Incumbent Roanoke Rapids Mayor Emery Doughtie is running for re-election and faces challenges from Ephraim Brodsky and Jerry McDaniel.

The following are Doughtie’s answers to questions submitted by rrspin.com:

Occupation: Retired, self-employed from Doughtie Tire Co. Also, retired from Doughtie Storage Co. and formerly employed as an AAMS Financial Representative with Edward Jones Investments.

Civic organizations, church organizations, board memberships, or volunteer organizations you belong to: Currently serving my fourth term as mayor; member of Halifax Horizons and Halifax County Intergovernmental Association. Member of East Tenth Street Christian Church; Member of Men’s Fellowship Group at East Tenth Street Christian Church.

Why are you seeking the office or why are you seeking re-election?

I am seeking re-election to move forward with the projects that have been on the agenda for years but have not yet been completed. Such priorities as extinguishing the theatre debt.  During my tenure the debt has been paid down by approximately $20 million. Several years ago, with much effort, the loan interest rate was modified and reduced from over 5 percent to about 2 ½ percent. Also, it went from a variable rate to a fixed rate loan, saving thousands of dollars.

I want to see the infrastructure improved by a significant level. Streets and alleys are in disrepair in some areas. Sidewalks and curbing need attention. Crime has also gotten a grip on our community. I would encourage the City Council to pass a budget with an increase in ways to lower illegal activity. 

Do you have any liens, foreclosures, or unpaid taxes?

No, not as far as I know.

Do you have any actual conflicts of interest or perceived conflicts of interest that could hamper your objective judgment on decisions that impact the city?

No, I do not have any conflicts of interest.

What are the biggest issues affecting the city and how would you address them?

Crime, infrastructure, loss of population and blighted structures. 

Fully staff the Police Department. Work with courts on ways to discourage illegal activities. Address the financial situation with the possibility of some type of prepared food tax. May also consider some grant opportunities should they fit our needs.

The council just recently approved the 2030 strategic plan. What are your thoughts on how you would carry out its objectives?

The plan is very intense and widespread. I believe it is best to decide on the most important issues and spend effort on them. Re-evaluate in a year or so.

Why are you qualified to be mayor or continue to be the mayor of Roanoke Rapids?

I believe my relationship with most of the citizens is positive. I get more positive comments than negative. People are appreciative when they know you have a vested interest in their city. They are thankful when you take their phone calls or visit their homes to discuss their dilemma. 

Living in Roanoke Rapids all my life has been a great benefit in addressing issues that arise from time to time. I served on the Roanoke Rapids Graded School District board for over 15 years. Three years as a member of the Roanoke Rapids Sanitary District. Most all positions in my church affiliation from Finance Chair to Sunday School teacher to Board Chair. Also, by owning and operating several businesses I have dealt with finance, personnel and many other difficulties.

What would you do to attract industry and business to the city? What kind of businesses and industries should the city try to recruit?

I believe that Halifax Community College can play a large part in keeping people here and bringing people to the Roanoke Rapids area. There are many areas of service jobs that pay well. The individuals filling these positions are nearing retirement. Opportunities abound. Also, I feel the city should focus on the I-95 corridor and the Weldon Mills exit as it has great potential to be an economic explosion!

Many local politicians are reluctant to support a tax increase because of its potential impact on taxpayers. First, would you support a tax increase to fund necessary improvements to city infrastructure? Why or why not? Secondly, if your answer is no, what are your alternate solutions to a tax increase and how would you go about soliciting support for your initiatives?

I believe that the possibility of a bond referendum should be considered so all voters could have a voice in the decision. A sales tax could also be considered so all consumers would be contributing to city funds.

The Main Street program is now a city department. What do you want to see accomplished under this agreement?

I believe the Main Street idea needs to focus on all areas of business in the city. Revenue will come from I-95 traffic in big numbers.

The Premier Boulevard extension is now open. What do you see as its potential? How would you like to see it developed?

First, there needs to be the installation of remaining infrastructure, water, sewer, WIFI, etc. The Roanoke Rapids Toyota dealership has set a nice standard.

The demolition of dilapidated structures in the city has been a constant issue and is discussed at times during council meetings. How would you go about securing funds to see this accomplished?

It has always been hard to obtain funding for demolition. At some point some things need to be removed and start over with new structures. I believe market price apartments and condos would bring more people who will be taxpayers to our city. I will continue to address the General Assembly to seek any funds that may be available for large-scale and small projects as well.

Would you do anything to win at all cost, including buying a web domain with your opponent’s name only to see it being a website with your own campaign information? 

No.

Please provide a summation on what the city government in Roanoke Rapids would be like under your leadership and what voters who elected you can expect.

As mayor for 16 years, most citizens probably have an opinion of me. I have stated to many people over the years that they are welcome to approach me in whatever way best for them to do so. At the café at 5:30 a.m., at Sunday School at 10:00 a.m., about town most any day, telephone or text. I try to be available to all.

One of my greatest issues is that in the Roanoke Rapids City Council form of government is that the mayor does not vote unless a tie occurs. That being said, we have five members at most meetings where the motions are made and voted on.  All the mayor does is preside over the agenda. Being handicapped this way is discouraging when my thoughts may be different from others on Council. I encourage those with questions to reach out to Council members if they want to get information before a meeting takes place. 

I hope that I can improve on the issues that I have stated as being high priority to me. I will listen and be happy to move on ideas from others as best I can. 

I have enjoyed serving and hope I am given the honor of continuing to be your mayor.