Extra! Extra! Meet the candidates for town council in Louisa and Mineral

Engage Louisa is a nonpartisan newsletter that keeps folks informed about Louisa County government. We believe our community is stronger and our government serves us better when we increase transparency, accessibility, and engagement.

---

Note to readers: A special edition of Engage Louisa

While Engage Louisa mostly focuses on Louisa County government, we’ve been trying to expand our coverage to include at least some updates on local government from the county’s two towns: the Town of Louisa and the Town of Mineral. 

In the last few weeks, several Town of Louisa residents reached out to us to express concern that they didn’t know anything about the candidates running for town council in the November 5 General Election.

To help inform voters, we put together a brief candidate questionnaire, which we emailed to each council candidate in both Louisa and Mineral. We’ve included the candidates’ responses in this special edition of Engage Louisa. In some instances, responses were lightly edited for clarity. 

We apologize that this information is too late for community members who voted early. And, we promise to use this as a learning experience as we work to improve Engage Louisa and fill gaps in local news coverage. 

Thank you for reading Engage Louisa. Be sure to check your inbox tomorrow (Sunday, Nov. 3) for our regular edition of this free, weekly newsletter.

And, if you haven’t already, be sure to vote!

Election Day is this Tuesday, November 5. Polls are open from 6 am to 7 pm.

Click here for sample ballots. Click here to find your polling place.

Questions about voting? Call the Louisa County Office of Elections at 540-967-3427 or visit the Virginia Department of Elections website.

---

Town council seats up for grabs in Louisa, Mineral

While high-stakes federal elections are the marquee items on this year’s ballot, some local voters get a chance to weigh in on contests closer to home.

Voters in the Town of Louisa will elect three members to their five-member town council while voters in the Town of Mineral will participate in a special election to fill two of six council seats.

Generally, town councils are tasked with setting a town’s tax rates, adopting its budget, making land use decisions, and enacting ordinances and town policies, among other duties.

Council members typically serve four-year terms, so candidates elected in Louisa will serve through 2028.

Candidates elected in Mineral, however, will only serve through 2026 because the seats are up as part of a special election to the fill the unexpired terms of council members who resigned earlier this year. 

Meet the candidates on the ballot in both towns. 

Four candidates vying for three seats on Louisa Town Council

Founded in 1873, the Town of Louisa is home to about 2,200 residents and 1,429 registered voters. 

While council meetings are often low-key affairs, the body has been embroiled in some controversy in the last couple years, mostly stemming from its approval of more than 450 new residential dwellings—mainly apartments and townhomes—on the town’s eastern edge. 

Those decisions drew strong opposition from neighbors, especially residents of the Tanyard subdivision, who’ve argued that the developments would overwhelm local infrastructure, including clogging traffic on surrounding streets, and exacerbate periodic flooding in and around the town.

The approvals also put the town at odds with some members of the Louisa County Board of Supervisors who are looking to slow residential growth in the face of rising demand for county services. 

The resignation of former Mayor Garland Nuckols in mid-September has also shook up town government. Nuckols, who served as mayor for a decade, has said that he stepped down, in part, because of the job’s impact on his health.

Council is expected to appoint an interim mayor in a special meeting this Wednesday (Nov. 6). 

Four candidates are vying for three seats on council on Tuesday: incumbents Jessi J. Lassiter and Sylvia L. Rigsby and newcomers Daniel R. Crawford and Roger W. Henry.

Daniel R. Crawford

Crawford, who has never served in town government, is making his second run for council. He previously ran in 2022 when two seats were on the ballot, finishing third in a four-candidate field. 

(Editor’s note: Crawford’s responses were transcribed from a telephone interview).

In a few sentences, tell voters a little bit about yourself like how long you’ve lived in the community, what your professional background is and why you decided to run for local office. 

My name is Daniel Crawford. I am originally from southwest Virginia, down next to Abingdon—30 miles west of Abingdon, a little town called Coeburn. [My wife and I] came up here in 2017, but [we] didn’t make it official until 2018. Our kids are still down there, and they are grown and married.

I am in the death care industry. I was the manager of a local funeral home here in town. That’s the reason I [moved here]. I’m still in the death care industry. I am a graduate of the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Of course, I went to the local high school.

The reason that I decided to run for council [is because] some citizens approached me to ask me to run again. I hadn’t planned on it, but some citizens came and asked me to run. They seemed to think that I have a business mind and make wise decisions. That’s why I am running for council. 

What do you see as the major challenges facing the town, and what specific steps would you recommend to address them? 

We are growing fast, and I would like to see our infrastructure get better to accommodate the citizens of the town. When I say infrastructure, I don’t mean water and sewer. I think they’ve got that pretty well taken care of. I’m speaking of more grocery stores, more things like that.

I am a big supporter of our police department. With new folks moving in, I feel that we are going to need more policemen. The county is doing all that they can do.

That’s some of the things that I see that we need to work on.

Over the last few years, council has approved more than 450 new housing units, including townhomes, apartments and single-family homes. How do you feel about significant residential growth in the town and what, if anything, does town government need to do to prepare for it? 

I think that as long as our town can support the growth and it’s good growth—I mean taxpaying growth—I think it’s a good thing. But, once again, you’ve got to see if the town can support it and the county [as well]. We are a small town, even though we are the county seat. As far as future growth, I think the town council needs to make wise decisions—well-informed, wise decisions.

Why should voters support you? 

I feel that I can represent the voters, and I want to do what is good for the citizens of the Town of Louisa, not for a contractor or anybody else. I want to do what is good for the citizens.

With the influx of folks moving in—of course, Amazon coming to the county—I think that, as a council, we need to put our heads together and work with the county in some way and make the county and the town more appealing to folks and give them options like where to shop and try to keep as much tax dollars as possible within the Town of Louisa. 

 Roger W. Henry

A newcomer to local politics, Henry is making his first run for town council.

In a few sentences, tell voters a little bit about yourself like how long you’ve lived in the community, what your professional background is and why you decided to run for local office. 

My family moved to Louisa County in late 1950.  I attended public schools here, then moved away in the mid 1970’s to pursue employment.  Over 32 years, I owned and operated three successful businesses (heating and air; electrical; real estate investment) before retiring in 2018.  My wife and I left the lake area in 2020 to move into our home in town.  Since then, I’ve attended many of the Town Council meetings and realize that many issues that concern the town are also some of the same issues that I encountered in my businesses.  I believe that as a Council member, this experience will be helpful when working on resolutions.

What do you see as the major challenges facing the town, and what specific steps would you recommend to address them? 

1. A continued update of the Town code is needed to meet the guidelines of today’s State codes to assure compliance.

2. The Town of Louisa partners with Louisa County for water and sewer, we rely on the Louisa County Water Authority for both.  My concern is that the initial contracts for service is outdated and should be revised to meet the future demands.

3. An Economic Development person for the Town is needed to focus on bringing new business to Town, such as a new grocery store and a 24 hour urgent care facility.

These are only a few issues that need attention.  There are many more issues that the Town must prepare for.  And I will focus on these needs and work hard to address any issues that arise.

Over the last few years, council has approved more than 450 new housing units, including townhomes, apartments and single-family homes. How do you feel about significant residential growth in the town and what, if anything, does town government need to do to prepare for it? 

With all the growth coming in the near future, we need to make sure this growth pays for itself.  The last thing we need is to increase our taxes to pay for future growth.  We need smart growth to allow us our continued small town feel.  One of the proposed developments that will be built by a local company, potentially means buying materials and hiring local residents.  This is an example of the smart growth needed for our Town.

Why should voters support you? 

I am retired with a business history that provides me with the experience needed to offer guidance through upcoming changes.  I have committed much time and energy to my community since moving here.  I will continue with this same focus as a member of the Town Council.

Please support me when you go vote.  I will listen to your concerns and work with you to keep our small town appearance and values.

Jessi J. Lassiter

First elected in a five-way battle for three council seats in 2016, Lassiter won re-election four years later, finishing second in a three-candidate field.

In 2017, her colleagues chose her as vice mayor. Following Nuckols’ resignation in September, she’s taken over mayoral duties, pending an appointment of an interim mayor at council’s November 6 meeting. 

While Lassiter is one of three residents to throw their hat in the ring for that position, she told Engage Louisa last week that she’d prefer to remain on council as opposed to serving as mayor.

In a few sentences, tell voters a little bit about yourself like how long you’ve lived in the community, what your professional background is and why you decided to run for local office. 

I am a nurse and have worked in Charlottesville at UVA for the last 13 years. I bought a home and moved to Louisa in 2015 after falling in love with the small-town charm, the cute main street and its small businesses. I started attending town council meetings shortly after I moved here to get connected and to learn about the town. I decided to run for council the next year and was elected.

What do you see as the major challenges facing the town, and what specific steps would you recommend to address them? 

Louisa, like many small towns, faces a range of challenges and we are lucky to have an amazing full time staff at the town that works tirelessly on these things day in and day out. These are some of the major issues along with specific steps to address them, most already underway:

1. Infrastructure Improvements:

   • Challenge: Aging infrastructure

   • Steps:

     • Conduct a thorough assessment of current infrastructure needs.

     • Prioritize projects based on safety and economic impact.

     • Explore state and federal funding options for infrastructure improvements.

2. Affordable Housing:

   • Challenge: Rising housing costs and limited availability of affordable options.

   • Steps:

     • Encourage mixed-use development to increase housing stock.

     • Work with developers to create affordable housing projects.

     • Consider zoning changes that allow for more diverse housing options.

3. Community Engagement:

   • Challenge: Limited citizen participation in local governance and initiatives.

   • Steps:

     • Use social media and local newsletters to keep residents informed and engaged.

     • Create volunteer opportunities that encourage community involvement.

Over the last few years, council has approved more than 450 new housing units, including townhomes, apartments and single-family homes. How do you feel about significant residential growth in the town and what, if anything, does town government need to do to prepare for it? 

Significant residential growth can bring both opportunities and challenges to a town like Louisa. Here’s my perspective on development and actions we can continue to take as town government:

Opportunities:

1. Economic Boost: New residents can stimulate local businesses and increase demand for services.

2. Community Revitalization: Increased housing can lead to improved infrastructure and community amenities.

3. Diverse Housing Options: A variety of housing types can attract different demographics, including families, young professionals, and retirees.

Challenges:

1. Infrastructure Strain: Rapid growth can overwhelm existing roads, utilities, and public services.

2. Community Character: Significant development may alter the town’s ‘small town feel’ and/or sense of community.

Actions:

1. Infrastructure Planning:

   • Assess and upgrade infrastructure (roads, water, sewer, etc.) to accommodate growth.

   • Create a phased development plan that aligns new housing projects with infrastructure improvements.

2. Zoning and Land Use Policies:

   • Review and potentially revise zoning laws to ensure balanced growth that reflects community needs.

   • Encourage mixed-use developments to promote walkability and reduce traffic.

3. Environmental Considerations:

   • Preserve green spaces and natural areas to maintain the town’s character and quality of life.

4. Public Services Assessment:

   • Evaluate the capacity of schools, healthcare, and emergency services to handle increased demand from new residents.

   • Collaborate with local agencies to ensure that services keep pace with growth.

By proactively addressing these considerations, Louisa can harness the benefits of residential growth while minimizing potential drawbacks, ultimately fostering a thriving and sustainable community.

Why should voters support you?

I love working together with others to tackle challenges and address opportunities for improvement before they become problems. Over my 8 years of working on the town council I’ve learned a lot and think I could continue to be a helpful member of the team.

Sylvia L. Rigsby

Rigsby made her debut in local politics four years ago when she claimed one of three council seats on the ballot, finishing third in a three-candidate field. 

In a few sentences, tell voters a little bit about yourself like how long you’ve lived in the community, what your professional background is and why you decided to run for local office. 

My name is Sylvia Rigsby and I am a Louisa County native.  I was raised on the family farm in Mineral near Wares Crossroads and have resided in the Town of Louisa for 19 years.  I am currently the Credit Administration Manager at Virginia National Bank as well as run a small cattle farm operation.  I have a background in both accounting and as a mechanical engineer specializing in HVAC systems and design. 

I have always been a large supporter of the Louisa Community having served as a member in various local non-profit and volunteer organizations over the years.  I first ran for council four years ago and am running for re-election this year in order to give back to my community and have the opportunity to make an impact on the direction and long-term goals of the town. 

What do you see as the major challenges facing the town, and what specific steps would you recommend to address them? 

I believe aging infrastructure, growth both in the town and surrounding county, and limited access and availability of resources due to the size of the town will all be challenges faced in the near future.  In order to navigate these issues, we need to be fiscally responsible by continuing to utilize available grants and funding opportunities when available to continuously upgrade infrastructure and make proactive improvements to town systems.  As growth continues, I believe we need to recognize and evaluate both the positive and negative impacts it can have on our community as well as any additional opportunities that it may afford to the residents and visitors to the town. 

Over the last few years, council has approved more than 450 new housing units, including townhomes, apartments and single-family homes. How do you feel about significant residential growth in the town and what, if anything, does town government need to do to prepare for it? 

I believe housing is an area of need for the town and surrounding county, and the approved rezoning for the proposed projects allows for a good mix in the type and affordability of housing to be offered.  While I do not believe in growth just for the sake of it, I do believe that both the Town and County of Louisa are growing and controlled growth can result in positive impacts to the community.  In order to make sure our resources can handle and sustain the anticipated growth, will need to work collaboratively with other agencies and surrounding government including VDOT, the County of Louisa, and the Louisa County Water Authority to develop both long and short-term goals and plans to accommodate growth and continue to maintain the small town charm Louisa currently enjoys. 

Why should voters support you? 

Having grown up and lived in Louisa and the surrounding county I understand the agricultural, rural, and historic roots of the Town. I also recognize the importance of change in order to keep up with the more advanced and fast paced world we live in today.  If re-elected to council, I will continue to work to improve the Town, its infrastructure, and to understand and convey the needs of its citizens to the local government. 

Check out some recent coverage of the Louisa Town Council

Nuckols resigns as Town of Louisa mayor -Engage Louisa

More apartments, townhomes coming to Town of Louisa -Engage Louisa

Louisa Town Hall focuses on water use -The Central Virginian (metered paywall)

Five candidates, including two write-ins, vying for two seats on Mineral Town Council

There’s been no shortage of political turmoil in the Town of Mineral in recent years as infighting among council members, a flurry of resignations from the body and turnover among town staff have made it difficult to tackle big issues. 

In the last six months alone, council has seen three members resign (two of those resignations triggered this November’s special election), fired the town attorney and censured the mayor and a fellow council member with the latter escorted out of the meeting by a Louisa County Sheriff’s Deputy. 

Meanwhile town officials are grappling with how to deal with aging infrastructure, struggling to navigate increasing interest from developers who see the town as ripe for residential growth and wrestling with outdated ordinances, some of which haven’t been tweaked in decades. 

Five candidates have stepped up from the ranks of the town’s 327 registered voters to run for two council seats. Three candidates—David E. Hempstead, Rebecca T. “Becky” McGehee and C. Blair Nipper—formally filed paperwork with the Virginia Department of Elections and their names appear on the ballot. The other two—Robert Spedden and JoAnna Von Arb—are running write-in campaigns.

Rebecca T. “Becky” McGehee

McGehee first won a seat on council in 2022, but resigned in June, triggering a special election to fill the remainder of her term, which runs through 2026.

McGehee said in a Facebook post earlier this week that her decision to resign was related to stress as her husband battled cancer. She said that her husband has since been deemed cancer-free, and she’s ready to return to public office. 

In a few sentences, tell voters a little bit about yourself like how long you’ve lived in the community, what your professional background is and why you decided to run for local office. 

My name is Rebecca (Becky) McGehee.  I am running for a seat on the Mineral Town Council. I have lived in Mineral for 47 years & in the county my whole life.  I worked in the school system for a few years as a substitute teacher & teacher assistant.  I also worked at Louisa Manufacturing in payroll until it closed.  After that, I worked at Virginia Community Bank (now Blue Ridge Bank) until I retired.  I have volunteered with the Mineral Volunteer Fire Co. as a ladies’ auxiliary.  My passion is Louisa Lions Football.  I am married to Roy (Snake) McGehee who served on Town Council for 22 years.

The Town of Mineral has faced a range of challenges in recent years, from problems with its infrastructure to infighting among council members. What do you see as the major challenges facing the town right now, and what specific steps would you recommend to address them?

I think one of the biggest problems with the Mineral Town Council is a lot of the council members seem to be self-serving.  There have been instances of vacant seats where a council member has gone out & picked someone that has never served or done anything for the town to have votes going their way.  This has happened twice this year & we are in trouble because of some of the picks.  Some members are self-serving & do not have the interest of the citizens [at heart], only how they want to run the town. 

Our water issues are a big problem.  We need to find solutions to these issues.

Name one thing you think the town is doing right or has improved on in the last few years.

When I was on council I did get water paid for Walton Park for our Fire Department.  Also the town fixed the sewer line for the Little League so that they could use their bathrooms.  I am a big advocate for Little League.

Why should voters support you? 

I love the Town of Mineral & I want to see us thrive.  The constant chaos has hurt the town tremendously.  There needs to be a lot of changes & I hope I can help be that change.  I would represent the citizens & will listen to them.  

C. Blair Nipper

Elected to council in 2022, Nipper resigned from her seat in March, citing health concerns. Her decision to step down triggered a special election this November. Like McGehee, she’s running to regain a spot on council.

In a few sentences, tell voters a little bit about yourself like how long you’ve lived in the community, what your professional background is and why you decided to run for local office. 

I am both honored and enthusiastic about the opportunity to represent you on the Mineral Town Council. I moved to Mineral in 2021, I have always enjoyed living in small towns growing up.  Over the years, my journey in the Public Sector (over 30 years) has shaped my understanding of our community's needs and strengthened my resolve to advocate for positive change.  On a personal note, I am a combat veteran who served in the U.S. Army (10 years), deeply honored to be a Purple Heart recipient from the Iraq War and to have served as a former City, Military and Federal Law Enforcement Officer.  I am a 100% disabled Veteran and still work in the federal government as an Administrative Officer, very similar to a Town Manager/Treasurer. These experiences have instilled in me a profound sense of duty, knowledge and a commitment to serving others in a Council position.  I am running because I want the Town of Mineral to be a place where everyone can thrive, feel safe, and call home.

The Town of Mineral has faced a range of challenges in recent years, from problems with its infrastructure to infighting among council members. What do you see as the major challenges facing the town right now, and what specific steps would you recommend to address them?

Issue #1: Accessibility and Inclusivity in Public Meetings

I believe that a community thrives when every voice is heard, and every individual feels valued.  My focus on promoting inclusivity and diverse representation in decision-making processes stems from a deep-seated belief in democracy's power to transform lives. I envision the Town of Mineral where Town Hall meetings are not just formalities, but vibrant forums for dialogue and collaboration. By creating spaces where residents can freely ask questions and express concerns, we can ensure that our governance reflects the true spirit of our community.

Issue #2: Neighborhood Infrastructure Improvements

Our town's infrastructure is the backbone of our daily lives, and maintaining it is essential for our collective well-being. I am dedicated to promoting equitable distribution of infrastructure investments. This means carefully prioritizing repairs and improvements to ensure that no neighborhood is left behind.  While we may not be able to address every issue overnight, I am committed to taking a strategic approach that focuses on urgent needs, preventing future challenges, and laying a strong foundation for sustainable growth. We are majorly over spending in the areas of personnel expenses, bonuses and a charming barn door for a shed, those funds should be going towards the failing water and sewer systems, which is the biggest main concern at the moment.  Those items get fixed and hopefully the town will be able to bring the water rates back down.

Issue #3: Economic Development

A thriving economy is the cornerstone of a vibrant community.  By attracting and retaining businesses and building homes, we can invigorate our local economy, create job opportunities, and generate revenue that can be reinvested in our town's essential services. I am passionate about forging partnerships with businesses that align with our values and contribute to the prosperity of Mineral Town. Together, we can tackle the pressing issues of our aging water and sewer systems, ensuring that our infrastructure supports our community's growth and resilience.

Name one thing you think the town is doing right or has improved on in the last few years.

Electronic sign, it's getting information out to the public, and updating the financial system, as it will help in future years in getting much needed grants, once the town has caught up with past years' audits. 

Why should voters support you? 

My professional journey has equipped me with the skills and insights necessary to navigate the complexities of governance.  I offer my expertise in financial management to guide the Council in making prudent decisions that reflect our community's priorities. With a strong foundation in financial principles, accounting practices, and budgeting concepts, I am prepared to contribute to the establishment and implementation of policies, procedures, and goals that drive progress. Leadership as a Civilian Police Officer in Missouri, Military Policer Officer in the military and Federal Police Officer in the federal government. 

David E. Hempstead

Hempstead was appointed to council on an interim basis in April to fill the seat vacated by Nipper in March.

Engage Louisa sent Hempstead the same questionnaire as the other council candidates. He chose not to directly respond to the questions and instead submitted a brief statement. 

Hempstead said that he initially pursued an appointment to council because he thought the 35 years he spent “manag[ing] multimillion dollar commercial construction” could be of use to the town. 

He said that, since joining the body last spring, he’s been “thoroughly disgusted,” expressing frustration with what he characterized as council’s disregard for constituents and the law. 

“I am running to keep my council seat so at least one member will try to stand up for the people of this town. I will not shut up or give up,” he said. 

JoAnna Von Arb (write-in candidate)

Von Arb launched a write-in campaign for council in mid-October after she was passed over for an interim appointment.

Von Arb had vied to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Olivia McCarthy in late August. Four days after resigning, McCarthy attempted to rescind her resignation, but was barred from doing so under a state law that prohibits elected officials from revoking a resignation after its effective date. 

At its October 15 meeting, council appointed McCarthy back to the seat, noting that she’d been “duly elected” two years earlier. She’ll serve until a special election next November.

In a few sentences, tell voters a little bit about yourself like how long you’ve lived in the community, what your professional background is and why you decided to run for local office. 

I’ve lived in Mineral since 2017, but I was raised in a small town in Massachusetts, so I know the value of close-knit communities. Professionally, I have over a decade of experience in the U.S. Army, where I learned the importance of teamwork and leadership, the Texas department of corrections, as well as years in business management and real estate. I decided to run for local office because I want to help bring collaboration back to the town council and ensure that the voices of Mineral’s residents are truly heard in every decision.

The Town of Mineral has faced a range of challenges in recent years, from problems with its infrastructure to infighting among council members. What do you see as the major challenges facing the town right now, and what specific steps would you recommend to address them? 

The Town of Mineral faces several key challenges that need immediate attention, including aging infrastructure, water supply issues, and a lack of cooperation among council members. One of the most pressing concerns is the town’s reliance on purchasing water from Louisa, especially with new homes being built. It’s critical that we become self-sufficient in our water supply to avoid unnecessary costs and vulnerability. Unfortunately, the town council has not allocated any funding to address this or other infrastructure needs, which is a significant oversight.

In addition to these challenges, many town residents have expressed frustration that when they ask questions of the town council, they often do not receive a response. This lack of transparency and communication has created a sense of disconnect between the council and the community. To address this, I would prioritize more open dialogue with residents, ensuring regular updates, holding open forums, and making it a priority that all resident inquiries are acknowledged and addressed.

We also need to focus on infrastructure improvements, starting with securing funds for upgrading the water system. I would advocate for a comprehensive plan to ensure the town can accommodate future growth responsibly without overburdening our current resources.

Finally, the infighting on the council has stalled meaningful progress. I would work to foster a more collaborative environment, focusing on shared goals and solutions that benefit the entire community. Together, we can move forward with practical solutions and restore trust in our local government.

Name one thing you think the town is doing right or has improved on in the last few years.

One area where the town has made strides is in inviting residents to town meetings, particularly to voice their concerns about the water situation. This was a positive step toward increasing community involvement and giving residents a platform to share their thoughts. I can only hope that now, after hearing the people express their displeasure about the 14-home park, the town council will be more in tune with the needs and concerns of its residents. It’s crucial that the council continues to listen to the community and incorporate their feedback into future decisions.

Why should voters support you? 

I believe that the town council needs a fresh face—someone who understands that without a plan for the next year, five years, or even ten years, we’re just spinning our wheels and not moving forward. While it's important to focus on making the town attractive, we also need to prioritize our infrastructure and growth to ensure we’re putting our best foot forward. I am committed to helping the town develop a vision that balances both immediate needs and long-term sustainability.

I appreciate the opportunity to share more about myself and my views with our local town members. I believe in integrity, respect, and accountability, and I’m eager to bring these values to the council. Together, we can create a stronger future for Mineral.

Robert Spedden (write-in candidate)

Spedden won a interim appointment to council in July to fill the seat vacated by McGehee a month earlier. He subsequently missed the filing deadline to get his name on the ballot for this year’s special election, an oversight he blamed on former town attorney Catherine Lea. 

In an effort to remain on council for at least another year, Spedden resigned from his seat and pursued an appointment to the seat vacated by McCarthy. After council appointed McCarthy back to the seat, Spedden opted to run as a write-in candidate this November.

In a few sentences, tell voters a little bit about yourself like how long you’ve lived in the community, what your professional background is and why you decided to run for local office. 

My name is Robert B. Spedden, Sr. and I have lived in Mineral since 2020. I moved here with my wife, Cathie from Omaha, Nebraska. I served 20.5 years in the United States Air Force. My service included working for high-ranking officers. Those assignments led to top secret and above clearances and to the Defense Intelligence Agency in Sofia, Bulgaria for (2) two-year assignments. The job entailed working closely with the assigned Ambassadors, State Department employees and various assigned military branches. My company was started part-time while I was at Offutt Air Force Base. After retirement, I concentrated on growing and building a lasting enterprise which lasted 40 years.

After attending a couple MTC meetings, which showed a lot of discord, infighting and general chaotic behavior, I decided to put in my letter of interest because my past experience could maybe bring back actual diplomacy, which does not happen overnight. I was seated on the Council for a short time (3 months), my seat was up for re-election, and I resigned to hopefully be accepted for a seat that was not up for re-election. I was not chosen. I STILL believe I am the new blood the Council needs to move forward. The old school of running things is not allowing the town to grow.

The Town of Mineral has faced a range of challenges in recent years, from problems with its infrastructure to infighting among council members. What do you see as the major challenges facing the town right now, and what specific steps would you recommend to address them?

I have seen Mineral grow in my neighborhood but have not understood some of the things that I have witnessed.

Mineral faces many challenges, there are street lighting issues for new builds and already established homes. There are codes violations for driveways that should be roads. We need to enforce the codes with the builders. Fine violators. If we need new codes then they need to be written. If we need a building inspector then hire by the hour or part-time.

Of course then there is a water issue, relief is in a new well. It is life, can we just keep paying higher and higher prices buying from the county? In September of 2020 my water bill was $25, it is now almost $70. No we cannot, fine tooth comb the budget, cut corners.

Abandon properties seem to be an issue. Hold the property owners to some kind of standard. Rent them out, renovate or tear them down. It’s a blight.

Affordable housing is just not a political ball we throw back and forth. It is real, it affects people and their families. I have heard from citizens of the county, not just Mineral, on this issue. THERE are no good places to start out owning and not renting. Rents are outrageous. Through research maybe there are viable options to solve this issue. Block grants from the government or a private entity. Look into Habitat for Humanity, it worked for Jimmy Carter. He dedicated his retirement years to building affordable housing.

Street repairs need to be addressed. Without proper streets it is hard to attract new homeowners. There needs to be an order in which this is done. Worst ones first and work from there within the budget that is set. There are also some sign issues, or lack thereof that need addressing.

Name one thing you think the town is doing right or has improved on in the last few years.

The Mineral Town staff are all relatively new to their jobs, they have the experience necessary. There was attrition due to various factors, this is the IMPROVEMENT the town needed. Now the citizens are faced with seating a council that can move forward without a POLICE presence being necessary to conduct business. The town is addressing billing issues, auditing and setting a new online page presence for Mineral.

Why should voters support you? 

In closing, I would like more time with the citizens to assist in solving of these problems. My years of experience in the military and being solely in charge of every estimate written for forty years, is experience you cannot buy.

If you have not voted early, please consider voting for me and together maybe improvements can be made.

Check out some recent coverage of the Mineral Town Council

Mineral Town Council censures Hempstead, appoints McCarthy -Engage Louisa

Public comment procedure disputed at recent Mineral Town Council meeting -The Central Virginian (metered paywall)

Mineral Council votes to censure mayor -The Central Virginian (metered paywall)

Mineral Council grapples over water -The Central Virginian (metered paywall)

---