At first, we were excited to see nine candidates running [for Weaverville Town Council]. But what became obvious is that the best candidates may not get elected because we have no primary here. So with this election, more than any in recent history, it is important for citizens to do their homework. We need to know the candidates and their platform to find those who suitably fit with our vision of the future of Weaverville. It’s important for us not to vote on heresay or [for] a “one-issue” candidate.
Weaverville is experiencing growth and all the challenges that come with it. There are three seats open on Town Council. With smart votes, we’ll have leaders who do thorough research and understand the needs of a small town and its small businesses. Most who live in Weaverville [do so] because of its small-town atmosphere and would like to see that maintained. Many also, we believe, realize that growth is inevitable, but that growth can be thoughtful and well-planned.
We attended the candidate forum last Thursday … [and applaud] all of the candidates for participating. Most did a great job on answering tough questions. Of the nine, two candidates were notable [for] having done their homework and understanding the impact of unplanned growth versus planned, proactive growth. They are Mel Kelly and Walt Curry.
When issues arise, Mel Kelly is ready and willing to roll up her sleeves and work diligently. Being intelligent and educated, Mel is ready to ask the hard questions and do the work to find various options/solutions. Listening and incorporating the opinions others through citizen involvement is also one of Mel’s strengths.
At the forum, Walt Curry exuded warmth and humor while displaying the same depth of knowledge of the issues that Mel Kelly shares.
We hope for a good voter turnout on Nov. 6, 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., so that the best candidates are elected. (According to the Board of Elections, although there are four districts, there are only three voting places: Those in the Weaverville-proper district vote at Town Hall; those in Woodland Hills vote at the Woodland Hills Baptist Church; those out on Reems Creek vote at the Reems Creek Fire Department.)
— Jody Ochs and Mimi Schleicher
Weaverville
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