WIZS Radio 5pm News Segment 1 From 10-18-23 Henderson Municipal Election Canvass
Mayoral Runoff Election Early Voting Starts 10-19-23
Geocoding issue resolved
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Elections Board Calls Recess In Canvass Process, Putting On Hold Certifying Oct. 10 Election Results
UPDATE 5 P.M. WEDNESDAY, OCT. 18, 2023
Mayoral Runoff Election Early Voting Starts 10-19-23
Geocoding issue resolved
WIZS Radio 5pm News Segment 1 From 10-18-23 Henderson Municipal Election Canvass
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ORIGINAL POST UPDATED 5 P.M. TUESDAY, OCT. 17, 2023
The Vance County Board of Elections has called for a “recess” in the post-election canvass process – that 10-day window following an election that officials have to verify and certify results.
This action comes one week after the Oct. 10 nonpartisan municipal elections in Henderson that included contests for four City Council seats and a four-candidate field for mayor.
A runoff had been set for the mayoral contest, but those plans also were put on hold earlier today, per the N.C. State Board of Elections. The recess means that none of the contests have been certified.
In a meeting held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Vance Board of Elections Chair James Baines issued the following statement:
“The Vance County Board of Elections is recessing Canvass completion for the Municipal Election that occurred on 10-October-23 because the State Board of Elections has not yet completed the investigation regarding the geocoding issue. Canvass will reconvene once the State Board of Elections notifies the County Board of the completion of the investigation and resolution to the issue.”
As elections board members explained, the process of certifying election results considers all contests as one process; results must “be submitted to the state at once,” board member Cathy Clodfelter said Tuesday. So because all of the results have not been certified, none of the contests has been certified.
Earlier Tuesday afternoon, Vance County Board of Elections Director Jennifer Cocklin informed WIZS News that early voting – set to begin in two days’ time – would not begin as previously announced.
Cocklin read the brief statement to WIZS News from the state board of elections:
“The results of the 10-October-2023 Vance County municipal election have not been officially declared by law, therefore the run-off election cannot be called for at this time.”
A glitch in geocoding is at the heart of the issue, and elections officials acknowledged the state board of the possible problem. As part of election coverage to announce the unofficial results on Oct. 10, WIZS included a statement from Baines that was issued after the polls had closed:
“The Vance County Board of Elections is aware of a geocoding issue that may have caused some voters in the city of Henderson elections to receive a ballot in Tuesday’s election that did not have the correct alderman ward contest. The County Board immediately notified the State Board of Elections, which is working with the county to determine how many voters’ ballots were affected. Election night results are always unofficial, and the post-election canvass process will ensure that the votes are counted correctly for each contest. Election officials will provide additional information about this situation as it becomes available.”
Cocklin provided few details about next steps, but she said she has provided information to the state board as it is requested.
“They’re asking us and we’re providing information as quickly as we can,” she said. “The only thing I know is they are working on it,” she said, “meeting every day – at least once every day.”
Just in case you need a refresher course in civics, here’s some information from the state board of elections website:
“Results on election night are unofficial. Canvass is the official process of determining if the votes have been counted and tabulated correctly, resulting in the authentication of the official election results.
For close elections, the canvass period is especially important. During this time, elections officials count absentee ballots that came in before the deadline and research provisional ballots to determine whether they should be counted.
In every county, the canvass meeting when the results are certified is 10 days after Election Day. Because elections thrive on transparency, the canvass meeting is open to the public.”
The Local Skinny! Henderson Mayoral Contest
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Significant updates and changes have occurred since this original audio post above on Oct. 16. It is strongly recommended that you review the new information available in bold below.
UPDATE 5 P.M. WEDNESDAY, OCT. 18, 2023
Mayoral Runoff Election Early Voting Starts 10-19-23
Geocoding issue resolved
WIZS Radio 5pm News Segment 1 From 10-18-23 Henderson Municipal Election Canvass
•••••••••••••••••••••••••
UPDATE 4:30 P.M. TUESDAY, OCT. 17, 2023
The Vance County Board of Elections has called for a “recess” in the post-election canvass process – that 10-day window following an election that officials have to verify and certify results.
This action comes one week after the Oct. 10 nonpartisan municipal elections in Henderson that included contests for four City Council seats and a four-candidate field for mayor.
A runoff had been set for the mayoral contest, but those plans also were put on hold earlier today, per the N.C. State Board of Elections. The recess means that none of the contests have been certified.
In a meeting held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Vance Board of Elections Chair James Baines issued the following statement:
“The Vance County Board of Elections is recessing Canvass completion for the Municipal Election that occurred on 10-October-23 because the State Board of Elections has not yet completed the investigation regarding the geocoding issue. Canvass will reconvene once the State Board of Elections notifies the County Board of the completion of the investigation and resolution to the issue.”
As elections board members explained, the process of certifying election results considers all contests as one process; results must “be submitted to the state at once,” board member Cathy Clodfelter said Tuesday. So because all of the results have not been certified, none of the contests has been certified.
Earlier Tuesday afternoon, Vance County Board of Elections Director Jennifer Cocklin informed WIZS News that early voting – set to begin in two days’ time – would not begin as previously announced.
Cocklin read the brief statement to WIZS News from the state board of elections:
“The results of the 10-October-2023 Vance County municipal election have not been officially declared by law, therefore the run-off election cannot be called for at this time.”
A glitch in geocoding is at the heart of the issue, and elections officials acknowledged the state board of the possible problem. As part of election coverage to announce the unofficial results on Oct. 10, WIZS included a statement from Baines that was issued after the polls had closed:
“The Vance County Board of Elections is aware of a geocoding issue that may have caused some voters in the city of Henderson elections to receive a ballot in Tuesday’s election that did not have the correct alderman ward contest. The County Board immediately notified the State Board of Elections, which is working with the county to determine how many voters’ ballots were affected. Election night results are always unofficial, and the post-election canvass process will ensure that the votes are counted correctly for each contest. Election officials will provide additional information about this situation as it becomes available.”
Cocklin provided few details about next steps, but she said she has provided information to the state board as it is requested.
“They’re asking us and we’re providing information as quickly as we can,” she said. “The only thing I know is they are working on it,” she said, “meeting every day – at least once every day.”
Just in case you need a refresher course in civics, here’s some information from the state board of elections website:
“Results on election night are unofficial. Canvass is the official process of determining if the votes have been counted and tabulated correctly, resulting in the authentication of the official election results.
For close elections, the canvass period is especially important. During this time, elections officials count absentee ballots that came in before the deadline and research provisional ballots to determine whether they should be counted.
In every county, the canvass meeting when the results are certified is 10 days after Election Day. Because elections thrive on transparency, the canvass meeting is open to the public.”
Henderson Mayor Runoff Election Set For Nov. 7; Early Voting Begins Oct. 19
Significant updates and changes have occurred since this original post on Oct. 13. It is strongly recommended that you review the new information available as of 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 17, 2023 in bold rather than the original post.
The Vance County Board of Elections has called for a “recess” in the post-election canvass process – that 10-day window following an election that officials have to verify and certify results.
This action comes one week after the Oct. 10 nonpartisan municipal elections in Henderson that included contests for four City Council seats and a four-candidate field for mayor.
A runoff had been set for the mayoral contest, but those plans also were put on hold earlier today, per the N.C. State Board of Elections. The recess means that none of the contests have been certified.
In a meeting held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Vance Board of Elections Chair James Baines issued the following statement:
“The Vance County Board of Elections is recessing Canvass completion for the Municipal Election that occurred on 10-October-23 because the State Board of Elections has not yet completed the investigation regarding the geocoding issue. Canvass will reconvene once the State Board of Elections notifies the County Board of the completion of the investigation and resolution to the issue.”
As elections board members explained, the process of certifying election results considers all contests as one process; results must “be submitted to the state at once,” board member Cathy Clodfelter said Tuesday. So because all of the results have not been certified, none of the contests has been certified.
Earlier Tuesday afternoon, Vance County Board of Elections Director Jennifer Cocklin informed WIZS News that early voting – set to begin in two days’ time – would not begin as previously announced.
Cocklin read the brief statement to WIZS News from the state board of elections:
“The results of the 10-October-2023 Vance County municipal election have not been officially declared by law, therefore the run-off election cannot be called for at this time.”
A glitch in geocoding is at the heart of the issue, and elections officials acknowledged the state board of the possible problem. As part of election coverage to announce the unofficial results on Oct. 10, WIZS included a statement from Baines that was issued after the polls had closed:
“The Vance County Board of Elections is aware of a geocoding issue that may have caused some voters in the city of Henderson elections to receive a ballot in Tuesday’s election that did not have the correct alderman ward contest. The County Board immediately notified the State Board of Elections, which is working with the county to determine how many voters’ ballots were affected. Election night results are always unofficial, and the post-election canvass process will ensure that the votes are counted correctly for each contest. Election officials will provide additional information about this situation as it becomes available.”
Cocklin provided few details about next steps, but she said she has provided information to the state board as it is requested.
“They’re asking us and we’re providing information as quickly as we can,” she said. “The only thing I know is they are working on it,” she said, “meeting every day – at least once every day.”
Just in case you need a refresher course in civics, here’s some information from the state board of elections website:
“Results on election night are unofficial. Canvass is the official process of determining if the votes have been counted and tabulated correctly, resulting in the authentication of the official election results.
For close elections, the canvass period is especially important. During this time, elections officials count absentee ballots that came in before the deadline and research provisional ballots to determine whether they should be counted.
In every county, the canvass meeting when the results are certified is 10 days after Election Day. Because elections thrive on transparency, the canvass meeting is open to the public.”
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Original Post Oct. 13, 2023:
County elections officials have confirmed that a runoff election to determine the next mayor of the City of Henderson is set for Tuesday, Nov. 7. Residents will be able to vote early, beginning Thursday, Oct. 19.
None of the four mayoral candidates received the 50 percent plus 1 vote needed to be declared the winner in Tuesday’s nonpartisan municipal elections; Melissa Elliott led the field with just more than 48 percent of the vote, and Greg Etheridge requested a runoff on Wednesday. That request was granted when it became clear that the provisional ballots would not be enough to give Elliott the necessary votes to prevent a runoff.
The person who receives more votes will be declared the winner.
The early voting period will run from Thursday, Oct. 19 until Friday, Nov. 3. The Monday-through-Friday hours are 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.
The location is the Dr. Andrea Harris City of Henderson Operations Center on Beckford Drive. And just as was the case for the recent municipal election, the final Saturday before the runoff date will feature early voting as well. That lone Saturday, Nov. 4, features early voting hours of 8:30 a.m. until 3 p.m.
If all of that seems familiar, it is because essentially it’s the same in principle as the election that was just held. The new director of the board of elections, Jennifer Cocklin, told WIZS News the early voting had “to be done the same way.”
And when the runoff date of Nov. 7 arrives, voters will be able to return to the nine precincts used most recently and vote from 6:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m.
TownTalk: Mayoral Race Still Uncertain
The text of this story has been updated since originally posted October 11th.
The outcome of Tuesday’s Henderson mayoral race remains uncertain, and the two top vote-getters are headed to a Nov. 7 runoff election.
Melissa Elliott earned 898 votes from the 1,856 individuals who voted in the nonpartisan municipal elections, which constitutes 48.57 percent – just short of the 50 percent, plus 1 vote state statute requires to be considered the winner.
Greg Etheridge garnered 746 votes, just more than 40 percent. Etheridge said in an email Wednesday that he had submitted his request for a runoff to the county board of elections.
Elliott said as of Wednesday that provisional ballots and mail-in ballots were yet to be included in the overall count, so she said it was premature as of Wednesday for her to comment on a possible runoff.
In a written statement sent Tuesday evening to WIZS News, Etheridge thanked his supporters and laid out plans for a Nov. 7 runoff.
In part, his statement read: “You are the reason I am going to continue the fight for safer neighborhoods, affordable housing, jobs with living wages, a vibrant downtown, and lower property taxes in our wonderful hometown.”
About 20 percent of the city’s residents voted during the early voting period and Tuesday’s election day – 1,856 of the city’s 9,285 registered voters.
In a phone interview Wednesday, Elliott said she chooses not to criticize those who did not vote, but she applauds those who did come out to vote.
“Right now, I’m the winner and I’m going to stay the winner,” she said.
Elections officials planned to open the provisional ballot box on Friday, Oct. 13 at 12 noon.
A simple math problem shows that of those 9,285 registered voters, 1,856 exercised their right to vote, leaving a whopping 7,429 who did not vote at all.
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Henderson Nonpartisan Election Results
Voters in Henderson elected four new members to the City Council Tuesday, but the mayoral race remains uncertain, as no candidate got 50 percent of the vote.
With 898 votes, Melissa Elliott received just more than 48 percent of the vote, followed by Greg Etheridge who, with 746, garnered just over 40 percent. In a written statement sent to WIZS News Tuesday night, Etheridge indicated that he would request a runoff. If a runoff is called for, the election day would be Nov. 7.
Political newcomers shared the spotlight as the election results were tabulated.
Michael Venable defeated two challengers to win the Ward 3 at-large seat and Tami Walker defeated her two challengers handily to win the Ward 4 at-large seat.
By 8:14 p.m., WIZS News called the race for Ward 2 for Sam Seifert, who defeated incumbent Mike Rainey and challenger Janice Ward with 435 votes, a decisive 60 percent win.
The Ward 1 race was claimed by Geraldine Champion, who got 208 votes for a total of 57.14 percent. She easily defeated the other three candidates.
The evening didn’t go off without a hitch, however; Vance County Board of Elections Chairman James Baines issued a written statement Tuesday evening to report that some voters may have gotten incorrect ballots.
Here’s the statement:
“The Vance County Board of Elections is aware of a geocoding issue that may have caused some voters in the city of Henderson elections to receive a ballot in Tuesday’s election that did not have the correct alderman ward contest. The County Board immediately notified the State Board of Elections, which is working with the county to determine how many voters’ ballots were affected. Election night results are always unofficial, and the post-election canvass process will ensure that the votes are counted correctly for each contest. Election officials will provide additional information about this situation as it becomes available.”
In an interview Tuesday evening at the Board of Elections office, Elliott said she was excited and thankful for the citizens who chose to vote for her.
“I don’t see a runoff at all,” she told WIZS News.
Challenger Etheridge can call for a runoff; WIZS spoke with Etheridge in person after the on-air election coverage had concluded. We anticipate a statement from his campaign that will include his intentions to call for a runoff.
Champion told WIZS Tuesday evening that during her campaign, she talked to – and listened to – many in the community about issues the city faces, including the crime rate. “I’m grateful that (they) thought enough of me and believed in me to want to see a change, a difference in the city of Henderson,” she said.
About 20 percent – 1,856 out of 9,285 registered voters – cast their ballots either during the early voting period or Tuesday; polls closed at 7:30 p.m. and it didn’t take long for elections officials to receive and process the results from the city’s nine precincts.
Seifert said he was proud to be able to serve Henderson. “It’s a good feeling to come back home to Henderson…I’m proud to be able to take this next step in my journey to serve Henderson on the City Council,” he told WIZS News Tuesday by phone.
He said he looks forward to building relationships in the community and on the Council, using “good, solid decision-making so that we give Henderson our best, so Henderson can be its best.”
Ward 4 winner Walker had similar observations, stating that she had met a variety of people during her campaigning and hopes to be able to harness their support to get things done for Henderson. ”It has made me realize that you don’t have to concentrate on one thing,” she told WIZS News. “You’ll meet people along the way that have the same vision.”
Ward 3 at-large winner Venable said he is grateful to his supporters for their vote. “It feels wonderful,” he said Tuesday. “I’m ready to work and serve.” He said he wants to target economic development and address mental health issues, both of which he said are issues the community faces.
The totals from the Vance County Board of Elections are:
Mayor
Melissa Elliott 898
Greg Etheridge 746
Sara Coffey 151
Jason Spriggs 51
Ward 3 at-large
Michael Venable 922
Michelle Horner Wood 597
Corey Franklin 232
Ward 4 at-large
Tami Walker 959
George Daye 533
Lora Durham 141
Ward 1
Geraldine Champion 208
Symia Crews 95
Clementine Hunter 14
Corey Pearson 47
Ward 2
Sam Seifert 435
Mike Rainey 116
Janice Ward 173
TownTalk: Ward 4 At-Large Candidates Answer Questions
Note: This is the fifth of five TownTalk segments to provide election coverage for the upcoming Oct. 10 municipal elections in Henderson. Today, we’ll hear from the candidates for the Ward 4 at-large seat.
WIZS posed the same questions to all 17 candidates running for the five races – mayor, Ward 1 and Ward 2 seats, as well as the at-large seats in Wards 3 and 4.
Some of the candidates responded to the questions in written form and others were recorded in phone interviews and their responses were transcribed for inclusion in this story. Online readers will notice direct quotes in the answers; information not in direct quotes is paraphrased to provide concise text and readability.
The candidates’ responses appear in alphabetical order, beginning with George Daye, and continuing with Tami Walker. Lora Durham, who also filed for the Ward 4 at-large seat, did not provide responses, despite numerous attempts to reach her by phone call, text message, email and correspondence via the U.S. Postal Service.
Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 21 and ends Oct. 7.
1. Why are you running for elected office?
George Daye: “I filed because I was interested in going back (on the City Council) and wanted to work with the new manager. The day I filed, that was what I wanted.” He said that when sitting Council member Jason Spriggs filed for mayor, he was spurred on to file for the seat he had previously held. “Jason filed for the mayor role and I just feel like I could go there and do some good,” Daye said.
Tami Walker: “I am running for elected office because I have served my country and now I am ready to serve my hometown community.”
2. What’s your platform?
Daye: Daye acknowledged in a telephone interview that he had second thoughts about filing for the Ward 4 at-large seat, but “if they vote for me, I’ll do the best I can.”
Walker: Walker listed the following topics: Senior citizens’ rights and assistance, assisting hometown veterans, the disabled and active-duty, as well as support and inclusion of youth. “Children deserve a great education, neighborhood and support system of family and friends to develop into great citizens,” Walker said.
3. What are the top three issues that, in your opinion, this city faces in the next two years? Five years?
Neither candidate directly addressed the question about the top three issues that Henderson faces in the near future.
4. As an elected official, how will you address these issues?
Daye: Daye said that, during his previous term on the City Council, he strived to be attentive during meetings to conduct the business of the city. “When I was on the council, I was in business. I saw some people that were sitting in the council meeting and (they) would answer their telephones. I thought that was a disgrace. Despite effects of severe asthma, Daye said he took his role seriously.
Walker: Walker stated that she would address the issues through “education and action (and by) using the resources available to me as an elected official. “
5. What is your experience in the public sector?
Daye: Daye has served previously on the City Council in the Ward 4 at-large seat. He opted not to run for re-election when Jason Spriggs showed interest in running for the seat.
Walker: “ I am a retired veteran, a Vance County schools retiree, a volunteer and humanitarian. I enjoy interacting with the public sector.”
6. If you are a newcomer to politics, what role do you see yourself playing as a member of an elected body?
Walker: “I see myself as a team member listening to my community, and doing my best to grow in my role, while using resources to find resolutions to the issues that my community brings forth.”
7. Please share any additional information you want voters to know about you.
Daye: “When I went and filed,” Daye said, “I was gung ho” to run for Council. But, he said, “the spirit hasn’t hit me yet to get out there and fight for that position.” If he is elected, however, he said he would do his best to serve the people of Henderson.
Walker: Walker said she looks forward to serving her community as a Council member. “This is my neighborhood and my community,” she stated. (It’s) where I grew up. The people are nice and welcoming. Growing up near Pinkston Street School, Walker said she could hear the school bell ring from her house. It was a short walk to elementary school for her in 1974 or 1975, right after integration, and then she walked a little farther to Henderson Junior High. “I had one of the best childhood ever,” she said.
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TownTalk: Ward 3 At-Large Candidates Answer Questions
Note: This is the fourth of five TownTalk segments to provide election coverage for the upcoming Oct. 10 municipal elections in Henderson. Today, we’ll hear from the candidates for the Ward 3 at-large seat.
WIZS posed the same questions to all 17 candidates running for the five races – mayor, Ward 1 and Ward 2 seats, as well as the at-large seats in Wards 3 and 4.
Some of the candidates responded to the questions in written form and others were recorded in phone interviews and their responses were transcribed for inclusion in this story. Online readers will notice direct quotes in the answers; information not in direct quotes is paraphrased to provide concise text and readability.
The candidates’ responses appear in alphabetical order, beginning with Kory Franklin and continuing with Michelle Horner Wood. Candidate Michael Venable did not provide any information, despite numerous attempts to contact him by phone, text, email and hand delivery of a written request for information.
Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 21 and ends Oct. 7.
1. Why are you running for elected office?
Kory Franklin: “Family and accountability are not just values to me; they are the very essence of my commitment to public service. I come from a family deeply dedicated to city governance, and I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible impact of community-driven initiatives that address the real needs of our people. I firmly believe that Henderson has the potential to become a thriving city, but it begins with us. To address the challenges and opportunities before us, we must first embody these core values of family, accountability, self-respect, and respect for others.”
Michelle H. Wood: “I am running for City Council Ward 3 at-large. I am here to listen to the people and be a voice for them. The citizens of Henderson feel they are not heard – that is heartbreaking. I want to work with fellow City Council members to achieve what is important to the citizens of Henderson to bring a better quality of life to everyone (who) calls Henderson home.” She said she is eager to share ideas about how to bring positive momentum to help Henderson become the best it can be.”
2. What’s your platform?
Franklin: “As I embark on my journey into public office, I am passionate about continuing the legacy of community service. I’m driven to apply the knowledge and values I’ve gained to confront the pressing issues of our time. From promoting economic growth and addressing housing affordability to ensuring educational excellence, enriching our cultural landscape, and implementing programs to inspire our youth and reduce crime. I am convinced that together, we can build a stronger and more vibrant community where every resident has the opportunity to thrive. Remember, when people take pride in their city, they become deeply invested in its well-being and growth. Let’s stand together as OneCity, OnePeople, and make our vision for Henderson a reality.”
Wood: “We need rising wages inside the city of Henderson rather than a rising crime rate. (We need) equal and fair housing opportunities for everyone with proper code enforcement…put local government back to work for the citizens of Henderson.”
3. What are the top three issues that, in your opinion, this city faces in the next two years? Five years?
Franklin: Franklin identified top issues for the city which include reducing crime, having more affordable housing, cleaner neighborhoords, economic growth, responsible budgeting, mental health programs and tackling prejudice.
Wood: Wood said addressing the issue of affordable and safe housing will take years to correct. “There are people living in houses that are deplorable,” she said. Henderson certainly isn’t the only city that experiences crime, and Wood said she believes that the city can “create activities and safe places for the young people to go. Also, working to fill all the open positions for the police and sheriff department” is a priority. Wood also identified the division within the city as an issue to address. “I want to unite the people. We are children of God and I want to create an environment of equality. Everyone in this city and county is important,” she said.
4. As an elected official, how will you address these issues?
Franklin: “Crime is undoubtedly a pressing issue in our city, but addressing it goes hand in hand with providing our youth with meaningful alternatives. We must recognize that the absence of programs such as sports, summer camps, arts, music, and technology initiatives can inadvertently push our young folks toward criminal activities. Policing alone won’t resolve this problem; what we truly need are programs that not only deter crime but also instill values of commitment, growth, teamwork, confidence, and opportunities for a brighter future.”
He called affordable housing. “vital component of our community’s well-being.” We need housing initiatives that offer stability and security, allowing homeowners and renters to weather unexpected challenges without facing financial ruin. “Clean and safe neighborhoods are crucial for our collective pride. We should all take pride in keeping our neighborhoods clean, ensuring they are places where families can thrive and feel safe. Encouraging community involvement in neighborhood clean-up efforts can make a significant difference.” Fostering economic growth, investing in mental health programs and responsible city budgeting also are key components that Franklin identified as key issues. To foster economic growth, we need to encourage, support, and train residents to become entrepreneurs and small business owners. I know our city is filled with innovative minds they just don’t know how to start. “Prejudice is a challenge we must confront head-on. It’s a choice we can make—to respect and value one another regardless of our differences. Promoting diversity and inclusion should be a priority, and we can do this through education and community and cultural events, featuring music, food, games, arts, and crafts, can strengthen our bonds as a community.”
Wood: Housing is holding landlords accountable, Wood said, but also (holding accountable) homeowners to make sure people are safe. Whether renting or owning a home, residents should be responsible for keeping the property clean and should keep trash picked up. “Crime is always going to be a work in progress,” Wood said. “I want to have quarterly street meetings – meeting people where they are,” she said. “I enjoy getting out there visiting people. Some of the best conversations are held on citizens’ porches. This will help with the division in our city as well.”
5. What is your experience in the public sector?
Franklin: “My father’s remarkable 30-year tenure as the chief of Economic and Housing Development in our city taught me the profound difference that public service can make in transforming a community. Growing up in this environment, I learned early that self-respect and respect for others are not just ideals; they are essential qualities that underpin a thriving community.”
Wood: “My heart has always been with the public sector, although I have not held an official position. I have been in many leadership positions in my life,” she said, including being a lay speaker at her church, youth leader, store manager and currently as director of operations for Ruin Creek Animal Protection Society. Wood said she has been attending City Council meetings as a citizen for the past two or more years.
6. If you are a newcomer to politics, what role do you see yourself playing as a member of an elected body?
Franklin: “My role as a newcomer to politics is all about being committed to actively engaging with our residents and constituents to identify gaps and find the solutions that make a difference. We’ll work together to support sustainable economic growth, find solutions to make housing more affordable, champion quality education for our youth, and ensure that cultural enrichment remains a fundamental part of our community.”
Wood: Her role as a member of an elected body, she said, is “to voice the important matters for the people of my ward and the whole city. I am here to ensure policies are being upheld. The city has many tools available to correct most of the problems. The ordinances and policies are there,” she said, it’s a matter of holding the correct people/persons accountable.
7. Please share any additional information you want voters to know about you.
Franklin: “I wholeheartedly invite you to join me on this transformative journey to create a city that we can all be proud to call home. Together, we will uphold the values of family, accountability, self-respect, and respect for others, shaping a brighter future for us all.”
Wood: Wood, a lifelong resident of Vance County, has lived in Ward 3 since 1999. She is a 1991 graduate of Southern Vance High School and attended Vance Granville Community College. She is married to Barry Wood, also a lifelong resident of Henderson. Candidate Wood works for Ruin Creek Animal Protection Society as the director of operation of the non-profit organization. Wood stated that there is a need for effective leadership and common sense, fair policy making for everyone involved.
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TownTalk: Mayoral Candidates Answer Questions
Note: This is the third of five TownTalk segments to provide election coverage for the upcoming Oct. 10 municipal elections in Henderson. Today, we’ll hear from the four mayoral candidates
WIZS posed the same questions to all 17 candidates running for the five races – mayor, Ward 1 and Ward 2 seats, as well as the at-large seats in Wards 3 and 4.
Some of the candidates responded to the questions in written form and others were recorded in phone interviews and their responses were transcribed for inclusion in this story. Online readers will notice direct quotes in the answers; information not in direct quotes is paraphrased to provide concise text and readability.
The candidates’ responses appear in alphabetical order, beginning with Sara Coffey, and continuing with Melissa Elliott, Greg Etheridge and Jason Spriggs.
Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 21 and ends Oct. 7.
- Why are you running for elected office?
Sara Coffey: “I am running because I feel I have the experience and the ambition to go forward in helping rebuild our city.” Coffey said her two terms as Mayor pro tem, as well as her 18 years on City Council, serve her well to become mayor.
Melissa Elliott: “I am running for the office of mayor because I believe in the work God has blessed my hands to do over the past 18 years in this community. I am a visionary and I know how to manifest what I see against all odds. I have served eight years on the City Council, and I understand municipal government. I also understand that there are resources that our community needs and I know how to get them. I would love to create initiatives and see them seen through to make sure that everything that I’ve started will be finished, I also would like to be a part of the strategic plan of laying the foundation for a better Henderson in the next 30 years. I want the city of Henderson to thrive and grow in a most healthy way…while being a vibrant, welcoming successful community. My work on the City Council has proven that I am committed to the community.”
Greg Etheridge: “A good citizen is civic-minded, operates with a heightened sensitivity to the needs of others, and moves with a sense of urgency to find and provide assistance. I was born and raised in Vance County where these values and beliefs were taught and modeled by many adults who have faithfully served this community that I love. I believe that I honor them and their legacy in part by actively serving in various capacities including municipal office.”
Jason Spriggs: “I’m running for office because the citizens and residents of Henderson deserve a mayor that is most interested in what they feel should be changed in our city. As well, I was asked by several local politicians and business leaders to continue the work that our previous mayor has begun.”
- What’s your platform?
Coffey: Coffey said she wants to build affordable homes on the vacant lots of the city. She has consulted with contractors about the possibility of “tiny homes,” which could result in getting people in housing and off the streets. “I feel we can put some homes on these vacant lots. We are already grouping these lots to make them more attractive to a builder or contractor.” Trash along the city roadsides and in extra-territorial jurisdictions like Brodie Road remains an issue as well. “I’m talking with DOT now to see what we can do together to clean up some of our trash. I just want everyone to have a clean city where we all can enjoy. When visitors come, they look at our downtown, our theater and our streets that definitely need some help. I want more funding for our police and fire departments. These men and women are very crucial to our city. I would also like to see more businesses downtown.”
Elliott: Elliott listed a 5-point platform that aligns with the recent community assessment health card.
- Mental health – health equity for all, as well as addressing mental health needs, from dismantling stigma to substance abuse. “I would love to see a harm reduction team, working hand in hand with Granville -Vance Health Department, the police department and the fire department to create an initiative that would address opioids as well as opioid prevention.”
- Downtown development – “The downtown of every city in America is the heartbeat. I want to work alongside our city manager and our downtown development director to create a streamlined process that is user-friendly for businesses to come into our community. I want to be able to go to downtown Henderson, sit outside and have a lunch of different cuisines from different countries and diverse cultures.” She said she would like to create a downtown hub for businesses to have office space and share resources, as well as monthly events to bring people into the downtown area.
- Youth Engagement – “Youth are truly our future, and it is our responsibility as adults to make sure that they have what they need to be successful.”
- Food insecurity – Support existing programs like food banks and other meal programs that currently operate in the area and possibly create other avenues to make sure residents have enough food.
- Affordable housing – “We must have a plan for individuals that cannot afford affordable housing.” Elliott said Vance County Housing Authority has been approved for the first round of funding through the SHARP program, funded by ARPA. “I would love to bring the USDA, which is centrally located in our city, the Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Governments and county leaders together for a listening session” to create collaboration to build more affordable housing for low-income and unhoused people.
Etheridge: “I believe that Henderson’s best days do in fact lie ahead of us, but when you look at our neighborhoods and our downtown, it becomes clear that there’s a real need for positive change right now in Henderson. I will represent everyone fairly, no matter your address… and I will bring drive, passion and policy that makes living in Henderson better for everyone. Safer neighborhoods, affordable housing, jobs with livings wages, a vibrant downtown, and lower property taxes…, together we can all bring the change that we know our city needs. Together we can make a better way of life for everyone and together we will succeed.”
Spriggs: “My platform consists of all of those things that are most important to the average citizen. Examples include new parks, better roads, safer neighborhoods, more and better housing, opportunities to grow as a citizen and new businesses that will directly benefit us in a positive manner.”
- What are the top three issues that, in your opinion, this city faces in the next two years? Five years?
Coffey: Coffey identified affordable housing, people who need housing and trash as top priorities. She said she will continue to address these needs as mayor, just as she has done in her terms on the city council.
Elliott: “We must have mental health services that are user-friendly to all, that are easy to access and that are fair and equitable to all. We also must have substance use providers that will be accessible to our community. Our housing challenges are definitely on the top of the list. We need affordable housing – which we are building – as well as low-income housing, and we need shelter.” Elliott said there is a need for a landlord/tenant committee to fully inform both sides when issues arise. “Our downtown needs to thrive. We need our heartbeat to beat at an all-time high. We are centrally located off of the corridor of I-85 and US #1. We have a great opportunity to not only serve the citizens of this community, but people that are coming through. We need to maximize on that.”
Etheridge: “Goodwill and order in a community are partially achieved through the fair and consistent administration of laws and ordinances by elected leaders and appointed officials. When undesirable or unlawful activities, behaviors, and violations are tolerated without penalty for an extended period of time. I believe that Henderson has earned an undesirable and unhealthy reputation for tolerance of criminal and unwanted behavior that is detrimental to our future. Our city can no longer afford to rely solely on the hope that things will ‘get better.’ Now is the time for concerned citizens, elected leaders, and appointed officials to align,” Etheridge said, around the following topics:
- Drugs and Crime
- City Messaging
- Business Friendly
- Promoting Healthy Churches and Non-Profits
- Supporting our City Workers
- Neighborhood and Business Code Enforcement
Spriggs: “The top three issues from my view are ensuring that we continue the development we have already approved, keep our taxes low as we use the increased tax base from new industries and new housing to provide the best quality of life for everyone who is in the city, and also in the county, and to market in Henderson as the city, we desire it to be: a beautiful city of water that offers everyone the opportunity to have a great quality of life. We cannot tell the future, but in five years we should have completed our new fire station, the new development that is beginning to break ground, and we should be known as the premier small town of 85 that individuals from around the country want to move to retire to and work in.”
4. As an elected official, how will you address these issues?
Coffey: Coffey said her 18 years on the Henderson City Council puts her in a position to address the issues that face Henderson. “Whatever I can do to help the city,” she said, adding that she hopes to be able to do it as mayor. Being in conversation with contractors about the construction of “tiny homes” on city-owned parcels in residential neighborhoods is one way she is addressing the issues of affordable housing and homelessness. She said she will present her plan to the council once contractors can provide costs for construction. The smaller homes would be affordable for individuals, couples or small families, she added. “I’ve already done some stuff with the trash,” Coffey said. “I never thought what I did behind the scenes needed to be put on social media,” she said. “Maybe that’s why people don’t know all the stuff I’ve done.” In her 25 years as a small business owner and local official, Coffey said she had experience working with lobbyists, too. “I’ve never been one that’s stood back and waited for other people to do (something),” she said. “What I can do is show what we need here in Henderson,” offer some advice or suggestions and talk with leaders in Raleigh or wherever about how to accomplish the goals.
Elliott: “I would change the image of the city. I would be a spokesperson and I would fight for the city whether that is local, state, or federal.” By promoting initiatives that galvanize stakeholders and strengthen partnerships, Elliott said she encourages city and county collaboration to achieve health equity for all. She said she would work alongside developers to increase affordable housing options and help the city invest in a shelter to house families, in partnership with the county. Elliott said she would create programs for elected officials to talk regularly with school students to educate them about how government works and would also like to create more opportunities for professional development for elected officials from the UNC School of Government.
Etheridge:
- Neighborhood and Business Code Enforcement – “The lack of enforcement has led to the significant decline in the appeal and safety of neighborhoods and businesses. Nuisances are now the main focal points, and the safety and quality of structures have been extremely compromised. The vegetation overgrowth, substandard living conditions, and junk that is being allowed have created an environment of oppressed poverty and crime. Over the years, hundreds of homes have been abandoned while many that remain offer deplorable living conditions.”
- Drugs and Crime – “Many neighborhoods are downgrading to a level of poverty and blight, and the local justice system has proven itself to offer slow to no enforcement of penalties creating a perfect illegal drug business culture. Since rules and laws are not considered by this type of citizen, the byproduct will always be crime, shootings, death, oppression, overused city resources and safety concerns. Businesses and jobs will flee or just stay away.”
- City Messaging – “It is so important for city officials to take immediate action by identifying the “violent neighborhoods” with drug houses and gang activity – and then adding a police presence to protect those law-abiding citizens living there. Placing an immediate priority on holding the current owner/investor accountable for substandard conditions or condemning those vacant houses where drug deals are being made is the only fair and law-abiding action. We cannot afford another year, two, or five to go through the long red-tape process…it compromises accountability and promotes negligence.”
- Business Friendly – “The process of starting a business, renovating an existing building, or finding an appealing location to purchase has proven to be very difficult. Those who want to invest need to know the people, process and needed permitting upfront. Having the city as a guide, rather than a guard, is the only way to make sure we have a community open for solid, quality-of-life contributing businesses.”
- Promoting Healthy Churches and Non-Profits – “There are so many good organizations that truly want to provide help and hope to Henderson, above and beyond what a government can. These are the selfless servants and no paychecks or paybacks are asked for. Identifying and promoting these organizations are crucial to a healthy and growing community.”
- Supporting our City Workers – “We are grateful to all city staff members for the quality work and service they provide daily. For a vibrant and thriving community to exist, we must rely on the city manager and the city department heads to oversee the diligent enforcement of the established laws, codes and ordinances.”
Spriggs: “Addressing these issues will take diplomacy, experience in public policy and an empathetic ear to (listen to) the concerns of our citizens and business owners.”
5. What is your experience in the public sector?
Coffey: Coffey has been a member of the Henderson City Council for 18 years and has served two terms as Mayor pro tem.
Elliott: “I’ve been in the public sector all my life. I love people. I love all people and I want all people to thrive and be successful.” Elliott has been a member of the City Council for eight years and also has work experience with the Department of Social Services, the Department of Public Safety, Vance County Jail, Alexandria City Police Department and Amtrak.
Spriggs: “Before being elected to the city Council in 2019 I worked as a full-time city of Henderson employee for nearly four years. Aside from that, I have been active in North Carolina politics for 15 years, having worked for judges, other state officials, and their campaigns.” He also ran for Congress in 2022.
6. If you are a newcomer to politics, what role do you see yourself playing as a member of an elected body?
Etheridge: “The City Council is made up of nine elected individuals striving to fairly represent the best interests of and most beneficial outcomes for all of Henderson’s 15,000-plus citizens. When making policy, approving requests for funding, and governing the city, the mayor does not have a vote except when needed to break a tie…the mayor’s primary role on the council is to ensure a healthy, high-performing team atmosphere where all eight ward representatives are equally encouraged, equally supported, equally heard, and equally empowered to serve the citizens in their respective wards. The most important role of the mayor in our city for the next four years is to embrace this diversity and to guide Henderson toward the better future of safer neighborhoods, affordable housing, jobs with livings wages, a vibrant downtown, and lower property taxes that all our citizens deserve.”
7. Please share any additional information you want voters to know about you.
Coffey: Coffey has been a small business owner operating in the area since 1998. She is a native of Vance County and has said in earlier interviews with WIZS that she has an open-door policy when it comes to hearing from constituents. As an at-large council member, she represents all city residents, not just those in Ward 1.
Elliott: Elliott serves on numerous boards in the community, from Working on Wellness to the Dr. Andrea Harris Foundation Board, among others, including the Gun Violence Roundtable and Community Health Worker Ambassador for Region 4. “I will not leave anyone behind in my journey as the mayor of the city of Henderson.” She has written proclamations for the LGBTQ community, Hispanic Heritage Month and Community Health workers National Week and said she is a servant leader, ready to accept the challenge to serve the people of Henderson.
Etheridge: A Henderson native, Etheridge is a 1990 graduate of Vance Senior High School. He graduated from Pensacola Christian College in 1995. He is a registered Professional Engineer in North Carolina and a licensed HVAC contractor. In 2019 he purchased Gupton Services. He has held leadership roles with the Rotary Club of Henderson, the Kerr Lake Chapter of Ducks Unlimited, the City of Henderson Downtown Development Commission, and the VGCC Foundation, among others. Additional noted contributions include ACTS, Boys & Girls Club, Boy Scouts, Crime Stoppers, Edmonds Tennis and Golf Foundation, and the Salvation Army. Etheridge and wife Susan have one son, Samuel, 22. Susan is a native of Louisville, Kentucky and has been a life-long educator currently employed at North Raleigh Christian Academy as their director of academic advising. Samuel attended VGCC and is employed at Gupton Services as an HVAC service technician. Etheridge’s parents, Rick and Sybil Etheridge, and siblings, all reside in the Watkins community.
Spriggs: “Voters need to know that I am an independent politician whose main focus each day is to improve the lives of our residents, our citizens, our businesses and our families. Most importantly, as mayor of this beautiful city, my job is to serve the citizens fairly and completely.”
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TownTalk: Ward 2 Candidates Answer Questions
Note: This is the second of five TownTalk segments to provide election coverage for the upcoming Oct. 10 municipal elections in Henderson. Today, we’ll hear from the three candidates for the Ward 2 City Council seat.
WIZS posed the same questions to all 17 candidates running for the five races – mayor, Ward 1 and Ward 2 seats, as well as the at-large seats in Wards 3 and 4.
Some of the candidates responded to the questions in written form and others were recorded in phone interviews and their responses were transcribed for inclusion in this story. Online readers will notice direct quotes in the answers; information not in direct quotes is paraphrased to provide concise text and readability.
The candidates’ responses appear in alphabetical order, beginning with incumbent Mike Rainey and continuing with challengers Sam Seifert and Janice Ward.
- Why are you running for elected office?
Mike Rainey: Incumbent Rainey has served on the City Council for 27 years, and he said he is fortunate to have the support of the voters in Ward 2 and across the city. “Apparently, I’ve been doing something right,” he said. He plans to continue to support the efforts of the Council and hopes to be a voice for new residents as well.
Sam Seifert: “I come from a family that believes in and practices service to others and service above self. I am running for Henderson City Council, Ward 2, to serve my hometown and try to do my part to help Henderson realize its potential for a brighter future. Civic engagement, collaboration and effective leadership is vital to harness positive change for this city, our community and our citizens. I just spent the last seven months participating in Leadership Vance and it opened my eyes to the array of amenities and resources in the city and county, the good work being done, and the challenges and issues that exist. I was inspired to get involved because Henderson needs new energy, engagement and representation from citizens my age who are ready to roll up their sleeves and work on behalf of our community and all of its people.”
Janice Ward: “I’m running because I’m committed to not only representing Ward 2 but serving as a unifying force for the entire Henderson community. Together, I believe we can shape a future that honors our differences, celebrates our shared values and breaks down barriers that have held us back. I would like to see us move forward, hand in hand, towards a more diverse, fair, and prosperous Henderson.”
- What’s your platform?
Rainey: “If I’m elected, I would like to continue doing what I’ve done in the past,” Rainey said, and identified issues of growth, crime reduction and enhancing the overall look of the city as what he considers his platform. “I want to try to enhance the city of Henderson…and welcome new citizens. I want to point out the good things that Henderson has and that people may be looking over” and not realizing what we have, he said. There are many new people living in Henderson, and Rainey said “they bring a lot of good ideas and a lot of good points of view.”
Seifert: “Henderson is my hometown. I was born and raised here. I’ve also had the opportunity to live, work, start a family, recreate and volunteer in other cities and states in the Southeast. It’s my hope to offer a fresh perspective and good energy to help Henderson grow and thrive and become a destination for young families and working professionals.”
Seifert said the way to start is by
- Shifting our attitude and mindset to encourage pride of place
- Creating a safer community for all
- Revitalizing our historic downtown – We are fortunate to have a beautiful library, a world-class performing arts center and new retail and restaurants in our downtown. These businesses need our ongoing support, and we must continue efforts to rehabilitate vacant buildings and encourage new businesses to locate in our downtown. We must seek new ways to incentivize and support new development downtown.
- Improving our appearance – a cleaner, more attractive city is a key ingredient towards making it a safer and more appealing option for both people and business to consider for relocation.
- Stimulating economic growth and job creation
Ward: “Diversity is our strength and fairness is the cornerstone of a just society. I firmly believe that Henderson’s true potential can only be realized by celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures, backgrounds and perspectives that our residents bring to the table.”
- What are the top three issues that, in your opinion, this city faces in the next two years? Five years?
Rainey: Rainey said the same issues have been at the forefront of concerned residents for 15 or 10 years – crime, housing and jobs. Industry growth is another area that he considers an important issue for the city. Creating new jobs in the area would attract new residents, but there has to be housing available to accommodate new people. “We’ve got too much crime in this town, in my opinion,” Rainey said, but added that he believes much of it comes from outside sources, not necessarily from Henderson residents. “People are coming into our town with drugs, firearms and so forth that we need to stop,” he added.
Seifert: Issues in next two years: city-wide cleanup, relationship-building and reputation improvement Issues in next five years: housing, infrastructure, transportation
Ward: Mental Health, Homelessness and Lack of Employment Opportunities
- As an elected official, how will you address these issues?
Rainey: “We need to increase our industries,” Rainey said, which would mean more tax revenue – property tax and sales tax, especially – added to the city’s coffers. “That will enable us to do some things that we want to do for the homeless (population),” he said. The city is currently working to add housing units – apartments, townhomes and single-family dwellings – to the city footprint. “There are some big projects on the horizon which we’re hoping will pan out,” Rainey noted.
Seifert: “Starting right now with Year 1, a major undercurrent that needs to be continuous is recruiting and attracting new business/industry to our area that create opportunities for good paying jobs. In the years to come I would focus on:
1) City-wide cleanup – there needs to be continued efforts to improve the appearance of our city, from frequent litter clean-up initiatives to improving blighted residential areas and vacant/abandoned buildings that are in various states of disrepair. A cleaner, more attractive city is a key ingredient towards making it a safer and more appealing option for both people and business to consider for relocation. Blight in our community serves as a catalyst for crime, a barrier to economic development, and hurts the morale of our community.
2) Relationship-building – we must ensure good working relationships and strengthen collaboration within the City of Henderson, with Vance County officials, with our local community college, and with state and national representatives to explore all avenues of funding, training, and support needed to elevate Henderson.
3) Reputation Improvement – we must intentionally try to rehabilitate the city’s reputation by highlighting all the good that is here – the city’s people, natural resources, amenities, businesses and organizations that we should be proud of and which form a solid foundation for the future success of our city.
4) Housing – good progress is being made here with new proposed housing developments, but we need to see the current projects through to completion while also continuing plans for urban redevelopment
5) Infrastructure – we must ensure we stay on-track with the proposed Dabney Drive widening project. This will be important to improve traffic flow, especially to our downtown area businesses and venues.
6) Transportation – we must continue engagement with NC DOT and other appropriate entities to stay connected and prepared for the proposed S-line rail project. This project will have a tremendous impact on regional connectivity, economic growth, and overall vibrancy of our city.”
Ward: “As an elected official I will join in with agencies and non-profit organizations to tackle these issues by any means necessary.”
- What is your experience in the public sector?
Rainey: As the incumbent, Rainey said he likes the level of transparency that exists with the sitting Council members. “We try to be transparent in what we do and keep people abreast about what we’re doing,” he said. “We’ve been doing a little bit better job explaining things” to the public, he added. He encourages residents to voice their concerns by attending a City Council meeting. “We can’t fix the problem if we don’t know it,” he said.
Seifert: “I am new to the political arena, though personally I see that as a positive. Fresh perspectives are important. I have nearly 20 years’ experience in health administration, where I listen, analyze, problem-solve, communicate, lead and work with teams of people on a daily basis. I have developed similar skills through my involvement with many civic and religious organizations. All of these skills transfer to the position of city council representative.”
Ward: “I have no experience in the public sector but I’m excited to begin this new endeavor giving back to my hometown, Henderson NC.”
- If you are a newcomer to politics, what role do you see yourself playing as a member of an elected body?
Rainey: While certainly not a newcomer to politics, Rainey said he is “open to any kind of help from the new (members), and he said he will try to answer their questions. “I may not know all the answers, but I can give them mine…I pride myself on the fact that I do what I think is best – it may not be someone else’s opinion,” he said, but added that his experience on the Council provides a unique perspective on progress the city has made over the years.
Seifert “I will represent my ward by listening to the concerns and ideas of the citizens in my ward, and I will take them to the council for consideration. I will be an engaged member of the city council, preparing and educating myself in advance of meetings. I will work respectfully and professionally with my fellow council members to do what is best for the city of Henderson.”
Ward: “I am a newcomer to politics. I see myself being as asset to being a vote or contributing to anything that can make our city and our residence of Henderson more productive and to feel honored and privileged to be a part of.”
- Please share any additional information you want voters to know about you.
Rainey: “The voting public has got to realize that we just have one vote. We need to vote on how we feel in relationship with what people have made comments about,” Rainey said, “to work out problems in a roundtable discussion…don’t sweep it under the rug. We need to be open and realize that no matter what decision we make, some people are going to be happy with the decision and some people are not going to be happy. We need to be open-minded and be willing to listen.” City leaders and the community need to work together to try to eliminate negative feelings, he said.
Seifert: “My wife, Amine, and I are happy to be back in Henderson and look forward to continuing to raise our children in a small, close-knit community. I’m excited for the opportunity to potentially serve the citizens of Ward 2 as their city council representative. Together, let’s strive to make Henderson an inviting and thriving community for people to live, play and work.”
Ward: Ward and her family have been local businesses owners in the county since 2003. The business provides services to intellectually disabled individuals. The operate a residential group home and two AFL homes in Henderson and help these individuals and senior adults gain independent living skills and other types of training. “My husband and both worked at Murdoch Center. My husband retired from there and he is also retired from the National Guard and now is employed with the Vance County Sheriff department as a bailiff.” Our heart and passion are for the people. If I’m elected, I will continue to do what I do on a daily basis and that is to serve and meet the needs of all people.”
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