Sandhills Sentinel spoke with those pursuing Moore County Board of Education seats in November.
All candidates were provided a list of questions that they responded to in written form. Questions for each candidate are identical, and the candidates’ submitted answers have not been altered in any way. The order of candidates reflects the order they will appear on the ballot.
John Weaver
How long have you lived in Moore County?
38 years
What is your educational background?
Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering
Have you ever served in an elected office?
Yes, Incumbent on the Moore County Board of Education.
For incumbents- What would you have done differently if you had the chance?
Priority needs identified in 2020-21 budget for Moore County Schools were supported by specific facts and had overwhelming support in public comments before the Moore County School Board and the Moore County Commissioners. Based on this, I was optimistic that the top priorities would be funded, which unfortunately they were not. If I had the chance to approach this differently, I would have been more outspoken and pushed harder in trying to gain support from the commissioners for the needed funding.
What unique qualities will you bring to the office?
I bring 44 years of experience with Duke Energy in long range planning and budgeting for infrastructure expansion. Half of my career was spent in management and supervision providing leadership to professional, administrative and craft employees, managing operating budgets, assessing performance and leading daily operations to achieve specific goals and drive results. I’m a graduate of the Moore County Leadership Institute. I’ve served appointments on the Town of Southern Pines Planning Board and the Moore County Hazardous Materials Planning Committee. In the past, I have been active in civic organization such as Kiwanis and the Optimist Club, taking on leadership roles and serving on their Board of Directors. Both these organizations focus on supporting and developing youth. Additionally, I served on the Board of Directors for Fellowship Preschool. I’ve directly supported charitable efforts in the community, having served on the Moore County United Way Board for a number of years and participated in fund raising efforts.
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
I am a strong supporter of our public school system and an advocate for all Moore County students, educators and staff. I believe my training and experience over my career and past involvement in civic, charitable and community service, coupled with my tenure on the Moore County Board of Education, brings diversity to the Board and will allow me to continue to add value in moving Moore County Schools forward to ensure each student receives a safe, quality education and enables them to achieve their full potential and prepare them for success in life.
Philip Holmes
How long have you lived in Moore County?
I have lived in Moore County for almost 10 years now.
What is your educational background?
I have a degree in Criminal Justice, while in law enforcement I obtained several certifications from diverse areas in the field. I also graduated from funeral education and am currently a licensed funeral director as well as a licensed insurance producer.
Have you ever served in an elected office?
I have never been elected to office.
For challenger of an incumbent- What is one thing your opponent did while in office that you would have done differently?
My opponent has neglected to stand alone and ask his difficult questions regarding any subject matter as well as rubber-stamping what other board members recommend as well as the superintendent. I for one have a different aspect and will do the complete opposite and will not be led by what other board members decide.
What unique qualities will you bring to the office?
Having a background in law enforcement, I have learned assertiveness while at the same time being understanding. Empathy is part of my job now as a funeral director. I listen to people and what their concerns are regarding the subject matter. Another quality I can bring to the table is that I weigh out the pros and cons and provide my own judgment and not rubber stamping.
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
As I mentioned previously, I believe in listening to the public and taking into consideration their concerns and opinions. I believe in being transparent and explaining the decision I have made to those who are in opposition. We need to listen to the public. The public deserves it.
Early voting is from Oct. 15- 31. The election is November 3.
You can find more information on the Moore County Board of Elections website.
Contributed photos: L,R; John Weaver and Philip Holmes.
Article by Sandhills Sentinel Journalism Intern Stephanie M. Sellers.
