Reid Scott

Political platform statement

Full name: Gaylon Reid Scott

Age: 73

Education: 

Glen Alpine High School / GED at CVCC - 1969

Military service: None

Employment:

Retired - 16 yrs. Construction

20 years self employed at Mountain Harbour Marina as owner/operator

How long have you lived in the town in which you desire to serve? 

Born & raised

Do you own your home?  Yes

If so, how long have you lived at that address?

20 yrs / I have owned house since 1973

Why are you seeking election? 

Our town government is out of touch with citizens. Our taxes were raised 32%, no body in town got that kind of raise. 

Glen Alpine is run like a social club that looks after themselves before town citizens. After complaining several times about police parking in a handicap parking spot, the parking spot was moved 80 ft away. 

The excuse I was given was that the location was dangerous, but the spot had been there since city hall was built with no incidents. Just an excuse like anything you ask about.  

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

Help make town accountable for daily operations. In years past we have had tennis courts donated to town for recreation, only to be sold, with no recognition to the donor. Bandstand and old firetruck donated for recreation, the firetruck was sold, with no recognition to that donor either. 

If elected, how will you address recent property revaluations and the subsequent increase in the actual dollar amount citizens are paying in property taxes? (100 words or less)

Taxes should not have been raised at all. Everybodies cost of living has gone crazy, rent, food, fuel, and everything else. What are people supposed to do?  Things are tight everywhere. Governments need to tighten their belts too.

The town has two open positions at the Police Department. What would you do to recruit quality candidates to fill your open positions? (200 words or less)

Small towns all over the country are having trouble recruiting police. Glen Alpine is 2 square miles. How many police do we need? We should explore contracting the Sheriff Dept. for coverage.

Many of the stores along Linville Street have closed permanently. What would you do to encourage commercial investment and revitalization in the downtown historic area?

Organize regular events to help more people downtown. We have a donated bandstand that could be used to promote young musicians. Check with schools to help promote youth bands, music nights.

If elected as a public servant, what legacy do you hope to achieve during your tenure in office? 

Better organize everyday operations. Regularly talk to citizens about their concerns. The citizens deserve better government. A lot of citizens have retired with very little retirement income, our governments at all levels need to look after them.

Any additional comments or remarks: None