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CLEMMONS

Incumbent Mike Rogers is the lone candidate for mayor on the Nov. 7 ballot in Clemmons while there are three candidates — Mike Combest, Bradley Taylor and Randy Wooden — running for three available council seats.

FOR MAYOR

Name:  Mike Rogers

Family: Wife, Betty; Son, Christopher

Occupation: Retired

What made you run for public office — first time or again?

As mayor, I will continue to provide the leadership for the implementation of goals and plans that previous councils have approved and promote our community in a positive manner. We must build on the successes that previous leaders have provided for our village and ensure that we strive to repair and maintain our infrastructure, which in turn will result in a sustained strong economic environment for our businesses and stable home values for our citizens. As shown with edited language in House Bill 5, it was and will continue to be one of my focuses to unify as many other elected officials to oppose all legislation that usurps local authority over development standards.

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Clemmons and what solution(s) would you propose?

The growth which we have experienced over the last 5-10 years continues and did not slow even during the height of the pandemic. Our planning department continues to receive development plans and inquiries on a regular basis. Clemmons remains an extremely desirable area, which has resulted in a diverse population whose roots originate from various regions around the United States, as well as abroad. We must continue our ongoing collaboration with county officials and other local municipal leaders to work toward strategic goals that not only affect us locally but that also have regional impacts. 

What makes you most worthy to be elected as mayor of Clemmons?

I currently serve as mayor, and service has always been a priority of mine. I have shown my commitment to the village throughout my time as both a resident and elected official. I have held numerous volunteer positions and memberships in local organizations, and during my first term as mayor I have generated positive outcomes for the village. These include successful lobbying efforts of our state representatives for no-match funding of $5.3 million dollars for projects and expansion. Thank you for allowing me to serve you as we focus on an exciting future with a dedicated staff committed to providing services and developing new amenities.

FOR COUNCIL

Name: Mike Combest

Age: 71

Family:  Wife of 47 years, Janice; Sons, Bradley, Kevin and Ian. Before making Clemmons our home, we lived the typical nomadic Army life, moving 21 times — living and serving on every continent but Antarctica.  

Occupation: Independent consultant specializing in operations and organization; U.S. Army (Retired)

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again? 

I’m working to earn another term on the council to help accomplish the same seven things I’ve always worked for — safe neighborhoods, incredibly low taxes, no debt, outstanding schools, a booming business sector, the absolute best services, safe and convenient travel and traffic. We are reaping the rewards of having a council that can recognize and overcome the challenges which thriving communities like ours will always face. And we’re reaping the rewards of having a council that recognizes opportunities and has the initiative and ability to capitalize on them.

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Clemmons and what solution(s) would you propose?

Our top challenge will be maintaining authority to set and enforce the zoning and building standards that are right for Clemmons. This year there was a full-scale assault in the N.C. legislature to pass numerous bills designed to strip local governments of their authority to set density standards for housing, set and enforce building standards, etc.  Fortunately, we were able to keep this legislation from passing. Defeating it took a great deal of hard work — coalition building, research, going to Raleigh to make our case, etc. We can’t rest because these special interest giveaways and their advocates will be back. We must be ready to defeat this effort again.

What makes you the most worthy candidate to be elected to the Clemmons Village Council?

I have an established, verifiable council record that shows unwavering commitment to be guided by and to apply the sound, conservative principles that got us where we are today. The first and most important principle is “Count Every Penny, Make Every Penny Count.” My council record demonstrates the ability and willingness to do the hard work required to make high payoff decisions about growth, funding, public safety, public services and so on.

 

Name: Bradley Taylor

Age: 32

Family: Single, three generations of family living in Clemmons

Occupation: higher education professional (senior director for campus engagement at High Point University)

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again?

Clemmons is my hometown, and I’m proud to live here. Two years ago, I chose to run for village council to get more involved and to focus on strategic community development for our future. The plans we make today affect the outcomes of tomorrow. It has been an honor to serve these past two years as one of your council members, and I am seeking re-election to continue our great work for the village. Clemmons is a vibrant community — one of the fastest growing — with a low tax rate, active business, many amenities and great public services. 

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Clemmons and what solution(s) would you propose?

There are two challenges, yet opportunities, ahead for Clemmons — strategic community development and future forecasting. We have a growing community; thus, our planning must be strategic to ensure our small-town feel. Our UDO (unified development ordinances) needs to be updated to meet the needs of future planning for both new and re-development. Currently, we are completing a comprehensive transportation plan update to have projects ready when funding becomes available. Our staff and council actively seek external funding sources to make improvement projects become reality. Lastly, future forecasting for budgeting, staffing and services is essential with increasing costs to continue delivering these wonderful services while not increasing the low tax rate.

What makes you the most worthy candidate to be elected to the Clemmons Village Council?

I’m your hometown candidate seeking re-election to support family-friendly growth. I will continue to work hard representing the citizens of Clemmons through active listening and advocating for citizen engagement. We have accomplished much these last two years — maintaining the low tax rate, road resurfacing, completing significant stormwater projects, new sidewalk connectors and more. My experience on the council, service with community organizations such as the Boy Scouts and Chambers of Commerce, and my professional career in higher education and relationship building will yield positive outcomes for Clemmons.

 

Name:  Randy Wooden

Age: 63

Family: Sons, Matt and Rob

Occupation: Director, Professional Center by Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again?  

It’s my first run for public office. I’m a servant leader and have spent much of my professional life helping individuals and corporations reach their goals. I look to give back to a Clemmons community I’ve called home since 2000.

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Clemmons and what solution(s) would you propose?  

Clemmons already has solid leadership. Maintaining fiscal responsibility while continuing to grow our community is important. It’s not “my” money being spent. It’s yours. And I’ll work to ensure we continue to be fiscally responsible. 

What makes you the most worthy candidate to be elected to the Clemmons Village Council?

Each candidate is worthy. We all have a passion for making Clemmons a thriving community. My experience serving on the Clemmons Planning Board has provided me with valuable knowledge and perspective I can bring as a council member. That aside, I see myself a someone with a passion to serve and help my community. You’ve probably read my columns in the newspaper and have seen my TV segments. I’m immersed in the community and look to help Clemmons continue to be a great place to live and work. 

• Compiled by Jim Buice

 

LEWISVILLE

Incumbent Mike Horn is the lone candidate for mayor on the Nov. 7 ballot in Lewisville while there are seven candidates — Ven Challa, Ivan Huffman, Melissa Hunt, Monte Long, Julia Puckett, Ken Sadler and Jane Welch — running for six available council seats.

FOR MAYOR

Name: Mike Horn  

Age: 70

Family: Wife, Fanny Stronach

Occupation: Redirected (Not ready for retirement yet)

What made you run for public office — first time or again?

We have major projects coming online over the next two years. Also, if I had chosen not to seek re-election, there was a high likelihood that Lewisville would have had at least four council members (a majority of the council) that had never served before on the council or on one of our committees — resulting in a lack of continuity in policy and project initiatives.

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Lewisville and what solution(s) would you propose? 

Our greatest challenge will continue to be growth and managing that growth to preserve our small-town character as much as possible.

What makes you most worthy to be elected the mayor of Lewisville? After 26 years serving our residents on the council with the last 10 as mayor, I’ll let the voters answer that question based on how well they think we’ve maintained Lewisville as a great place to live.

 

FOR COUNCIL

Name: Ven Challa, MD

Age: 77

Family: Wife, Surya, two children 

Occupation: Fully retired from employment with Wake Forest University School of Medicine (1978-2006). Was professor of pathology and head, section on neuropathology (brain pathology). Currently self-employed author.

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again?

Several people from Lewisville asked me to run for council to watch how property tax dollars are spent. The last time I ran for public office was the 2020 elections for N.C. Senate from the 32nd District.

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Lewisville and what solution(s) would you propose?

The problems facing Lewisville include a moribund, socialistic economy, unacceptably high unemployment levels, inflation, high gasoline prices for its residents and government and a widening gap between the low- and high-income earners — but all these problems are the result of federal policies. The town of Lewisville needs to keep its spending and taxes as low as possible so as not to hurt the local economy further.

What makes you a worthy candidate to be elected to the Lewisville Town Council? 

I don’t know how worthy the other candidates are in order to compare myself with them. I will be suitable to be a council member because of my age, education, experience and willingness to learn and work hard on policy issues. I am a first-generation immigrant and have seen a lot of the rest of the world, and my unique inputs may be useful to the other council members. I am fiscally conservative, which makes my allegiance to the overburdened middle-class taxpayer a main reason for people to elect me to their government.

 

Name: Ivan Huffman 

Age: 22

Family: Son of Ian and Crystal Blair Huffman of Lewisville 

Occupation: Director of Advancement — Open Door Ministries, High Point

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again?

As a sixth-generation resident of Lewisville, I have seen firsthand the beauty that my ancestors have built within this town. Our town continues to grow and to ensure that Lewisville is around for generations to come, it is time that those in my generation take an interest in our town — and one of my key reasons for me running for council for the first time. Local government is crucial to our society and ensuring that all voices are heard from all walks of life here in Lewisville is important to me.   

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Lewisville and what solution(s) would you propose?

Lewisville is indeed growing with a 6.1 percent population growth since 2010. Our job as a town is to provide all residents with the infrastructure capable of withstanding this growth. Lewisville has amazing plans in place to reinforce its infrastructure with projects such as the Williams Road Interchange Project and Great Wagon Road Project. I believe our biggest issue would arise if we do not follow through with these projects and improve traffic flow and overall infrastructure. My role as a council member will be to ensure these projects are carried out in the most cost effective and beneficial manners. 

What makes you the most worthy candidate to be elected to the Lewisville Town Council?

I can say proudly that I am a lifelong resident. I have been a firm supporter of the limited development of Conrad Road and other areas to ensure that opportunities for growth are present but that they occur in the proper areas. I am also a marketing and fundraising director of a nonprofit organization with the expertise and understanding of how to engage the community — and ensure that every dollar spent is used in the best interests of all residents. Most importantly, I love Lewisville. 

 

Name:  Melissa Hunt

Age: 44

Family: husband, three children, two dogs    

Occupation: Insurance agency owner 

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again?

I decided to run again for public office to continue the work I have been a part of since 2019. It’s my belief that to keep the historical small-town charm of Lewisville, you must focus on the areas of community, collaboration and consistency. And I will continue to do just that if I am re-elected. Check Hunt on the ballot.  

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Lewisville and what solution(s) would you propose?  

It’s my belief that prioritization is the greatest challenge we face in Lewisville. As a financially sound town, we are often faced with what comes first in our deliberations. I would propose that we take a deep dive into policies that are more than 10 years old, review the words and modify, if needed. I also suggest that we continue the work of revamping our boards/committees, collaborating with our small business community as we change our infrastructure, modify where needed our community programming at the Mary Alice Warren Community Center, discuss moving to staggered terms, continue to offer our younger generation the opportunity to learn about local government firsthand and engage our community in the way they want to be engaged. Keep listening, planning well and building community as our residents have suggested. 

What makes you the worthiest candidate to be elected to the Lewisville Town Council?

I am fully committed and engaged with our residents who take the time to approach me. My cellphone enjoys getting texts, and I enjoy responding as I am able throughout the day. I am accessible. I bring joy into local government with “Happy Thursdays,” I will remain consistent with my fiscal responsibilities, and I will advocate for the community through public recreation areas such as a dog park. I am worthy because I prioritize the small-town charm of Lewisville by focusing on the 3 C’s — Community, Collaboration and Consistency.  

 

Name: Monte Long

Age: 48

Family: Wife, Laura; daughters, Mercer, Lucy and Phoebe 

Occupation: Owner of Long Insurance Services (independent insurance agency)

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again?

I decided to run after a friend suggested it. I’ve resided in the town limits for 19 years and am excited for the potential opportunity of serving the residents of the community. 

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Lewisville and what solution(s) would you propose?

Our past town council has done a fantastic job addressing issues and resolving problems. My hope is to continue the goal of Lewisville’s Comprehensive Plan as it aligns with my views. I would like to see growth of small businesses, as we have many opportunities for expansion.

What makes you a worthy candidate to be elected to the Lewisville Town Council?

I would be honored to serve on the council. After serving on many boards, I understand the importance in being fair to all concerned. 

 

Name:  Julia Puckett 

Age: Undisclosed

Family: Married

Occupation: City of Winston-Salem, Human Relations/DEI Department 

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again?

I’ve realized that many public officials run for their own agenda rather than to serve those they represent. I thought about public office for a while and decided that it was time to step up and serve the town I have lived in and enjoyed for over 20 years. It is easy to talk about what should or could change but harder to be a part of the actual work of creating positive change. I see myself as a servant leader. I want to be part of helping our town grow to meet the needs of my fellow Lewisville residents, while keeping our wonderful Lewisville town environment.

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Lewisville and what solution(s) would you propose?  

Not an easy answer. In reading the last residential survey from 2022, several concerns were voiced and would be a focus: managed growth — to meet the needs and the vision of the residents of Lewisville while adhering to state requirements for a township; responsible stewardship — ensuring that contractors and businesses are responsible and ethical to the resident’s vision for Lewisville, so as not to have costly unintentional consequences;  safety — proactive research and careful consideration on housing, businesses, etc. that may be brought into the town; representation — working for the residents of Lewisville so their voices are heard and respected in the decisions affecting the town.

What makes you the most worthy candidate to be elected to the Lewisville Town Council?

I believe that all the candidates are worthy. Why I feel I am most worthy is due to my past work and the work I do with the city of Winston-Salem, which is service-oriented and ensures that all are treated in an equitable and inclusive manner. My goal would be the same for my fellow Lewisville residents. It would be my responsibility and my privilege to be a voice for my fellow Lewisville residents on the council.

 

Name:  Ken Sadler

Age: Undisclosed

Family: Wife, two adult sons

Occupation: Retired dentist — currently serving as interim executive director and CEO of the North Carolina Dental Society 

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again?

I was one of the charter members of the town council and participated in the effort to incorporate the town. I’ve had a long-standing interest in civic involvement and in working to help keep Lewisville the community that it has been.

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Lewisville and what solution(s) would you propose?

I don’t know that Lewisville has any major problems in front of it. The challenges relate to growth and zoning as is the case in a number of municipalities. The town strives to maintain its character, and that is an objective of mine as well.

What makes you the most worthy candidate to be elected to the Lewisville Town Council?

I have a long-standing commitment to the town and have participated in town government since its creation as a municipality in 1991. I continue to have the same level of interest and concern as I did at the beginning.

 

Name: Jane Welch

Age: 74

Family: Blended — husband; four children, 10 grandchildren 

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again?

I decided to run again because I have such a passion for our town. I simply did not know how I would replace my involvement with anything else that I felt as strongly about.

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Lewisville and what solution(s) would you propose?

I think the biggest problem the town has is “controlled growth” as the main objective. I think the solution is keeping our comprehensive plan up-to-date. The town reviews and updates it every five years, and we are in the process of undertaking a review now. 

What makes you the most worthy candidate to be elected to the Lewisville Town Council?

I certainly can’t speak to my fellow candidates on a scale of their worthiness, but I can say that I not only have a passion for serving the town, but I have the experience of having served seven terms. I am proud of our fiscal responsibilities and of our healthy fund balance. I have served during the inception of the Town Square and during the construction of the Mary Alice Warren Community Center. Also in recent years, I served during COVID and through the hiring of a new town manager. We are fortunate to have an excellent town manager and staff. They work as a team to successfully oversee the daily operations of the town. The various council members that I have had the privilege to serve with have made me very proud to call Lewisville home. I humbly ask for your support on Nov. 7. 

• Compiled by Jim Buice

 

BERMUDA RUN

Mike Brannon is the lone candidate for mayor on the Nov. 7 ballot in Bermuda Run while there are four candidates — Rod Guthrie, Rae Nelson, Jeff Tedder and Marty Wilson — running for two available council seats.

 

FOR MAYOR

Name: Mike Brannon

Age: 63

Family: Wife, Virginia “Gini”

Occupation: Retired VP of information technology

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again?

Mayor Rick Cross has decided to not seek another term. After serving these two years on council — and working closely with him on several active town initiatives — I want to keep these efforts moving forward for our town. I commit to continue his proactive approach in communicating with residents, partnering with county leaders, connecting with our regional agencies, and working with our state and federal representatives. Ultimately, our town is best served when we have an effective mayor and council who function as a team investing significant time and energy to work, engage, listen and serve as your elected representatives. 

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Bermuda Run and what solution(s) would you propose?

Growth. The past two years have seen a significant amount of new development and proposed development in and around our town. While our Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance have always contemplated growth, increased activity has become a concern to many residents — revealed through recent town surveys. Town leaders listened and committed to review and potentially revise Land Use and Zoning to help address some of these concerns — with several near-term proposed changes now being finalized. As your mayor, and with council support, I will continue to seek thoughtful, balanced growth for those who live here and wish to develop here. 

What makes you most worthy to be elected mayor of Bermuda Run?

When I ran for town council two years ago, I made a commitment to communicate and engage with residents, listen to concerns and ideas, and invest the time to be effective in that role. Over the past two years, I have fulfilled those commitments in serving as a member of your council. With this opportunity to serve as mayor, I believe my work on the council — coupled with my close partnership with Mayor Cross — has positioned me, our other town leaders and residents to build on our collective vision for this special place.

 

FOR COUNCIL

Name: Rod Guthrie

Age: 71

Family: Wife of 49 years, Diane; daughters, Mollie and Emilie

Occupation: Attorney, founding partner with Bennett Guthrie PLLC in Winston-Salem; practice focuses on civil litigation, corporate and insurance law, bankruptcy, and wills and estates.

Why did you decide to run for public office — first time or again?

First, as a resident of the town of Bermuda Run for over 16 years, I have a vested interest in seeing our community thrive while maintaining the quality of life we have enjoyed over that time.  Second, a number of friends and fellow residents noted my service on the town’s Planning Board for the past seven years and suggested that I continue my service on the council. Third, I am strongly supportive of our town’s Comprehensive Plan, as updated in the past year, and I am committed to seeing us follow through with the goals and objectives established in that plan.

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Bermuda Run and what solution(s) would you propose?

Our greatest challenge going forward is to manage our growth in a way that encourages responsible development while protecting the rural qualities around the town that makes this such an inviting place to live. While recognizing the rights of landowners to use their properties as they see fit, we must ensure that our zoning requirements are enforced, and adjusted as needed, to give current as well as future owners and investors clear guidance on how, where and when development can occur. We must be prepared to address certain challenges that come with population growth.

What makes you the most worthy candidate to be elected to the Bermuda Run Town Council?

First, as a member of the town’s Planning Board for the past seven years, I have firsthand knowledge of the work of the council, our zoning ordinances and the needs of the community. Second, I have been personally involved in developing our past two comprehensive plans, which serve to chart the course for the town into the future. Third, I know each of the current council members well and am confident that I can work with them to build on the accomplishments of the past as we look to the future. 

 

Name: Rae Nelson

Age: 67

Family: Husband, Karl Haigler; step-children: Rett Haigler, Rachel Anderson and Adam Haigler; eight grandchildren 

Occupation: Semi-retired after a 30-plus year career that includes leadership positions at the White House and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Had a management consulting firm, Haigler Enterprises, with husband for more than 20 years.

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again?

I moved to Bermuda Run in 1996 and believe this is a pivotal time of challenges and opportunities for our community. The decisions made today will impact residents for decades to come. Four years ago, I was in the audience at a candidate forum listening to Mayor Cross and other candidates. At that time, I was traveling for work and family and did not have the time to adequately serve the town. Now, being semi-retired, I have the time and passion to make serving on the council a personal and professional priority.

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Bermuda Run and what solution(s) would you propose?

Responsible development is on the minds and in the hearts of residents. Solutions include making it a priority to actively listen to all perspectives in a timely manner. The Comprehensive Plan provides the vision/strategy and the Zoning Ordinance defines guidelines. Not every application for development ends up in front of the council for a decision. That being said, there are opportunities for proactive communication and long-term planning. Mayor Cross and Mike Brannon are leading a first-ever Future Land Use initiative that, from what has been presented so far, will serve our town well.

What makes you the most worthy candidate to be elected to the Bermuda Run Town Council? 

The town of Bermuda Run is entering an important era and I am eager to serve to help shape our future. My experience includes working with federal/state/local governments, the business community, and other partners to find common ground and solutions. My experience also includes strategic planning and implementation, and leadership lessons from service at the White House and U.S. Chamber of Commerce (among other professional experiences). As a council member, my priorities will be representing our residents, responsible decision-making, and proactive listening and communication.

 

Name:  Jeff Tedder

Age: 64

Family: Wife, Lindsay; daughters, Hannah and Gracie; two grandchildren

Occupation:  Division vice president, Hood Container’s Display & Packaging Division, which includes 17 facilities across the U.S. 

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again?

I’ve been blessed to call Bermuda Run home for the last 42 years. Our town has experienced tremendous growth during that time, and for the most part, that growth has been thoughtful and well-informed. Like many of you, I’ve been discouraged and questioned recent decisions and developments by the Town Council. I’m not against development if that development does not detract from the quality of life of those already living in the area. I’m running for Town Council to ensure our interests — the interests of the residents — are considered and protected as we welcome more folks into our community.

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Bermuda Run and what solution(s) would you propose?

Uncontrolled rapid growth and high-density development are the biggest challenges facing Bermuda Run today. Land annexations to the town can be controversial so both fiscal and social impacts must be considered. Annexations will increase the tax base but, even in our small town, we need to control sprawl and look at the expense of expanding services. Any future or existing development in our town should be done thoughtfully and responsibly without jeopardizing the quality of life and standard of living we’ve grown to love here in Bermuda Run. I’ll accomplish this through transparent communication.

What makes you the most worthy candidate to be elected to the Bermuda Run Town Council?  

After spending the last 42 years living in the Bermuda Run Community and investing eight of those years in developing Bermuda Run Country Club, I am passionate about the lifestyle and community we have created.  My experience in managing a multimillion-dollar business segment and creating budgets and long-term vision plans will help create a path for our community going forward that all residents of Bermuda Run can participate in and help develop.  

 

Name:  Marty Wilson

Age:   65

Family: Wife, Dawn; children, Elise, Matthew

Occupation: Retired; Last position, managerial specialist, N.C. Rural Water Association

What made you decide to run for public office — first time or again?

I decided to seek public office because I love this community and I want to “give back.” My education and professional work experience has been in public management for local governments in North Carolina. Therefore, I believe that serving on the town council is my best opportunity to serve. 

What do you see as the biggest problem facing Bermuda Run and what solution(s) would you propose?

The biggest challenges facing the town are managing growth and providing reliable infrastructure. The council is tasked with controlling development that would increase traffic and negatively impact our quality of life. It is not as simple as passing a ban on certain types of development because legal, regulatory and fairness issues must be considered. The council must be able to find solutions that will control growth without depriving property owners and developers of their rights. My education and previous local government experience will be instrumental in providing solutions for these complicated problems. 

What makes you the most worthy candidate to be elected to the Bermuda Run Town Council?

My 40-plus years of experience working in local government along with my degree in public management has provided me the ability to understand how to make local government work for the citizens of Bermuda Run. 

• Compiled by Jim Buice and Mike Barnhardt, Davie Enterprise editor