Title: Town Manager

Municipality: Town of Blowing Rock

Position Interested In: At Large - Manager

Q&A's:

Tell us why you would like to serve in a leadership position at the League. In particular, specify goals you would like to accomplish as an officer or board member and indicate how, if attained, they will help to achieve Vision 2030 – the League’s future vision of how cities and towns will operate in 2030?

My candidacy for the NCLM Board of Directors is driven by a deep commitment to ensuring that the voices of small, rural communities, particularly those in Western North Carolina, are heard and valued. Historically, this region has faced representation gaps, and I am determined to bridge them.

My approach to municipal governance is rooted in collaboration and a proactive problem-solving mindset. As a current member of the Watauga Housing Council and the Watauga Children's Council, I am actively engaged in addressing critical issues such as workforce and affordable housing, as well as affordable childcare, which are vital for the sustainable growth of our rural communities. The challenges posed by recent events, such as Hurricane Helene, underscore the urgent need for robust and effective representation for Western North Carolina.

Furthermore, my proven track record in infrastructure development demonstrates my ability to plan and execute complex projects successfully. In the past five years, the Town of Blowing Rock has completed over $10 million in essential water and sewer line replacements, and we are currently planning substantial overhauls of our water and wastewater treatment plants. This experience equips me with the practical knowledge and strategic foresight necessary to address the infrastructure needs of municipalities across the state.

I believe my collaborative approach, dedication to rural community development, and expertise in infrastructure planning align strongly with the goals of Vision 2030. I am confident that I can be a valuable asset to the Board, advocating for the unique needs and challenges of all North Carolina municipalities."

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Tell us about your experience as a municipal official. You may want to include information on your service on the municipal governing body, other related boards and special areas of interest?

My qualifications for the NCLM Board of Directors are rooted in a unique blend of hands-on municipal and county management, regional leadership, and deep financial expertise. I possess a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing North Carolina's rural communities, gained through my experience as Town Manager of Blowing Rock, County Manager of Alexander County, and Executive Director of the High Country Council of Governments, where I served 26 rural member governments. This direct experience is complemented by 15 years in governmental auditing and consulting at two CPA firms, providing me with a statewide perspective across all 100 counties. My ability to navigate the complexities of local governance, coupled with a strong foundation in financial accountability, makes me a highly qualified candidate to contribute to the NCLM's mission of strengthening North Carolina's municipalities

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Tell us about your educational background, professional experience, and/or community or civic activities?

I have a background that stems from a strong foundation in financial stewardship and a deep understanding of municipal governance. I hold a BSBA in Accounting from Appalachian State University, and for 15 years, I served as a governmental auditing and consulting specialist at two reputable CPA firms. This experience equipped me with a comprehensive knowledge of GASB standards, financial reporting, and the fiscal challenges faced by local governments. I am confident that my unique perspective, rooted in rigorous financial accountability, will be a valuable asset to the NCLM Board. I am committed to leveraging my expertise to support the League's mission of strengthening North Carolina's municipalities and ensuring sound financial practices across our communities. I am active in a number of organizations listed in my resume, as discussed above including the Watauga Children's Council and the Watauga Housing Council.

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Have You Participated in Any NCLM Events or Committees? 

• CityVision Annual Conference

• Town & State Dinner or Town Hall Days

• Legislative Goals Planning Events or Process

• Regional Meetings