platform the priorities I considered vital for ongoing roads and transportation maintenance and upkeep. They are:

Establish a capital reserve fund for road maintenance and improvement.

Make streetscape enhancements to Stallings road and major intersections. Continue sidewalk building to connect communities

Larry Falcone: The Future of Stallings Plan adopted in 2005/2006 that I mentioned in the first section outlines what should be done with most all of our roads in different corridors. As mentioned, that plan needs to be thoroughly reviewed by the finance committee. Town council and the mayor then need to act on the finance recommendations keeping in mind that any decision has to be done with fiscal responsibility. We have positive reserves but any road project can make that reserve evaporate. We will need state and federal assistance in upgrading our roads and we must lobby both to insure that Stallings receives our fair share of revenue. It seems as though a good number of small towns like ours get left out of the revenue sharing process. With major highways like U.S. 74 and the proposed bypass and of course I-485 nearby, we need to convince them that it all starts with Stallings, the gateway to Union County. Our Town can become a showcase not only for our citizens but for Union County as well if road improvements start on the Mecklenburg side of the border instead of further east.

Shawna Steele: I think the new council should be innovative and creative when it comes to the road/transportation improvements, especially in this economy. The Council should explore the new ideas of working with other municipalities and/or developers to share some of the expensive cost of roads.