Tag Archive for: #franksossamon

The Local Skinny! Vance And Granville Benefit From State Budget Appropriations

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State employees, current and retired, who live in District 32 join others across the state who will see bumps in salaries and retirement checks, thanks to provisions in the budget most recently approved in Raleigh.

In his first months in the N.C. House representing District 32, Frank Sossamon helped secure those provisions, but that’s not all the freshman representative has been busy with.

Sossamon has been involved in attracting a wide variety of programs and projects- with a pricetag of $44 million – to the district.

“I look forward to seeing the great impact these projects will have on my community,” Sossamon said in a press release. “This budget will allow our state to continue to receive recognition as a great place to own a business and live.”

In addition to salaries for teachers and other state workers, the state budget includes $2 billion for water and sewer improvement projects and more than $620 million for behavioral mental health programs. And Sossamon has secured large slices of the budget pie in those two areas to come right here to Vance and Granville counties.

Sossamon spoke with WIZS News Tuesday about being a legislator. “It’s amazing to me the kind of reception I’ve received from the very beginning,” he said, adding that he has been appointed to some important committees, including the powerful Appropriations Committee.

He said he talked with a lot of legislators to make sure District 32 was included in discussions. “I worked hard with every chairman and vice chairman. Not only did we do a proposal for each (project), but I verbally expressed why these projects need to be supported.”

And that hard work seems to have paid off.

Vance-Granville Community College is getting $11.5 million to create an Advanced Manufacturing Center in Granville County’s Triangle North Business Park. “It’s going to be a game changer,” Sossamon said. It will show prospective businesses looking in the area that District 32 can train workers and support business and manufacturing. “This is going to put us in a different position than we’ve ever been in” for recruiting business and industry, he said.

“This makes me feel good that this is now happening and moving forward,” he added.

And $10 million is flowing to the City of Oxford for water improvements with Kerr Lake Regional Water System.

Maria Parham Healthcare Center is getting $5 million to bolster its capacity and ability to improve mental health and substance abuse outcomes.

Other water and sewer projects – including $4 million for Vance County and $5 million for South Granville Water and Sewer round out the 7-figure awards.

Sossamon said the work he does in Raleigh is just part of the overall effort to effect change. “In addition to VGCC, Kerr-Tar COG and economic development leaders, he said “it takes every entity in the district, in each county, every municipality,” he said. “It takes all those, and others, to see these things come to fruition. Everybody has to be going – economically – in the same direction.”

Prospective businesses and industry choose communities for a variety of reasons, not just a pool of trained employees. Education and crime are key indicators, too, and Vance County is getting more than $691,000 to provide the sheriff’s office with body-worn cameras and support equipment. ”We have some appropriation chairs that are pro-law enforcement,” Sossamon noted. “Any time they can support law enforcement, they’re gonna do it.

Sossamon said he predicts the body cameras will be a morale builder for the sheriff and his officers. Having a state-of-the-art department will be a selling point for recruiting, he said.

I’m thrilled for Sheriff Brame,” he said. “I’m elated that this kind of money is coming to the different entities in Vance County to have a better quality of life.”

Hard work lobbying notwithstanding, Sossamon said he is pleased so far with the outcomes for his district.

“I’m trying to do all I can…(for) not just one, but every person.” And that’s what he says he’ll continue to do. “I really want to make our counties better than what they are now.”

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TownTalk: Sossamon Discusses Broadband Internet For Vance County

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N.C. Rep. Frank Sossamon is scheduling information sessions for residents in Vance and Granville counties to discuss relevant topics of interest to his neighbors who are now his constituents.

The first forum, set for Monday, Sept. 18 at Perry Memorial Library, is about broadband internet. The meeting is just one way to connect residents with the appropriate state government staff. Things get underway at 6 p.m., but Sossamon said it’s a time when residents can not only learn about programs but also share concerns with those whose jobs are carrying out projects at the local level.

“I’m bringing the people you need to talk to – the folks that are dealing with this day in, day out,” Sossamon said. “They can answer questions, send you additional information… they will give you means to get in touch with them. If you have a concern,” he said.

Sossamon was on TownTalk Tuesday, and he said he takes to heart his responsibility to represent the people in House District 32 – and part of that includes providing information.

“I get a lot of calls and emails about broadband,” he said, so he chose that for the first forum topic.

A second forum on broadband connection will be presented in Granville County at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 26 at the Granville County Expo Center on Hwy. 15 just south of Oxford.

The topic for October is transportation, with dates and locations below:

  • Granville: 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17 at the Granville County Expo Center
  • Vance: 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26 in the commissioners’ room at the old Courthouse.

 

The dates and locations for November’s topic – mental health – are still being worked out, he noted.

Representatives from the state’s department of information technology will be on hand to explain terminology, and answering questions like “what is the Digital Divide?” and “when will broadband be available in my area?”

There are programs that offer discounts to eligible residents for broadband access, Sossamon said.

“If it’s available, but not affordable, it means nothing to the average person,” he said.

Participants can view a color-coded map to have an idea of where connectivity already exists and proposed next steps to add connectivity.

There’s also a survey that can be submitted to state officials to provide feedback.

“It’s important to the state…so they can see how well they’re doing, especially in Vance and Granville counties,” Sossamon said.

Contracts have been awarded to provide broadband internet, but it takes time, he reminded.

Realtors will be invited to meetings earlier in the day for the transportation forums. The 10 a.m. gatherings will take place in the same location as the evening sessions. Sossamon said he wanted to have a special time with realtors because “they are extremely interested in what’s going to happen to roads.”

DOT divisional directors will be on hand for realtors at 10 a.m., governmental leaders at 3 p.m. before sharing with the public at 6 p.m.

 

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N.C. Rep. Sossamon To Sponsor Sept. 18 Meeting To Learn About Broadband Progress In The Area

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Want to learn more about the state of broadband internet access in your area?

Rep. Frank Sossamon has organized a community forum to share information about what may be in store for the area with regard to broaband internet access.

The meeting will take place on Monday, Sept. 18 at Perry Memorial Library, 205 Breckenridge St. and will begin at 6 p.m.

Staff from the N.C. Department of Information Technology are scheduled to be present to provide residents with the most up-to-date information about this issue.

 

N.C. Rep. Frank Sossamon Plans Sept. 16 Meeting To Discuss Future Of Broadband Internet In Granville

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N.C. Rep. Frank Sossamon will be in Oxford on Saturday, Sept. 16 to have a dialogue about broadband internet access – how to improve it, why it’s important and its future role in daily life.

The town hall-style meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at the Granville County Expo Center, 4185 U.S. 15 South, Oxford.

“In today’s interconnected world, access to reliable and high-speed internet has become an essential utility, impacting education, healthcare, business and communication,” according to a press release from Sossamon’s office.  “Unfortunately, many members of our community still face challenges in accessing quality broadband services, hindering their ability to fully participate in the digital age.”

Representatives of the N.C. Dept. of Information Technology will be present to share information during the meeting, whose purpose is to facilitate an open and informed discussion about the state of broadband internet access in Granville County and to explore potential solutions and opportunities for improvement.

The meeting will feature informative presentations and will allow those in attendance to voice concerns, ask questions and contribute their perspectives.

Rep. Sossamon Selected For Hunt Institute Elevate NC 2023 Cohort

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Rep. Frank Sossamon is among a group of individuals that form the Hunt Institute Elevate NC 2023 Cohort, a group that brings together leaders work on making positive impacts on education across the state.

In a press statement, Sossamon said it was an honor to be selected. “Education is the cornerstone of our society, and I am committed to exploring innovative solutions that will empower our students to reach their full potential. By collaborating with like-minded individuals, I am confident that we can create meaningful change that will positively impact our educational system,” he stated.

The Elevate NC program provides a platform for Sossamon and the others in the cohort “to engage in constructive dialogue, share insights, and collaborate with a diverse group of individuals who are equally passionate about the future of education,” the statement read.  The cohort will have interactive sessions, workshops and discussions to address pressing educational challenges, allowing the members to work together to identify actionable strategies that can be implemented at the state and local levels

Learn more at : https://hunt-institute.org/news/the-hunt-institute-announces-third-cohort-of-elevatenc/

N.C. Rep Sossamon Takes Field Trip To Visit Vance County Schools

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– Information courtesy of Vance County Schools

N.C. Rep. Frank Sossamon visited several Vance County Schools recently as a participant in the first year of “Bring Your Legislator to School” Day.

Sossamon represents District SS, which includes Vance County. He visited E.M. Rollins STEAM Academy, Dabney Elementary, STEM Early High School and the district’s Center for Innovation.

Lawmakers were invited by members of the NC Teacher of the Year and Principal of the Year Network, the Public School Forum of North Carolina, and bi-partisan legislative sponsors to visit schools in their respective jurisdictions and engage with school communities. Sossamon joined more than 70 fellow legislators who accepted the invitation to visit schools in their districts.

School principals, as well as Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett joined Sossamon as he toured the schools and chatted with teachers and students.

The goal of this visit was to show legislators what current state investment in education looks like in practice during the day-to-day reality of North Carolina’s elementary and secondary schools.

Granville Native Named Forestry Scholarship Winner

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A Granville County native has received the 2023 Nicholas M. Curtis Memorial Scholarship Endowment by the North Carolina Forestry Association.

Cameron Carter will receive the $2,000 scholarship, established in memory of Curtis, whose commitment to sustainable foresty was matched only by his desire to help others.

In a press release issued by his office,  N.C. Rep. Frank Sossamon noted Carter’s achievements. Sossamon represents District 32, which includes Granville County.

“I am so proud of Cameron and the great things that he is doing. As a former Marine and member of the Student Veterans Association, he has already shown incredible dedication to serving others, and his commitment to his studies is equally impressive.”

The Nicholas M. Curtis Memorial Scholarship Endowment is a testament to the importance of education, service and community involvement. Sossamon expressed his gratitude for Cameron’s commitment to these values and his confidence in his future success. “Cameron has already accomplished so much, and I know that he will continue to achieve great things. He is a shining example of the kind of leader and professional that we need in Granville County and beyond.”

Sossamon Sworn In As Dist. 32 Rep In N.C. House

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Frank Sossamon was sworn in last week as the new legislator representing Vance and Granville counties in the N.C. House before an audience of supporters in the lobby of McGregor Hall.

The Hon. John Dunlow administered the oath of office following remarks from county officials representing the local county commissions and chairmen of the Republican party.

Sossamon defeated incumbent Terry Garrison in the November mid-term elections. He had an official swearing-in on Wednesday in Raleigh.

In comments during the ceremony in Henderson earlier in the week, Sossamon recounted how he reached the decision to put throw his hat into the proverbial ring.

“The Lord used my own words against me,” Sossamon quipped, explaining that he told his church members to “be that somebody” to make change.

“I became that somebody,” Sossamon said. “I’m in it to serve the people.”

The retired pastor of South Henderson Pentecostal Church, Sossamon said he is going to have to “work hard and work fast and work smart” to get things done in Raleigh in his two-year term.

“Under my watch, I want us to be able to say that District 32 is one of the most prosperous districts” in the state; he said it currently ranks among the poorest districts.

He wants to focus on community development in both counties, which he said would have the side effects of decreasing crime, increasing educational opportunities and give young people hope.

“If we want company to come, we’ve got to clean up our house,” he said.

In an interview with WIZS News following the swearing-in, Sossamon said he looks forward to serving the people in District 32 to get some things done, and he said he will challenge the citizens he represents to join him in the effort.

Representative-Elect Sossamon To Be Sworn In On Jan. 10 At McGregor Hall

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Frank Sossamon will be sworn in as the newest representative for N.C. House District 32 Tuesday and the public is invited to attend.

The swearing-in ceremony will be held at McGregor Hall on Jan. 10 at 6 p.m.

Superior Court Judge John Dunlow will administer the oath of office.

District 32 includes Vance and Granville counties.

During the run up to the 2022 midterm elections, candidate Sossamon focused on priorities which include generating local jobs, encouraging small business development, improving education and reducing crime throughout the district.

Town Talk: Sossamon Discusses District 32 Candidacy

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The following is part of WIZS’s continuing coverage of candidates running for local and state office in the November election.

 

Frank Sossamon has participated in several organized community forums lately as part of his campaign for the District 32 seat in the N.C. House. There have been two in Vance County and one in Granville County so far, and more are being planned in the runup to the November elections.

Sossamon, a Republican, is challenging incumbent Democrat Terry Garrison for the seat, which includes all of Vance County and most of Granville County.

The Republicans candidates for sheriff in their respective counties also were in attendance for these forums, the topic of which was crime. And Sossamon told John C. Rose on Monday’s Town Talk that the discussions have been productive, and each has informed him in some way about what the community’s priorities.

“When you talk about crime, it overlaps education, economic development, community development – it overlaps everything,” Sossamon said. “It’s hard to just concentrate on crime without talking about other issues.”

Effective communication is going to be a critical component to making progress and taking action on issues within the district, he said. “I’m hoping to help bring us together. There’s a lot we can accomplish if we work together.” Ongoing political stalemates don’t accomplish much, he said.

Change will require more than just dialogue across party lines, however. “We’ve got to have a cultural change and an attitude change,” Sossamon said. Change has to come about as a result of participation from the whole community, he added. “It can’t be done by one person or one department. It doesn’t just happen because you get some money or because you write some legislation.”

Building trust and putting aside differences are necessary as well, he said. “I’m hoping I can be a person to help – to take the skills and experience I’ve got and see what I can do to bring us together.”

On gun violence:

Sossamon said he is a strong supporter of the Second Amendment. When gun violence occurs, there’s always talk about taking away gun rights and taking away guns, he said. But he said there’s a need to look at other issues, too, such as the broken mental health system.

“Mental health seems to be a thread that runs among many of these mass shootings,” he said.

On education:

When issues surrounding public education arise, the answer seems to be “we just need more money,” Sossamon said. Throwing money at a problem does not always solve that problem, he added, saying that there must be accountability about how the money is being spent and the scientific evidence to show results.

“It’s obvious that the charter schools are doing something right,” he said, adding that parents with children in charter schools must volunteer a certain number of hours at the school each year.

Parent accountability is necessary, he said, adding that he certainly favors funding education, but holding parents accountable is necessary “to move that dial to educate our children.”

On Medicaid expansion:

“I am not opposed to expansion to a degree,” Sossamon said, “but I don’t want to just open the floodgates.”

He said he needs to continue to study the issue to reach a good conclusion, adding that he is not close-minded, but does want to be fair to all and not look at government as a “money machine.”

 

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