Why did you decide to seek public office?

Blakley: We enjoy a great quality of life in Davie County, and it is my goal to make sure future generations have the same opportunities we have now. This can never be taken for granted, and I believe commissioners must be proactive in addressing our needs rather than waiting to respond when a problem arises.

Everyone has some responsibility for making the community a better place, and I want to do my part by serving as a Commissioner.

My experience as a small business owner will be beneficial in making sure county government is accountable to all citizens, while planning responsibly for the future.

Give approximate percentages – and reasons why – of where the county budget should be spent, including, but not limited to, law enforcement, schools, human resources?

Blakley: The role of the County Commissioners is to work with the County Manager and county departments to develop a budget that meets the needs of citizens while being good stewards of your tax dollars. It is imperative that commissioners listen to the needs of the county departments, and appropriately fund them, so they can effectively serve the people of Davie County. There is likely room to reduce unnecessary or redundant spending without harming the provision of essential services. It is important to remember that the money we appropriate is not ours, but belongs to the citizens. I will always remember my obligation to spend your money wisely.

Is Davie County growing too quickly, too slowly, or about right?

The state of NC projects Davie County to grow at a rate of 7.4% from 2010-2020. That is less than the overall growth rate for the entire state. However, the state expects Davie County’s growth from 2020-2030 to be at 11.7%. The Commissioners elected in the next few years will have to make major decisions dealing with that growth. We need to make sure we have a balanced growth plan that addresses the needs of all of Davie County and provide returns on our investments. Our future growth will impact everything from schools, roads, water and sewer, to fire and EMS, public safety, and social services. We must have leaders in place that understand our future needs and address the problems now and not wait until it’s too late.

Other Issues

Blakley: My wife and I are lifelong Davie County residents, products of Davie County Schools and I have 3 wonderful children enrolled in our school system. I am fully vested in the future of Davie County through my family roots, my community activities, my county wide business efforts and my dedication to helping people. It would indeed be an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of Davie County as a County Commissioner. If elected, I will represent the county as a whole and make decisions that positively impact everyone.