Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Correction: This story originally appeared with an omission of the full answer to Question 1 by candidate Martha Sue Hall. The answer is now as it was submitted.

Editor’s Note: For coverage of the election, The Stanly News & Press sent questions to each group of candidates. We limited their responses to 200 words per answer. Answers appear as is, with the exception of editing for grammatical/spelling errors or length. This allows potential voters to see the candidates through their own words and gives equal opportunity for the candidates to respond. We gave candidates two weeks to email their answers back.
In the at-large contest for Albemarle City Council, Benton Dry, Duke Furr, Bob Gruver and Martha Sue Hall are running, with Dry, Furr and Hall responding with answers. Mayor Ronnie Michael, District 1 candidate Dexter Townsend and District 3 candidate Bill Aldridge, all running unopposed, also provided answers.

1. Tell us a little about your background?

Benton Dry: I’m Benton Dry, born and raised in the City of Albemarle. I’m blessed to be co-owner of my family’s small business, Dun-Rite Cleaners, which has served Albemarle for over 100 years. I believe in quality hard work. I still personally go out every day to clean carpets, floors, and furniture for our community. It’s one way I get to connect with the people of the community I serve.
Before joining the family business, I worked in sales and management with the Gillette Company and Black & Decker. My business background gave me the skills to address our city’s needs, especially when it comes managing money and planning for the future.
My passion for service runs deep. I love our country and was honored to serve in the U.S. Army Reserve 227 Transportation Company. I’ve held leadership roles in organizations such as the East Albemarle PTA and Optimist Club. I also served as President of the booster club to support sports at Albemarle High School. I was founding member of the Fabulous 40. Go Bulldogs!
My wife Cindy and I have four wonderful children and six grandchildren.
It has been my honor to serve everyone in our community as a member of Albemarle City Council for a total of nine years.

Duke Furr: I’m native to Albemarle from Great Great Grandfather to present. My wife and I have 2 children and 4 grand children. I’m retired from IBM with almost 40 years service. I have never left Albemarle, even though I own land in the county. I have never met a stranger and will talk with anyone. Once you have met me, you will always know who I am. I like to make people laugh and smile. I’m very conservative and strong believer in our Bill of rights which gives us our guaranteed “Civil Liberties.”
I have a BA degree from UNCC. I like history and different religions. If you want to discuss any issues, I will sit down with you and we will discuss as long as you want. I will never brush you off and will listen to what you have to say.

Martha Sue Hall: I am a lifelong resident of Stanly County having lived in Albemarle since 1981 I am married to Dan Samples, Retired Lt Colonel USAF, and retired Airline Captain. Together we have five married adult children and six grandchildren.

I retired in 2014 from the Administrative Office of the Courts after 30 years of service. While employed, I implemented the Guardian ad Litem Program (Child Advocacy Program); started the Victim/Witness Program with the District Attorney’s Office; piloted and implemented a Family Court model and a DWI Treatment Court. I have served on the North Carolina Child Fatality Task Force since 2008. I currently Co-Chair the Unintentional Death Sub Committee of the Task Force. I believe in keeping our children safe.
I have been on Albemarle City Council since 2003. I have represented Albemarle on the Rocky River Rural Transportation Planning Organization; Centralina Council of Government and am currently the First Vice President of the North Carolina League of Municipalities.
Albemarle deserves a presence at local, regional, and state levels. I am a member of First Presbyterian Church; a roving church organist; a volunteer at our YMCA teaching Second Grade Learn to Swim and regularly volunteer at nursing homes playing for hymn sings.

Ronnie Michael: My name is Ronnie Michael, and I have the honor of currently serving you as your Mayor. Let me first say, I am asking for your vote. While I may be unopposed in this election, I want everyone to know I value your vote and ask that you vote for me in this election.
I have been very fortunate to be involved with the City of Albemarle my entire career.
After serving the citizens as a police officer and retiring as Police Chief, the citizens elected me first to City Council and then Mayor in 2013. My family are lifelong residents of this

community and been involved in many different groups and organizations. I am a member of First Presbyterian Church where I serve as a ruling elder. I am married with two children and three grandchildren. Involvement in the community is very important for me to be aware of the needs of our community and to support others in performing their missions.

Dexter Townsend:
A. Married for 31 Years to Tina S. Townsend.
B. Employed by Preformed Line Products (30 years).
C. Proud parent of one daughter, Lyric D. Townsend.
D. Currently serve as District 1 representative on city council.
E. Active in numerous community based organizations.

Bill Aldridge: Albemarle City Council District 3 since 2014.
I was born on 12/14/1973 in Albemarle and have proudly lived here my entire life. I am the son of the late Sherrill Aldridge and Margaret Burleson Aldridge of Albemarle. I am married to Michele Deeter Aldridge and we have 4 children and 3 grandchildren. Together Michele and I operate 3 small businesses in downtown Albemarle, Deeter Real Estate, Blended Café, and Sweet Repeats Consignments.
I graduated from Albemarle High School in 1992. I then attended both Pfeiffer University and Stanly Community College, earning a degree in Criminal Justice.
I have been a sworn law enforcement officer for 27 years, currently serving with the Stanly County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy (Reserve). For the last 26 years I have also been employed with the Hendrick Automotive Group based in

Charlotte where I currently serve as a Regional Training Director covering the Carolinas region.
We are active members at Prospect Baptist Church here in Albemarle.
I currently serve on the financial services board and Board of Directors at Tillery Compassionate Care of the Uwharries.
I am a past member of the Albemarle Rotary Club, City of Albemarle Planning and Zoning board, United Way of Stanly County, Fraternal Order of Police, and I am currently a proud member of the National Rifle Association.
I enjoy running, traveling and spending time with my family at the beach.

2. For newcomers: What made you decide to get involved in your community and run for Albemarle City Council? For incumbent, what has the council accomplished since you’ve been in office and why do you think voters should re- elect you?

Dry: Since I began serving on City Council, I’ve worked on projects to make a transformational difference in our community now and for future generations. I’m proud of my votes to create jobs and support families, with the new Albemarle Business Center as a prime example. Our community will have the opportunity to find high-quality careers in advanced manufacturing and technology there.
I’ve consistently voted to improve community safety. We successfully built a new police station headquarters and purchased a top-of-the-line fire truck without placing an added financial burden on our residents through bonds. Additionally, I’ve ensured that everyone in our police and fire departments has new state-of-the-art radios and equipment.
I also voted to bring Pfeiffer University’s Health Science Center to downtown. Since then, we’ve witnessed the revitalization of our downtown, with new businesses, restaurants, and places to live. Old storefronts and historic buildings, like the Albemarle Hotel and Lowder Hardware Building, now have new life.
These votes show that I listen to everyone and take action to support our community’s needs. I humbly ask voters to allow me to continue working for them and ensure Albemarle’s continued progress.

Furr: I’m one of few people to run for City Council. I do not understood why we don’t have young citizens running more often. I’m running for a few projects I would like to see happen.
Just like everybody has a better plan or I would have done it this way. I have signed up and ready to give you my plan. I want to reduce taxes, improve our streets and increase our fire and police dept. Our Property taxes and water/sewer rates compared to the surrounding cities like Concord and Salisbury per population, do not line-up with our population of 16K.
If we want industries to come, our ISO fire rating needs to be 1 not 3. Insurance fire rating is key to attract new industries and lower homeowners insurance yearly cost. For example, if your home is estimated at 400k or less 5 to 15 dollar savings and 450K greater could be high as 150.00 per year savings. For years the City has tried to attract new business and failed. Our surrounding cities like Concord rated 1 and Salisbury rated 2 were key factors for their prosperous growth.

Hall: During my tenure of service on Council we have had a great deal of economic growth and development. In 2000, State studies indicated that the counties surrounding Mecklenburg would double in population by 2040. This growth has made its way to our county whether “we like it or not.” We have had to welcome the growth. The council has continued to upgrade our infrastructure systems.
The City has approved a Commercial Code to deal with non-residential buildings that are not in decent shape and need work. Albemarle City Council and Stanly County Commissioners brought Pfeiffer University Center for Health Sciences to our downtown where we now have students living, eating and walking.
We have increased our paving allotment, completed a pay study to show our employees they are our greatest asset and are implementing the pay study.
We brought Food Truck Friday to City Lake Park; We entered a Private/Public Partnership to bring Treetop Challenge and the Wampus Cats to Albemarle. We have distributed Community Surveys to get input from our citizens. We have developed a Strategic Plan from which our Annual Budgets and Capital Improvement Plan are being implemented. Completed Courthouse Plaza.

Michael: Involvement in the city was never a question for me, I am a third generation employee and staying involved in my community was a priority.
The city has experienced unprecedented growth in the past 10 years. Commercial growth came first with many new areas developed which are now filled with many great stores and restaurants. This growth is continuing today. We are currently seeing large growth in residential housing that are being constructed across many areas of the city.
Our downtown revitalization is an ongoing process with so many accomplishments. The Pfeiffer Health Sciences facility and programs was a catalyst in attracting additional major investment. The former Albemarle Hotel’s renovation now serves as The Residences luxury apartments and a restaurant. Once Lowder Hardware, the building now serves as First and Main apartments and retail space for new business. The former Home Savings was renovated and serves as the Police Department. These are just a few of the accomplishments that are changing our city. The next four years will be important in continuing our progress. I am asking the voters to allow me to continue to lead the city as we continue to grow and expand opportunities for our community.

Townsend:
A. As a council with a diverse range of visions for the city we have accomplished numerous things which coincide with every element of our strategic plan ranging from infrastructure needs; policies that promote growth; purchases that enhances safety and security; and implementing programs and services for improved quality of life.
B. I would like for voters to consider my reelection for I believe I bring value to the table when things are considered that I believe are in the best interest for all citizens of Albemarle and give great thought and consideration to ensure fairness.

Aldridge: We have accomplished many things over the last 10 years! Several of our key accomplishments are the Pfeiffer University Health Services building in downtown Albemarle, the soon to be completed Albemarle Business Center, many new businesses and resturants and we still have many more great things on the way!

3. Why do you think you are the most qualified candidate for the position?

Dry: I believe I’m the most qualified candidate due to my extensive experience as a small business owner and my time on the City Council. Running a business has taught me the importance of being a good money manager. I’ve taken those lessons and applied them as a steward of taxpayer money. Just as I manage expenses and investments in my business, I apply the same principles to city finances, ensuring we maximize every dollar.
My tenure on the City Council has also given me valuable experience in navigating complex legal issues. Making the wrong decision can lead to lawsuits, ultimately leaving taxpayers responsible for the bill. For example, when the council was asked to vote on banning drag shows, I recognized significant legal problems in the proposed changes, crafted by religious leaders. Although I personally oppose drag shows and don’t believe children should attend them, I prioritized the legal implications over my emotions. The proposal was legally unenforceable and would have exposed the city to costly lawsuits.
My voting record demonstrates my commitment to protecting our children. I voted to support the “Prevent Harm to Children” Act, a state law that created stricter penalties that applies to drag shows and any obscene materials. I am dedicated to doing what’s best for our community while safeguarding your taxpayer dollars.

Furr: I’m not the best, but I’m a concern citizen on how I would like Albemarle to grow with beauty. I do not like how our council approves all the housing developments. Stripping the land and moving dirt to max out every acre, in order to build houses, will cause more run off into our creeks. We the taxpayer will pay for down the road. Remember the famous rain tax City tried to pass.

Hall: Good Government and Good Governance doesn’t just happen. There is a learning curve when it comes to service delivery dealing with enterprise funds, general funds and fund balance. I have attended many hours of training for Municipal Government and Ethics. I have not allowed my personal beliefs or feelings to prejudge my decision on the hundreds of votes for which I have been involved. I may not personally agree with the issues, but I have always voted in a manner that I believe is best for ALL citizens, is legal and does not place our city in a liability situation.
I have years of Institutional knowledge and experience. I do not “just vote” but look at the implications and legality of each vote. I continue to “serve” not at the plea of some group or organization.
I prepare for each meeting and do not depend on others to update me on any issue. I do not allow my opinion nor bullying to interfere with what is the “right thing for the city.” A City Council member is not about a position, it is about service.
I have always strived for complete transparency, effective communication and immediate response to situations.

Michael: My years of involvement with the city as an employee, council member and Mayor have given me the opportunity to become aware of some of the expectations of our citizens and the needs of our community. Municipal government requires elected leaders to become aware of many different areas of local government. Albemarle is a full-service municipality. To clarify, our city offers services that other municipalities do not. There are only a few cities that offer the number of services as Albemarle.
Knowledge of each of these services is required to make accurate decisions. I hope my experience has shown the citizens that I have the required knowledge to continue to lead this city. In addition to this knowledge, I have the desire and commitment to continue to work for our community and lead us through this expected growth we will be experiencing. We must be wise in our decisions and consider all conditions as we approve growth.
While the question asks, why I am most qualified, I must say all decisions concerning the future are a team approach and we must make the decision as a team in order protect our community and our standard of living.

Townsend:
A. Perhaps not the most qualified but definitely a qualified candidate that have a strong desire to consider serving the people of our community with a level of professionalism and dedicated service. We are blessed as a community to have so many talented people and I’m just part of a “Team” approach. At the end of the day I’m a representative of the people and it’s not about me but more about the people I serve. I have no reservations when it come to advocating on their behalf for I’m a firm believer that we are better together.

Aldridge: I feel that with my 10 years of experience in local government, I have a good handle on the key opportunities and important topics that we as the citizens of Albemarle face. I have been and always will be accessible to all citizens and I strongly encourage our residents to get involved! I always appreciate hearing from the people in our community.

4. What do you think are the biggest issues most impacting residents in your community?

Dry: The biggest issues impacting residents in our community include the state of public schools, the need for good-paying jobs, and the effects of inflation.
First, our public schools are a critical concern. Quality education is essential for our children’s future and for attracting families to our community. While the City does not fund nor operate public schools, we need to provide our support in any way we can to ensure that students in our community have a quality education.
Second, the need for good-paying jobs is paramount. That’s why I’m excited about the opportunities the Albemarle Business Center will create. By attracting businesses in advanced manufacturing and technology, we’re paving the way for high-quality careers that will help our residents thrive.
Finally, inflation continues to be a challenge for many families. We can mitigate its impact by keeping taxes and fees low and being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. By ensuring that every dollar is spent wisely, we can help alleviate some of the financial pressures our residents face.
Addressing these issues is vital for the well-being of our community, and I’m committed to working collaboratively to create solutions that benefit everyone.

Furr: With the potential growth from all these developments of houses, I believe our council can’t see the forest because the trees are in the way. This is why more fire and police protection is needed due to the new housing growth. Oakboro police dept disbanded and contracted with our county sheriff dept just like Badin uses. Maybe it’s time for our City and County to work together on Fire and Police protection.
Gangs are growing more and more and already here but not that active in Albemarle. We need to allocate more money to our streets. Consulting expense needs to stop on every idea that City Council wants to look into.

Hall: These issues are NOT the responsibility of the City Council as they are COMMUNITY issues. The City can do some things to assist with these following issues. These issues are not partisan. They are Homelessness; Drugs; Vagrants. Housing that our working population can afford to rent and/or own. Public Education (which is a joint effort between educators and parents) by providing the funding and opportunities for learning for all our students. Better availability of childcare facilities; Public Transportation; Livable wage Jobs; Continue to search for opportunities of revenue for the City verses placing the burden on our citizens through property tax.
These are some of the same issues that many other cities are also experiencing. As indicated earlier, many of these the City does not have direct responsibility for though the issue affects the livelihood of our citizens.

Michael: The first issue would always be the cost that a resident is required to pay. Our city must be as efficient as possible to provide services to the community. Our city must look to approve smart growth and consider what is best for the community. Residents often see the issues differently, what is important to one may not be as important to another.
Crime, Parks, Roads, Housing, Litter, Speeding, School Safety, Homeless and Fire Safety are just some of the many issues the city must work to address. Our community deserves and expects the leaders to be aware of these needs and work to address any situation that may occur. We must always make family values and smart growth a priority when we make decisions.

Townsend:
A. Affordable Housing and Livable Wages.
B. Lack of Economic Growth.
C. Public Safety.

Aldridge: I believe there are several key issues that we must continue to monitor.
Our homeless situation is something that must continue to be addressed as well as our current influx of new neighborhoods.
We must work with the other communities in Stanly County to ensure that we are all striving to bring more industry and good paying jobs to the area.
We must also work with our local Board of Education to make sure that our public schools are offering the best possible educational opportunities to our students.
We must continue to understand that a win for Albemarle is a win for Stanly County and vice versa.

5. What would you focus on if you got elected/re-elected?

Dry: If re-elected, I would focus on several key areas that are vital for our community’s quality of life.
First, I am committed to improving our city’s infrastructure, particularly our roads. I have consistently voted to increase the budget for street repair, and I will continue to prioritize this essential work. I believe we need to explore innovative solutions to address the rising costs of street maintenance. Additionally, I will advocate on behalf of the City for NCDOT to its part in enhancing the streets they maintain.
Another significant focus for me will be managing growth effectively. I will advocate for smart growth policies. Development should happen in a way that not only meets our needs but also preserves the character of our community.
Economic development is also a top priority. We need to create quality job opportunities for residents of all skill levels and backgrounds, both now and in the future. By fostering a business-friendly environment and attracting new industries, we can ensure our local economy thrives.
Finally, I am passionate about enhancing our parks and recreation facilities. Our community deserves parks that offer something for everyone, especially our children. I will work to improve existing facilities and develop new ones, making sure they benefit everyone.

Furr: I would like to start a new project on Wiscasset land with a different twist. My proposal is to make this “Albemarle Citizen Park” with sandlots (grass fields) for Baseball, Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Soccer and build a skateboard arena for our youth. Pave all around the field for walking, jogging, bicycling, dog walking and roller skating. Nothing fancy but just good old Sandlot entertainment.

Hall: Continue to serve the public; continue to work toward a good relationship with our County Commissioners and our Board of Education; Continue to support what other municipalities in our county are doing. What is good for one part of the county is good for all. We are stronger together.
Continue to work on a plan to fund our Capital Improvement Plan. For years, this has been a wish list, but is truly a list of projects and items that must be acquired to continue with the level of service we need for our citizens.
Continue to focus on increasing pavement and look for ways to pay for it.
Continue to support our departments as they provide the service to our citizens.
Continue to work with our Economic Development Department to make the Albemarle Business Center a Mixed Use Area with jobs, childcare and other needed amenities.
Continue to listen to the needs of our citizens and find resolutions to problems they may be experiencing.
Continue to ensure that we have a municipality with accountability, responsibility and mobility moving forward with effective and efficient service delivery.

Michael: Everything I have mentioned in these questions are areas we must focus to address, but there is one area I have not specifically mentioned before. That would be economic development. I mentioned commercial growth earlier. The city was involved in nearly all the growth we have experienced, but a few, the Pfeiffer building, the Hardware renovation and The Residences would have only occurred with city involvement.
The city has continued to invest in city buildings, parks, roads and more to bring economic development to our city. The major investment I look to continue to move forward is the new business center the city has constructed and opening in the next couple months.
After going for years with practically no suitable buildings or property to attract industry, we will now have large amounts of industrial property available to locate industry and incorporate industrial buildings built for nearly any size employer. The growth of our residential housing and additional workforce will provide an attraction to potential companies willing to invest in our community and operate their business here. I look forward to working with business to bring industry and jobs to our community.

Townsend:
A. Ensuring that our Public Housing regain some stability in regard to staffing and restore compliance to HUD standards and restore a sense of trust from the residents.
B. Continually promote our Albemarle Business Center for it will be the driving force of many growth opportunities.
C. Achieve better working relations with our other governing bodies such as County Commissioners; School Board; etc. for the City of Albemarle have no oversight for policy or funding within our school system other than providing school resource officers and some After School programs, but we all need to find a way to work collaboratively and address the educational deficiencies that are lacking within our system as it ultimately affects economic recruitment.
D. Supporting some of our relatively new city staff in promoting positive initiatives.

Aldridge: 5. (See No. 4)

6. The city has had a big focus on revitalizing the downtown area. What would you like to see happen downtown next?

Dry: I’d love to see us continue building on the progress we’ve made downtown. In recent years, we’ve added vibrant places to shop, eat and live, with over $11 million in private investment and 39 new jobs created just last year. This shows downtown is a place where people are investing their resources and are being supported. Beyond that, it’s nice to see moms pushing strollers and people walking their dogs on our downtown sidewalks again.
To sustain this momentum, we must foster an environment that encourages entrepreneurs to renovate old buildings and storefronts, turning them into thriving businesses. Supporting our existing small businesses is equally important. That’s why I’ve voted in favor of the Downtown Catalyst grant program, which provides vital assistance to small business owners as they work to grow and succeed.
I also believe amenities like the social district. Adults are allowed to visit a restaurant or brewery, then take their beverage with them as they shop. This is a simple step other cities have taken to encourage visitors and support foot traffic to local businesses.
Looking ahead, I envision more collaborative initiatives that bring together local businesses and the community, along with events that celebrate our downtown’s special history. By investing in infrastructure and ensuring our downtown remains an attractive destination, we’ll have a bright future.

Furr: Tough and tricky question to not offend some of our citizens who have their heart and soul in downtown development. I would suggest looking into more/better parking for people to be able to shop. Maybe it’s time to build a parking deck or two.

Hall: Additional living opportunities; additional and regular downtown activities; dining and entertainment as we continue to prosper from hosting the Pfeiffer Center for Health Sciences.
I believe as Pfeiffer adds programs in Albemarle, we will continue to see additional students living downtown. However, for them to live downtown, there must be activities for them to enjoy. Currently, some of the students are living in surrounding cities where they have places to go and things to do in the evenings. I would love to see additional businesses downtown to provide for the needs of individuals living downtown.
I want to see a thriving downtown. It is my hope that Courthouse Plaza will be the first of the alleyways that can be brought back to life. I have seen how other small towns in our region and state have people downtown all the time.
This is my dream for downtown.

Michael: Major investments are still needed in our downtown. The city has worked to improve amenities and streetscapes. Partnerships have and will continue to be important to transform some of our private or public spaces and buildings. The City, Albemarle Downtown Development Corporation and Uwharrie Bank have partnered to develop a Catalyst Grant program to encourage property owners to invest in their property and make repairs, appearance and functionality a priority to improve our downtown. Many projects are in various stages, but I see new business, restaurants and more housing as a priority. The city is in the process of working with a developer to purchase the former Police Department and hopefully those plans will be announced soon. The city must work with property owners to either improve their property or in some cases assist in finding new owners that would be willing to invest in this community. The downtown is changing from a passive community to a vibrant community. I ask you to allow me to be a part of this change. If you are looking to start a business, please reach out to the city.
The nation, state and local communities face an important election this year.
Please vote.

Townsend:
A. Thriving businesses with some diversity to capture and engage all segments of the city population and ultimately increase foot traffic for retail growth.
B. Increased activities at the Albemarle Neighborhood Theater.
C. Increased safety measures to ensure a safe atmosphere.
D. Entertainment options at Courthouse Alley; Market Station; Courthouse Square.
E. Restoration; Revitalization and Utilization of the old Albemarle Police Department.

Aldridge: Our downtown is an integral part of our community. It’s the “life blood!”
I will continue to look at ways to enhance and make our downtown more inviting for residents and visitors alike. We must hold our property owners accountable to keep the properties in good standing, both structurally and physically.
We must also ensure to all folks that our downtown is safe.
I will continue to look at ways and make suggestions as to the best possible ways to make our city (downtown) a desirable place to be.
Thank you for your trust and confidence! I am looking forward to continuing to serve the citizens of Albemarle! May God continue to bless our nation and our community!