Rocky Mount native and businessman Lige Daughtridge today announced plans to run for Rocky Mount City Council in Ward 5, to replace retiring Councilman Tom Rogers.
“Tom deserves our thanks as he has given his time and expertise for the betterment of Rocky Mount. I believe in citizen government and interested citizens stepping up to serve our community, and that is what I’m going to do”, said Daughtridge.
Daughtridge has been active in community affairs and is a frequent attendee and speaker at City Council meetings, often cited for his well-researched probing questions posed to the Council regarding projects and expenditures.
“I intend to focus on accountability and transparency in the expenditures and policies in our city governance”, added Daughtridge. “I welcome the increased level of participation and interest in local government shown by the citizens of Rocky Mount”.
When asked about his key areas of focus, Daughtridge replied, “When dealing with City business our elected and employed officials have to operate with the highest ethical standards and avoid the appearance of any conflict and self-interest”.
As for key policy areas, Daughtridge cited the importance of a well maintained and expanding infrastructure to enhance a strong local economy. The need to attract and retain high quality employees in all city government departments, with a special emphasis on emergency services and utilities. Daughtridge states he wants “to harness the excitement surrounding the Rocky Mount Mills and downtown revitalization to encourage private investment and job creation.”
Daughtridge has a long resume of business awards for small business and entrepreneurialism; board participation in several civic, educational and church organizations; and government board and civic involvement, including the City of Rocky Mount Planning Board, appointments by officials from both parties to the NC Rural Infrastructure Authority, the NC Rural Economic Development Center, and Thread Capital., a loan program targeting historically underutilized businesses.
Lige and his wife Annie have two children and attend First Presbyterian Church in downtown Rocky Mount.
BY Lindell John Kay
Rocky Mount Telegram
Staff Writer
