Rick McClurd — Valdese ward 3 council member

Full name

William Richard “Rick” McClurd

Age

81

Education

High school, CVCC computer classes for programming, Siemens phone switch course, IBM computer repair certified class. Seven years of constant training as a volunteer at the Triple Community Fire Department.

Current employer and job title

A & M Sound Systems owner: Selling, installing home theater, audio and video distributed systems. Visiting customers, hearing their desires for their location, and designing a system that meets their needs.

How long have you lived in the town/district/area you want to serve?

81 years.

Do you own your home?

Yes.

How long have you lived at your current address?

30 years.

Why are you seeking election?

I would like to use my 22 years of business experience in making solid decisions for the town. I have been on the Burke County Planning Board for seven years, and the Burke County Board of Adjustment for six years. I was one of the founding members of the VEDIC loan program and was Chairman for five years starting in 2009. We have made 207 loans and created 1,098 jobs, 838 in Burke County. The loan program is one of the three listed by North Carolina state to contact for a small business loan. I also volunteered at the Triple Community Fire Department for seven years. Data processing manager for Image Furniture in Conover. All of my private experience plus working with local and state governments should make me a good candidate for the town council.

If elected, what will be the primary focus of your first six months in office?

With my vast experience in all kinds of jobs, I can make good decisions for the town and work to keep the taxes low for our citizens.

If elected, what is the legacy you hope to achieve during your tenure in office?

I would hope that the people of Valdese would believe I served them well.

What are the three most pressing issues facing your community and how do you plan to address them?

1. Fire and police building established.

2. Establish a plan to replace the water and sewer lines.

3. Work toward a plan to keep taxes affordable for all.

Any additional comments?

Two out of three of my children live in Valdese and I live across the street from the house I was born and raised in. Valdese is my home, and it will be an honor to be selected as the next Councilman for Ward 3.