Fayetteville Observer Voter Guide: Meet the candidates for Hope Mills commissioner, Part 1

The Hope Mills Board of Commissioners race is a busy one, with all five incumbents seeking reelection and eight challengers hoping to unseat them in the Nov. 7 election.

Competing for the five at-large seats are incumbents Jerry Legge, Bryan A. Marley, Kenjuana McCray, Grilley Mitchell and Joanna Scarola, and challengers Elyse Craver, Pat Edwards, Mark Hess, Patrick Mitchell, Deanna L. Rosario, Karen Smith Saracen, Ronald Starling and Ronnie Strong.

Below are answers to a Fayetteville Observer candidate questionnaire from Craver, Edwards, Hess, Legge, Marley and McCray. The answers have been edited for style and grammar.

You can find the other candidates' responses here.

Elyse Craver

Immediate family: Children: Michelle and Robert Taylor; Melody and Michael Lance

Occupation: Retired

Elected office held: Former town of Hope Mills commissioner

Contact information: Email: ecraver12@gmail.comPhone: 910-849-8078Social Media – Facebook - Elyse Craver for Commissioner

For incumbents: What do you consider to be your greatest achievement or achievements in office? For challengers: What issue or issues compelled you to seek office? 

I have been a resident of Hope Mills for more than 50 years and during this time have witnessed tremendous growth and changes. As a parent, grandparent, homeowner, and former business owner, I understand the importance of living in a town where safety and good quality of life are vital and a top priority. A town where families can raise their children and older adults can live in harmony.

I am seeking a position on the Town Board for these reasons. I want to be the voice of our citizens. If I am elected to the Town Board, I will ensure all citizens will be heard. I want to see planned commercial growth all while keeping our Town’s heritage and historical buildings/properties intact. I want more attention given to our roads, streets, drainage and traffic congestion.

What do you consider to be the top three to five challenges facing the town of Hope Mills?

a. Traffic congestion, repairs and maintenance to our roads/streets and updates/cleaning of ourstormwater/drainage systems.b. Planned commercial growth.c. Public transportation, diversity and culture.

a. I feel our greatest challenge is our roads. More attention needs to be spent on improving our roads and streets. Hope Mills’ traffic can be a nightmare! Our streets are in desperate need of maintenance. I plan to work continuously with the NCDOT to clean up our state-owned medians from trash, debris and overgrown weeds.b. We need to work with real estate developers to bring in new businesses. New businesses will bring in additional tax dollars and job opportunities while attracting new residents. Strict zoning ordinances need to be enforced.c. Public transportation may remedy some of our traffic congestion while allowing our citizens an alternative mode of transportation. Hope Mills would greatly benefit if we would add more culture to our town, including museum(s), concert(s), and other artistic endeavors.

What are your ideas for attracting new investment and new residents to the town, especially young families? 

While we have a multitude of baseball fields and parks that encourage youth participation, we need to partner with commercial real estate developers and businesses to develop a strategic plan on what type of business and industry would best fit the needs of our community to better our standard of living.

What does Hope Mills need that it doesn't have? This could be people, resources, organizations, business or infrastructure.

As previously listed and discussed, I feel we need new residents, resources organizations, business and infrastructure. Better communication and understanding of our citizens’ needs; updated stormwater drainage, improved maintenance and cleaning of our roads and streets; enforcement of strict zoning and town ordinances; public transportation; the addition of the arts and more citizen participation on our volunteer committees.

How have you or how will you engage with your constituents? 

We have more opportunities than ever before to interact with our constituents and to involve community members in local government. I look forward to engaging in constructive conversation with my constituents. In addition to telephone, email, texts and personal contact, social media networks are a great way to communicate with citizens on a regular basis. These social media platforms provide a great opportunity to keep constituents informed. I will work with our local Chamber of Commerce, Civic Organizations and other community groups to ensure open communication. As a retired professional, I have the time and resources to lend a knowledgeable and sympathetic ear to address my constituents’ needs and concerns.

Pat Edwards

Immediate family: Widowed. Two daughters, Kim and Teresa; three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Occupation: Retired

Elected office held: Hope Mills commissioner for five terms (2011-2021); did not run last time.

Contact information: Hm.pat.edwards@gmail.com or 910-751-0369

For incumbents: What do you consider to be your greatest achievement or achievements in office? For challengers: What issue or issues compelled you to seek office? 

Credits and accomplishments: Civil Service-retired, 27 years GS11. Support to the Directorate of Logistics XVIII Airborne Corps and Fort Bragg. President of Delta Theta Tau Sorority (Philanthropic). Business Woman of The Year Award (ABWA) Highland Chapter. Director Hope Mills Sunshine Senior Center, 16 years. Graduated from the Ann Johnson Institute of Senior Center Management through the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Past member Cumberland County Home and Community Care Block Grant Committee Mid Carolina Council of Government. Presented the Congressional Citation by Congressman Mike McIntyre. Presented the North Carolina State Award by Governor Beverly Purdue. Twice Past President Hope Mills Kiwanis. Hope Mills Kiwanian of the Year recipient. Received Founders Honor Circle from Carolinas District Kiwanis Foundation. Served on five commissions of Hope Mills: Veterans Affairs, Special Events, Nominating Committee, Air Quality Stakeholders and Regional Land Use Advisory Commission. Board member, secretary and Ambassador Hope Mills Chamber of Commerce. Poll worker and Judge for Cumberland County Board of Elections.

What do you consider to be the top three to five challenges facing the town of Hope Mills?

Infrastructure is vital to our economic development. Our infrastructure will include transportation, communications, water, sewage and electrical systems. There are empty buildings that need to be promoted to bring businesses into Hope Mills before any more strip malls. Most of the empty buildings have water, sewage and electricity. We need more transportation for our senior citizens. One challenge will be for the voters to know who they are voting for and what the commissioner's duties are. When they are sworn to office and they swear to comply with their duties that is what you voted for them to do. One commissioner cannot promise you anything working alone. We consist of five commissioners and we are to work and pull together for the betterment of the people of Hope Mills. We may not always agree on issues but working with the town manager and his staff things will be resolved. That’s one reason we need more transparency with the citizens. We need a way of communication that all will see. We need to share the positive things we are doing not just the negativity. We should never become a commissioner with a personal agenda or vendetta. Just my thoughts again.

What are your ideas for attracting new investment and new residents to the town, especially young families? 

Young families are looking for a safe environment for their children. School systems, services, youth activities, churches and friendships. Hope Mills is in the process of upgrading the old golf course. I have been told it will consist of an enhanced walking trail, expanded ponds, creek access, amphitheaters, community center with basketball courts, a nature preserve (30% of site), stormwater features, a community center, site amenities to include picnic shelters, benches and tables. That would sound very intriguing to families. We are striving for a walking community and bicycling paths. We should invest in bowling lanes and skating rinks. I personally would love to see a senior citizen center (like the Bill Crisp Senior Center). That is just wishful thinking on my part.

What does Hope Mills need that it doesn't have? This could be people, resources, organizations, business or infrastructure.

Infrastructure is always a priority in Hope Mills. With the 295 loop coming and the development of Exit 41 off I-95 there will be more annexation and more people moving to our area. During this transition, we will experience more congested roadways and it will get worse. The Town is working with DOT to get this accomplished as soon as possible. I realize there are a lot of upset citizens. I understand this but it is part of our town growing. Just remember this is temporary and the end will justify the beginning. We just have to be patient and work together. I would love to see an ordinance in place to regulate the businesses coming to Town. I don’t mean to discourage them just not have the same type business on every corner. We need to have the residents in Hope Mills to support our local businesses. We have some interesting shops on Trade Street, how many of us have actually checked them out? We could have some very quaint shops if we would support them. We definitely need to reach out for family restaurants. A steak house would be great. What about nice clothing stores? We need businesses that will keep residents here instead of going to other towns for dining.

How have you or how will you engage with your constituents? 

I want to engage with my constituents the way I have in the past. I listen and observe. I do not make quick decisions. I weigh the pros and cons on how any decision-making would affect the town and citizens; I have never had a personal agenda. I love Hope Mills and want what’s best for all (regardless of age). Our population is growing rapidly and we need to grow with it. The center of town can still maintain its quaintness and our beautiful lake adds so much. I still want to see as one of our top priorities is to finish what we have started. We have already finished our Service Complex. Heritage Park is in the process. Plans for the old golf course will soon be underway. I live meeting people. One of the greatest is listening to the senior population and their families. They are eager to share their stories and to see the twinkle in their eyes knowing that someone is listening to them. My feelings are strongest in helping our senior population, our service area and keeping ADA in compliance.

Mark Hess

Age: 67

Immediate family: Three

Occupation: Traffic control officer with Cumberland County Sheriff. Motorcycle coach with FTCC and Bull Dog H-D

Elected office held: None

Contact information: garffan@yahoo.com

For incumbents: What do you consider to be your greatest achievement or achievements in office? For challengers: What issue or issues compelled you to seek office? 

Traffic issues and increasing crime.

What do you consider to be the top three to five challenges facing the town of Hope Mills?

Traffic, parks and recreation, losing their small-town charm.

What are your ideas for attracting new investment and new residents to the town, especially young families? 

I moved here 31 years ago and chose Hope Mills because it wasn’t Fayetteville. Control its growth and infrastructure to keep the small town feel. This may include police and fire services increased.

What does Hope Mills need that it doesn't have? This could be people, resources, organizations, business or infrastructure.

Greater variety of restaurants, infrastructure concerns from rapid growth.

How have you or how will you engage with your constituents? 

Phone, e-mail, open office hours. I am usually in the area and easily reached

Jerry Dale Legge

Age: 80

Immediate family: I am happily married to Diana; we have been married for 44 years. We have three daughters, Tammy, Chrissy and Bobbi.

Occupation: I owned and operated Better Built Builders for over 20 years. I am now retired from building. I am still working as one of five commissions for the Town of Hope Mills. I have served as commissioner for 24 years now and look forward to serving two more years.

Elected office held: I was elected as one of five commissioners for the Town of Hope Mills. October will be the end of my 24th year. I plan to run again this term. If I am elected, I will be proud to serve two more years, if I am not elected, I thank the people of Hope Mills for the last 24 years you let me serve you and I will still support the town in any way that I can.

Contact information: I can be reached best by phone at 910-527-7497. You can email me at jerrylegge43@gmail.com

For incumbents: What do you consider to be your greatest achievement or achievements in office? For challengers: What issue or issues compelled you to seek office? 

I consider my greatest achievement this term to be the completion of the John Hodges Public Safety building that houses our police and fire departments.

The parking lots behind the town buildings have been paved for additional parking for town residents who will be using the recreational facilities and town offices.

I am proud of my part as commissioner negotiating with the builders of the previous dam for a $9-plus million settlement which was used to build the present dam.

What do you consider to be the top three to five challenges facing the town of Hope Mills?

The most challenging things for the commissioners are the roads and traffic, however, DOT deals with traffic and main roads. We are also working to develop the Golfview Greenway. We have to do it in phases because of the high price of construction. We have designated $1.4 million towards phase one. We have just been awarded money from the state to be used for the development of Heritage Park. We have a lot on our plate with development of Heritage Park, the Greenway, and the day-to-day projects that our staff does.

What are your ideas for attracting new investment and new residents to the town, especially young families? 

I know that young families come to Hope Mills as a place to raise their children because of our Recreational programs. But I think we could also bring in a developer who could build an amphitheater and have monthly concerts for the citizens, similar to what Fayetteville does. “Hope Mills Saturday in the Park” we can have local bands or pay for a headliner and charge to enter, either way, it's recreation for our citizens.

What does Hope Mills need that it doesn't have? This could be people, resources, organizations, business or infrastructure.

We need to support small businesses in Hope Mills and keep our town strong.

We have Heritage Park that needs to be addressed.

I think that we need a public common place where people can go that is safe, is well lit and has places to sit and enjoy the weather and have conversation. Maybe have picnic lunches. No charge to enjoy the scenery or read a book. It could be the “Commons at Golfview Greenway.”

How have you or how will you engage with your constituents? 

I have always been available to engage with anyone that needs me. If a town resident needs my assistance with any issue, they can call or email me. My address is also listed on the town website. I have never hidden from the people of our town or the officials that run it. I would be honored to speak to anyone that has an issue.

Bryan A. Marley

Age: 47

Immediate family: Wife, Traci L. Marley; and sons, Ray A. Marley and TJ Craig

Occupation: Hoke County Emergency Management director/fire marshal

Elected office held: Commissioner, Town of Hope Mills

Contact information: Phone: 910-308-1000; email: bmarley@townofhopemills.com

For incumbents: What do you consider to be your greatest achievement or achievements in office? For challengers: What issue or issues compelled you to seek office? 

The number of projects that the board has been able to complete that have been in the works for some time now. These include the Public Safety Center, numerous Parks and Recreation improvements such as the upgraded Basket Ball Court, Inclusive Playground, Splash Pad, Episcopal Church improvements with a restroom facility.

What do you consider to be the top three to five challenges facing the town of Hope Mills?

Hope Mills continues to deal with growth. Growth is a good thing and the board needs to continue to maintain smart growth. Traffic is a concern with growth as well. Recruitment and retention of all town staff especially with the Emergency Services Departments of the town. The ability to maintain the above-mentioned while balancing budgets without tax increases to the citizens of Hope Mills.

What are your ideas for attracting new investment and new residents to the town, especially young families? 

The town should be seeking out more partnerships with corporations as well as local businesses for new investment opportunities with the town. As the town grows, more improvements in quality of life projects with Parks and Recreation as well as conveniences for town residents will make the town more attractive for younger families.

What does Hope Mills need that it doesn't have? This could be people, resources, organizations, business or infrastructure.

Infrastructure is always a concern. Many roads in town are showing their age. More affordable housing is needed. More sit-down family-style restaurants along with specialized shopping so town residents can stay in town and not have to travel to surrounding areas while supporting our local Small Businesses as well.

How have you or how will you engage with your constituents? 

I have always listened to anybody who has reached out to me through email or phone calls. I am approachable. I attend as many functions as I can. I like to receive any feedback both good and bad.

Dr. Kenjuana McCray

Age: 45

Immediate family: Amaya 14, and Zaire 25

Occupation: Dean of Arts & Humanities at Fayetteville Technical Community College

Elected office held: Two terms as mayor pro team, Town of Hope Mills Board of Commissioners

Contact information: kmccray@townofhopemills.com; 910-494-1352; website: votekenjuanmccray.com

For incumbents: What do you consider to be your greatest achievement or achievements in office? For challengers: What issue or issues compelled you to seek office? 

I have been a part of a team that has made these efforts successful for our community to include my fellow board members, staff, and our state legislators.1. Development projects• Allocated $1.4 million for a Sports Complex: This investment has the potential to not only provide recreational opportunities but also generate substantial revenue (over $3 million annually) for the town through baseball tournaments.2. State funding• Secured $5 million+ in state capital and infrastructure funding, the largest amount in state allocation funding in Hope Mills’ history.• Allocation of funds for specific projects, including an all-inclusive playground, creek bed clearing, and stormwater projects: These projects addressed the town's environmental and recreational needs.3. Heritage Park• Successful grant funding of over $1 million: Securing grants demonstrates the town's commitment to preserving and promoting its heritage.4. Public Safety Center• Completion of the state-of-the-art public safety center: This facility enhances the town's ability to respond to emergencies and natural disasters, ensuring the safety of its residents.5. Community engagement and youth initiatives• Hope Mills Prime Movers Committee: The formation of this committee shows the town's commitment to engaging young adults and encouraging community service.• ICON program support: Supporting internship opportunities for high school students is an investment in the future workforce and a valuable way to introduce them to careers in local government.Establishment of overlay districts to ensure own town is not saturated with the same types of business.

What do you consider to be the top three to five challenges facing the town of Hope Mills?

Managing the demands of a growing population with limited resources. This is a layered answer — we need more building space and staff to meet the needs of a growing Hope Mills.

Balancing the growth of the town while preserving local culture and traditions.

What are your ideas for attracting new investment and new residents to the town, especially young families? 

Community engagement: Fostering a sense of community by organizing events, festivals, and activities that bring people together can attract businesses and families to Hope Mills. Our town does a great job of hosting community events. We host Trunk or Treat, Breakfast with Santa, 4th of July Celebrations that draw thousands of people, a Christmas parade, a Sept. 11 program, litter sweeps, community yard sales, national night out, blood drives, family fun days, concerts, among many others.

Affordable housing options: Affordable housing is a critical factor for families and businesses. If housing costs are reasonable, it becomes more feasible for families to move to the area, and businesses can offer competitive compensation packages to their employees.

Promote education and workforce development: A well-educated and skilled workforce is essential for economic growth. Investing in education and workforce development programs ensures that the local population has the skills and qualifications that businesses need. This can include partnerships with local schools, vocational training, and higher education opportunities. The town has done this with its partnership with Fayetteville Technical Community College through the HOPE Program.

Transportation and connectivity: Improving transportation options, including public transit to make our community more accessible and inclusive. We are working on a plan to make our community more pedestrian-safe.

What does Hope Mills need that it doesn't have? This could be people, resources, organizations, business or infrastructure.

Public transportation: The absence of public transportation can limit mobility and access to essential services for residents, particularly in a town like Hope Mills with a population of around 20,000 people. I hope that the board that gets elected continues to explore options for public transportation, such as buses or shuttles. Public transportation can be beneficial in reducing traffic congestion, improving accessibility, and providing transportation alternatives.

I would like to see a physical business HUB in Hope Mills that works closely with our chamber to support existing and incoming businesses and entrepreneurs.

Our infrastructure has outgrown the population.

We need more staff and space to accommodate a growing parks and recreation program and staff to provide the services that our citizens need.

How have you or how will you engage with your constituents? 

I have a very active social media page. I help host events in the community to allow me a chance to engage with my constituents.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Candidates for Hope Mills Board of Commissioners, Part 1