Veteran court clerk faces challenge from county commissioner in GOP primary

Gaston County Republican and unaffiliated voters will select the Clerk of Superior Court in May's primary election.

Roxann Rankin, 56, has worked in the court clerk's office for 38 years, and has held the top job since her appointment to replace Larry Brown on Oct. 1, 2020.

Her challenger, 61-year-old Allen Fraley has represented the Cherryville Township on the Gaston County Board of Commission for 18 years and works as general manager of the Cherryville ABC Board and as a real estate agent.

The winner of the May 17 GOP primary will not face formal opposition in November as no Democratic candidates filed for the post.

What does a clerk do?

Clerks are responsible for all clerical and record-keeping functions of the District and Superior Court. They also carry out certain judicial functions. Under North Carolina law, clerks are ex officio judges of probate. In addition, they have jurisdiction over certain foreclosures, guardianships, divorces, adoptions, name changes, and other pre- and post- judgment remedies.

Gaston County's Clerk of Superior Court's office has about 66 employees, all supervised by the elected official. The job pays about $128,000 a year.

Candidate questions

1. Why should voters pick you?

Rankin: I am the only candidate with judicial experience. I have worked in the clerk’s office for 38 years under elected clerks Betty Jenkins, Libby McAteer, and Larry Brown. I was appointed by the Honorable Jesse B. Caldwell III to fulfill Mr. Brown’s term, on his recommendation, and will continue the efficiency the public has come to expect.

Fraley: I understand the importance of delegating responsibility and holding people accountable. I have been responsible for preparing budgets and operating within them. I treat people fairly and I have the people skills to do the job. I leave nothing to chance, I follow up and will require everyone in the clerk’s office to do the same. I will lead from out front. I have been a commissioner/public servant for 18 years in Gaston County. I’ve had the privilege to work and meet with many people throughout Gaston County and the Courthouse over the years. I believe these relationships will be a big advantage and benefit when overseeing the clerk’s office.

2. What is the reason you decided to run for Clerk of Court?

Fraley: I think the voters always need a choice. There are obvious differences between me and my opponent. I have worked two jobs, while being a public servant as a Gaston County commissioner. My opponent has been a government employee her entire career, but I believe my real-life experience will pay better dividends to our citizens.

Rankin: I know the importance of having an elected clerk with experience. I have spent my entire career in this office serving the public. I want to continue providing our community the quality service from what I consider the best clerk’s office in this state.

3. What changes would you bring, if any, to the Gaston County Clerk of Court's Office?

Rankin: With new laws, such as automatic expunctions, a new computer system, pandemic, staff training, etc., we are in a constant state of change. I pledge to continue making changes necessary to provide the courts, judges, attorney’s, police, and public with the service they deserve.

Fraley: I will make the Clerk’s office as efficient as possible because I understand the importance of the bottom line and will implement my own management style over the next four years. My work ethic and concern for people along with my service as a commissioner makes me a strong candidate to run the office of Clerk of Court.

4. What kind of obstacle have you faced in your life, either professional or personal?

Fraley: I was heavily involved in real estate investments during the crash of 2007/2008, and it put me in a difficult position, but I didn't quit or give up. I found a new job and worked my way out of the situation. This is who I am. I will always figure out a solution to the problems we face, and I will make the best decision for the taxpayers and my employees.

Rankin: It has been a challenge following a clerk that was as popular as Mr. Brown. While he nominated me, and continues to support me, this is now my office and I need to be judged on how I run this office. I believe if you ask any judge, attorney, or person that uses the clerk’s office regularly that they will tell you how well this office runs.

5. Do you have a pet?

Rankin: Yes, I have 3 rescue cats.

Fraley: Yes, my family owns a dog named Remi Rhyne. She is in charge unless my grandchildren are visiting!

You can reach Kevin Ellis at 704-201-7016 or email him at kellis@gastongazette.com.

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Gaston Clerk of Court faces GOP challenge from county commissioner