Roanoke Rapids Planning and Development Director Kristyn Anderson completed the Leading for Results course as a Civic Fellow at the UNC School of Government in Chapel Hill.
City Manager Kelly Traynham made the announcement during her report at Tuesday’s city council meeting.
“Kristyn is remarkable,” Traynham said following the meeting. “I used to tell her for a long time that I wished more people had her skills and tenacity to learn a new skill and then as soon as they master that, they’re ready to learn the next skill. That’s one of the qualities that she carries — that has led to her success because she’s accomplishing one thing and moving on to the next. She’s not skipping any steps and she’s doing it with guidance and her own determination.”
Traynham told the council that fellows were selected through a competitive process and Anderson was one of more than 150 applicants from across the state. She was also among 24 fellows identified as critical leaders in their local governments. “The fellows program focuses on personal and organizational leadership. Participants were introduced to models of leadership as well as management and leadership tools and strategies.”
Anderson said, “It means a lot to me because I feel like I am going to be a better leader for my staff and a better visionary for the community.”
She believes the lessons learned will help her to promote growth in the community and work better with the public. “I feel like it’s really changed me as an individual. I even use some of these tactics at home with my children.”
Anderson credits Traynham with hiring her initially as an administrative support assistant and then guiding her through the steps that led her to the planning director position. “She put a lot of faith in me so I feel like I have a lot to prove to her — to prove I can do it. I just want to do good for my community and give back.”
In other matters, Traynham reported the following:
Certificates of occupancy have been issued for the Stateside Landing Family Apartments on Highway 158.
The planning staff is completing a minimum housing report for the Turtleback House located at 100 Hamilton Street. Built in 1895 according to tax department records, the house is currently dilapidated. It is one of the oldest — if not the oldest — houses in Roanoke Rapids. The report will be presented in January for consideration of a demolition ordinance.
Site work for a new 7-Eleven will begin with the demolition of the former Carolina BBQ at the intersection of Julian R. Allsbrook Highway and Old Farm Road.
