Two Neelyville residents are seeking to become the city’s next mayor.
Incumbent Kevin Bynum is being challenged by Karen Prosser.
Each candidate was asked the same series of questions and their profiles appear in the order in which they are listed on the ballot.
Kevin Bynum
Bynum was elected four years ago and said he has made the city’s infrastructure a priority.
“I have been mayor for four years working on our infrastructure, water and sewer and roads,” Bynum said.
Bynum said his knowledge of the town is a major reason he should be re-elected.
“I have known the people of the town and know how the town operates,” Bynum said, “what it needs and how to do it. I am currently working on a sewer project that I just went out to bid.”
Bynum also hopes to continue his commitment to the city’s infrastructure.
“Our next project is going to be a paving grant,” Bynum said. “That work is starting now and we’re going to look into ... a water grant to fix meters (and) pipes.”
Karen Prosser
Prosser said she is running for mayor because she cares about Neelyville and its people, and she wants to lead the way to improve the city.
“I want to remove abandoned, dilapidated buildings, clean up litter, improve roads that badly need it, resolve sewer problems, address issues with abandoned pets, and make this a more walkable city, by adding sidewalks and bikeways along Hart Street (Highway 142),” Prosser said.
Prosser said her years of inspecting workplaces makes her qualified to lead Neelyville.
“I am the more qualified candidate because of my years of work experience in performing inspections of workplaces, then leading and working well with others to solve problems that have been found,” Prosser said. “I am good at researching and writing, which will help in preparing grant applications and finding other ways to move forward.”
Prosser said finding funds and manpower to make needed improvements will be key for the city in the near future.
“I plan to study our budget for ways to improve our spending, apply for grants, and seek donations if necessary,” Prosser said. “I also feel certain there will be plenty of volunteers in our community that will work together to make things happen, such as removing trash, debris and dilapidated buildings.”