The Local Skinny! Municipal Elections, Ward 3

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Editor’s Note: Early voting for the Oct. 7 nonpartisan municipal elections has begun and continues through Saturday, Oct. 4. As part of WIZS’s ongoing coverage of the four Henderson City Council contests, Thursday’s segment of The Local Skinny! focuses on the Ward 3 seat. Garry Daeke, the incumbent, and challenger Jason Spriggs are the two candidates who responded to a list of questions from WIZS. Their responses appear unedited and, in their entirety, below.

Garry Daeke

What prompted you to run for local office?

After coming home from college, I wanted to give back to my community and hopefully be a part of the solutions.  I joined the City’s Zoning Board of Adjustment, the Planning Board, and served on the Downtown Development Commission.  The experience I gained from these City centric boards prompted me to run for local office.

What’s your platform?

I believe we need citizens who will serve the best interests of the local community. Henderson is at a crossroads, and with a Council that can honor each other and work together to solve problems, we can focus on the areas of most need.  For the City to grow, we have to add more taxable property, whether business or residential, to grow our budget.  With that revenue, we need to begin building homes in our downtown areas where we have taken so many dilapidated structures down.

State the three most important issues you see that are facing the city and explain how you plan to address these issues if you’re elected.

First, I am hoping that the next Council members honor each other for their individual knowledge and are willing to work as a team to reach positive outcomes for the citizens. Without that, we cannot move forward. Secondly, we have to acknowledge that our tax rates are high, and our expenditures the last few years have depended too much on fund balance to continue operations, so we must increase taxable properties to the City to maintain our present services, and that will be the key to growth and additional programs and services.  Third, we must provide better housing options for our citizens within the City.  We must foster growth in our downtown and the surrounding residential areas.  Grow we must (annexation of new developments for revenue), but we cannot let the center of town, especially our neighborhoods, continue to decay.

What are your beliefs, ideas, and passions for ways to make Henderson the best place it can be?

My mother was specific in teaching us the Golden Rule as a way to always treat others with respect and honor.  That has guided me throughout my personal and professional life.  My passion for working to assist people to thrive in a safe, supported, and caring environment still drives me to make the best decisions for this community, and to make Henderson the best place it can be.

Explain how your personal and professional experience will contribute to the work of the City Council.

After coming back home to Henderson from college, I worked for the Area Mental Health program for 15 years, specifically serving adults with developmental disabilities, assisting them with support services to live and find employment in the community. Next, I worked with FGV Smart Start for 25 years, serving families with young children, focusing on their social, emotional, and educational development. I have been blessed that my employment history allowed me to utilize my passion for helping people and to be able to continue to learn of the multitude of challenges people face in our community. Combining this work, while serving on local boards and commissions, has enabled me to understand the work of the Henderson City Council.

How do you feel about the current climate in the city?  If elected what are your short and long term goals?

The current climate in the city is problematic. Presently, there is not a collaborative environment on the Henderson City Council.  The lack of transparency, the efforts to control rather than involve all elected members, and the loss of any team effort has crippled the City and created an environment in which our professional staff does not feel supported.  Council efforts are now competitive, yet should be one of collaboration and working together.  Elect people who are honored to serve, and choose to do this because they care.  My short term goals are to re-create the positive working environment that we previously enjoyed at the City, and restoring the publics’ confidence in the City Council and its’ leadership. Longer term goals are building a stronger revenue base, creating better housing options in the City, revitalizing downtown with new businesses and customers, and continuing the upgrade of our infrastructure (sewer, water) and as well as our streets, many of which need pothole work and additional paving.

Please share any additional information that you want voters to know about you.

Born and raised in Henderson, after coming home after college (UNC-Chapel Hill) and volunteering to work on many community and City boards, I decided to apply what I had learned and run for Henderson City Council.  I have served Ward Three for 20 years.  Presently, I am Mayor pro tem, chair of the Kerr Lake Regional Water System board, and chair of the Public Works committee. I have been married for forty one years (wife, Scarlett), and have two sons (Adam and Aaron). I am a lifelong member of the First Presbyterian Church.

A City Council member is a steward of the citizens’ resources.  Our work must be done with equity for all, with honesty, and transparency so that our citizens can see and understand what we are doing with their money and property.

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Jason Spriggs

What prompted you to run for local office?

I’m running for the 3rd Ward City Council because I have a deep desire to improve the lives of the people closest to me…my family, friends, and neighbors. I’ve seen our city’s progress slow down noticeably. I believe the best way to serve those I love and the entire community is to step up, help get us back on a path of progress, and ensure our progress is benefitting everyone equally.

What’s your platform?

My platform focuses on key initiatives that will improve our city:

  • Complete Downtown Projects: Finish the Montgomery St. park (skate and splash pad) and build the Downtown pavilion.
  • Support Local Organizations: Provide continued financial support for local non-profits and the Henderson Vance Chamber of Commerce.
  • Invest in City Employees: Improve yearly salary and compensation for all municipal employees.
  • Enhance City Operations: Separate the City Manager and City Attorney dual roles, officially transition to the “City of Water,” and reinstate the Assistant to the Mayor position.
  • Improve Public Services: Secure funding for year-round street cleaning and establish a Community Resource Center on the Eastside to serve youth and seniors.

State the three most important issues you see that are facing the city and explain how you plan to address these issues if you’re elected.

The three most important issues I believe our city is currently facing are a loss of citizen morale, the ongoing problem of incomplete city projects, and the need to keep our neighborhoods clean and safe. If elected, I plan to prioritize transparency and communication by holding more accessible public forums and actively seeking citizen input. City Hall should re-prioritize and secure the necessary funding to complete what has already been started before we initiate any new, large-scale projects. I would like to implement a year-round street-cleaning program by hiring local contractors in order to make our city noticeably cleaner, while making sure our police and fire departments have the resources they need to keep us safe.

What are your beliefs, ideas and passions for ways to make Henderson the best city it can be?

We have to remember that the city we pass on to our children and grandchildren is the legacy we are building today. Henderson deserves our full commitment, and we should always be ready to support new ideas that improve the quality of life for every single resident.

Explain how your personal and professional experience will contribute to the work of the City Council.

With over a decade of experience in public service and politics, I’ve had the honor of serving on the City Council and on the boards of local non-profits like the United Way, Visions Learning and Tutoring, and the Boys & Girls Club. This dual experience has given me a unique perspective, allowing me to not only help create policies but also secure meaningful grants that directly fund the work of these vital organizations.

How do you feel about the current climate in the city? 

Our residents want more from their city, and their frustration is a call to action. That’s something I can empathize with. Change happens when people are able to express their discontent. I’m certainly listening and hopefully our elected officials are too.

 If elected, what are your short-term goals?

Short term, we need to complete the Montgomery St. park project as well as our Downtown Pavilion and hire local contractors to clean up our neighborhoods.

Long-term goals?

Long term, we need to make progress on our 3rd fire station and work with our state and federal partners to ensure our Kerr Lake Regional Water Plant upgrade is funded in its entirety and completed.

Please share any additional information that you want voters to know about you.

While I respect our political parties, I am an unaffiliated (independent) voter and public servant committed to one platform: our entire community. My focus is on finding common ground and crafting policies that create opportunities for all residents, regardless of their personal or political beliefs.

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Home and Garden Show

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On the Home and Garden Show with Vance Co. Cooperative Ext.

  • The Vance County Regional Farmers Market is open on Saturdays from 8am to 1pm.
  • Collect your soil samples ASAP.
  • Sow tall fescue this week.
  • Check collards for aphids, cabbage worms and harlequin bugs.
  • Control Fire Ants now that the weather is cooler.
  • Check nurseries for trees and shrubs you would like to plant this fall.
  • Check for insects on any recently planted transplants.
  • Clean garden tools and store them if you are not going to use them till next spring.
  • Avoid pruning right now.
  • Carolina lawns is the best publication for having a good lawn.
  • Start ordering your fall planting bulbs now.
  • Check houseplants dust weekly with a soft cloth.
  • Check storage areas for mice.

The Vance County Cooperative Extension is located at 305 Young St, Henderson, NC 27536

The Vance County Regional Farmers Market is located at 210 Southpark Dr., Henderson, NC 27536

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Perry Memorial Library

The Local Skinny! Activities For All In The Fall At Perry Memorial Library

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If you’ve got a pair of pants that are too long and you’re 13 years old – or older – there’s a class at Perry Memorial Library on Sunday that could fit you just right.

Youth Services Librarian Melody Peters is having a “Fix It” Lab that will help participants learn how to hem a pair of pants.

The class takes place at 2:30 p.m. at the library. “It’s a simple skill,” Peters told WIZS’s Scout Hughes on Tuesday’s The Local Skinny!

Peters revealed that she has a background in costume and theater, where she learned some of her sewing skills.

Offering the “Fix It” Lab is also a way to bring people of all ages together to enjoy time together.

“We used to have more community settings,” Peters said. Church events and extended family get-togethers provided young people access to older folks that may not be in their immediate family circle.

This library offering is another way to address patrons’ requests to have more intergenerational programs.

“We’re going to get some going and see what happens,” she said.

Here are some other events coming up at the library:

  • Michael McCray of “Occasions by M” has cooked up a series of free cooking classes for young people 13 years and older beginning on Tuesday, Sept. 30. Space is capped at 16, so if you’re interested, sign up soon. The class will be held from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. McCray is going to fire up the library’s Charlie Cart, which Peters said has everything on it you need to learn how to cook – without being in a regulation-size kitchen.
  • Students in grades K-12 are encouraged to hop on the anti-litter bandwagon as part of a county-wide effort to clean up trash. “We are on board, we’ve signed our pledge,” Peters said. The “Essay and Art Clean Community Contest” winners will be announced at National Night Out Celebration in downtown Henderson, set for Thursday, Oct. 7 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The deadline to submit entries is Sept. 30. Three students from elementary, middle and high school levels will win gift cards for their winning entries.

Contact Peters at mpeters@perrylibrary.org for more details.

Learn more about all the happenings at Perry Memorial Library at https://www.perrylibrary.org/

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American Legion Post #60 Gets OK For Veterans Memorial

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In a unanimous vote at its regular September meeting, the Henderson City Council approved a request from the American Legion Post #60 to create a Veterans Memorial at the entrance to the Henderson Police Station on Breckenridge Street.

The circular space is about 25 feet in diameter and currently is planted with shrubbery. The American Legion Post #60 plans to raise the funds necessary to construct a memorial. The City Council, however, reserves the right of final approval of the design and placement of the memorial.

The explanation in the agenda package stated that “having a dedicated site for such a memorial will honor the men and women of our community that served our nation. It will give our community the opportunity to remember and reflect on the sacrifices made by many.”

Other than the cost of monthly electrical costs associated with lighting, the city wouldn’t be paying for any part of the memorial.

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The Local Skinny! Middleburg Baptist Church BBQ Plate Fundraiser September 20th

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The Middleburg Baptist Church Brotherhood is having a barbecue plate fundraiser on Saturday, Sept. 20.

Justin Simmons, a member of the men’s group that is organizing the event, said plates will be ready for pick up beginning at 12 noon. The cost is $15 and includes baked beans, potato salad, slaw, bread and homemade desserts – courtesy of the church’s Women on Missions group.

The church is located at 80 N. Plummer Ave. in Middleburg.

Simmons said the goal is to provide at least 250 plates – just come on out to the church with cash or a check to pick up the plates.

Proceeds from the fundraiser help the Brotherhood provide financial support to local ministries including Rebuilding Hope, Inc., as well as providing school supplies for E.O. Young Elementary and providing gifts to needy children at Christmas.

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Juvenile’s Self-Inflicted Gun Shot Wound Leads to Two Arrests and Juvenile Petitions

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On September 8, 2025, at approximately 5:34 p.m., officers with the Henderson Police Department responded to the 1600 block of North Garnett Street regarding a report of shots fired. Upon arrival, officers observed signs that an individual had been injured. A sixteen-year-old juvenile was located and treated by EMS at the scene for a non-life-threatening wound. The juvenile was transported to a local medical facility for further treatment.

Through further investigation, it was determined that the injury sustained by the juvenile was self-inflicted.

During the course of the investigation, officers observed a black Honda Accord leaving the area at a high rate of speed. The vehicle was stopped a short time later by deputies with the Vance County Sheriff’s Office near 2101 North Garnett Street. Four individuals were detained from the vehicle: two 17-year-old juveniles, Kyriek Alston (19), and Rashad Gray (18).

Investigators discovered that one of the juveniles and Alston were in possession of heroin. Gray was found to be in possession of marijuana. Henderson Police Department Investigators responded to assist deputies and took custody of the individuals. Two firearms were also recovered during the investigation, one is believed to have been used in this incident, and the other was confirmed to have been reported stolen.

Charges filed to date include:

  • Kyriek Alston (19): Charged with Felony Possession of Schedule I Controlled Substance. Alston was transported to the Vance County Magistrate’s Office, where he received no bond due to being on pretrial release for a separate matter. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 7, 2025. He was remanded to the Vance County Detention Facility.
  • Rashad Gray (18): Released on a citation for Simple Possession of Marijuana.
  • Juveniles: Juvenile petitions are being pursued in connection with the drug and firearm offenses.

This case remains under active investigation.

The Henderson Police Department extends its appreciation to the Vance County Sheriff’s Office for their proactive response and assistance in this matter.

— Henderson Police Department Press Release

Marcus W. Barrow
Chief of Police
Henderson Police Department
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Home and Garden Show

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On the Home and Garden Show with Vance Co. Cooperative Ext.

  • The Vance County Regional Farmers Market is now open only on Saturdays from 8am to 1pm.
  • Soil Sample Season Is Now!
  • Sow tall fescue now through September 15th.
  • Irrigation is needed on newly planted grass and newly planted transplants.
  • Control Fire Ants now that the weather is cooler.
  • Check for Pecan trees for Pecan weevil. Tie a burlap bag around the portion of the pecan tree. If weevils are visible under the burlap bag after a few days. Treat the base of the tree and ground around the tree with liquid Sevin.
  • Check for insects on any recently planted transplants.
  • Record what went well and not so well  in your garden journal. Include varieties.
  • When purchasing transplants look for a dark green color of leaves, stay away from pot bound transplants.
  • Carolina lawns is the best publication for having a good lawn.
  • Start ordering your fall planting bulbs now.
  • Check houseplants dust weekly with a soft cloth.
  • Check storage areas for mice.

The Vance County Cooperative Extension is located at 305 Young St, Henderson, NC 27536

The Vance County Regional Farmers Market is located at 210 Southpark Dr., Henderson, NC 27536

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The Local Skinny! FVW Opportunity Receives $40,000 Grant From SECU Foundation

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Franklin Vance Warren Opportunity, Inc. (FVWOPP) announces it has received a $40,000 Mission Development Grant from the SECU Foundation to strengthen organizational capacity and sustainability in support of programs serving Henderson and the region.

Abdul Sm Rasheed, CEO/Advisor, FVWOP said, “We celebrate yet another triumph with honor as a recipient of the State Employees Credit Union (SECU) Mission Development Grant. As one of fourteen  recipients, we are extremely grateful for this opportunity and partnership with SECU. This $40,000 grant, is an investment and a significant catalyst to a new partnership for FVWOPP as we continue to build capacity and sustainability to advance our organizational infrastructure to maximize successful outcomes.”

A ceremonial check presentation was held Wednesday, September 4 at 2 p.m. at FVW OPP Headquarters, 180 S. Beckford Drive.

Franklin Vance Warren Opportunity, Inc. is a community-focused organization dedicated to advancing opportunity, improving economic mobility, and supporting families across Henderson and surrounding communities.

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Henderson Fire Department; New Engine 1

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The Henderson Fire Department’s most recent purchase was officially recognized Friday afternoon during a “push-in” ceremony at Fire Station 1 on Dabney Drive. The shiny new Fire Engine 1 was ceremoniously backed into its bay, ready to go out on its first call.

During remarks at the 1 p.m. gathering, Fire Chief Tim Twisdale pointed out that there’s a memorial on the back door of the truck to remind firefighters and anyone else who sees it about the former fire chief, the late Steve Cordell.

The purchase was initiated by Cordell in September 2022. “We remember him as we put it officially in service,” Twisdale said.

It takes that long to get a truck like this one built, Twisdale said. “It’s a pretty big deal when we get to make a purchase like that. It should last for 20 years or more and the chief predicted that it would respond to 2,000 calls a year.

Audio of Chief Twisdale. Click Play!

The price tag? A staggering $763,000. But if he were to order the same thing today, that number would be somewhere around the $1 million mark.

“It’s a custom truck,” he said. “It’s built piece by piece from the frame rails to the lights and the final touches and polished pieces.”

Battalion Chiefs Lee Edmonds, Kyle Holtzman and Engineer Chase Carter put in a lot of hours researching the various components to make sure this truck would be equipped with the very best tools to make it the most efficient it can be.

“This one is built from the ground up,” Twisdale said. One component is the pump, which can handle 2,000 gallons, a capacity that helps the fire department keep its ISO rating of 2 – it all has to do with bringing people and water to a fire emergency within a certain amount of time.

This truck’s primary job “will be to respond to fires and emergency medical calls in the center of the city,” he said.

Twisdale said having this new truck added to the fleet will enable the city to be ready to house fire engines in a new station, if and when construction begins.

“We strive to stretch the dollars that we do receive as far as we can,” Twisdale said.

The Local Skinny! Vance County Schools Asks Commissioners For 5% Match Of State Grant Funding For Repair Projects

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The majority of Vance County’s schools need some work, from roof repairs and paint  to sewer lift station upgrades and new windows and doors. All that work would surely come with a hefty price tag, but Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett has a work-around that she presented Tuesday to the Vance County Board of Commissioners.

The work-around comes in the form of a state-administered grant for capital improvements and Vance County could stand to get more than $47 million to make those necessary repairs and renovations, Bennett told commissioners Tuesday.

“The capital needs grant allows us to apply for $47.2 million as a school district,” Bennett stated in her comments to the board. All the commissioners need to do is agree to a 5 percent match.

If the school district were to be approved to receive the maximum amount, the 5 percent match would amount to about $2.5 million.

The matching funds wouldn’t have to be paid all at once; rather, the money could come in over the course of the projects, which could take several years.

Bennett and Vance County Manager C. Renee Perry agree that Vance County is poised to receive the funding because of its Tier 1 designation and because it hasn’t applied previously to get the funding.

Time is of the essence, however, and that’s why Bennett and VCS Chief Finance Officer John Suther appealed to the commissioners for financial support. The grant opened on Aug. 15 and the application came online on Aug. 18, Bennett explained. All documentation must be back to the N.C. Department of Public Instruction no later than Oct. 3.

Although she expressed full support for the plan, Perry said she would request that commissioners have a chance to review the documents shared by Bennett before the board makes a decision.

“I’m in full support,” Perry said, but suggested that commissioners review and discuss the matter at an upcoming work session and then make a decision at a special called meeting in a couple of weeks. As of Thursday morning, that special meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 4 p.m. The matching funds for the schools is one of three topics to be discussed.

“We need to look at our fund balance,” Perry said. “We also have to think about (other) capital projects. The school district gets money from the county each year that is designated for capital outlay, so perhaps some of that money from the budget line item could be used as part of the 5 percent match, she said.

Commissioner Tommy Hester called the decision a “no brainer” since the school district normally relies on county funding for capital projects. A 5 percent match is like saying the county will get a 95 percent discount if the state approves the grant funding.

 

(Our WIZS written coverage will appear here soon.)

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