Great question! Since mayor and other town positions aren’t partisan (Republican or Democrat), state code lets elected municipal officials and teachers run for state legislature. In fact, there are several town officials and teachers now serving. In fact, most of the state senators and delegates have second jobs (lawyers, business folks, etc.)
Being a mayor and your delegate would involve balancing two similar positions with different schedules. I’ve done this in my previous jobs of teaching in Virginia, where I commuted for more than years. During that time, I also operated the Star Mercantile restaurant and store and the Wishy Wash laundromat, while serving as mayor of Wardensville.
Now that I’m retired from teaching and don’t run the restaurant any longer, I think I have plenty of time to serve as your delegate in Charleston. I already travel frequently to the state capital in my role as mayor. And the state legislature meets for only 60 days each year, plus short interim sessions in between. The job of mayor of Wardensville also isn’t designed as a full-time job. And while being mayor takes up a lot of my time, we have a great team of staff and Council members who join me to focus on Wardensville’s needs.
I think that my prior experience as a teacher and business owner and my current job as mayor works in favor of residents of Hardy and Pendleton Counties. I’ve already made friends among the players in the state government, our funding agencies and other key support organizations. I know what it’s like to drive the roads and meet people, and will be able to bring our concerns to the Legislature on Day One.
It all comes down to planning and being able to maximize one’s time. I’m good at both, and I think do a great job for you if you send me to Charleston. Thanks!
