Ty Ziglar, candidate for mayor of Fuquay-Varina, NC

For the first time in two decades, Fuquay-Varina will have a new mayor.

John Byrne announced he will not seek another term, paving the way for a new leader of the fast-growing southern Wake County town.

There are three people hoping to fill that spot.

Early voting in the Nov. 2 election begins Oct. 14 and runs through Oct. 30.

To find polling places and full details on early voting, visit wakevotesearly.com or contact the Board of Elections at 919-404-4040 or voter@wakegov.com

Name: Ty Ziglar

Age: 46

Residence: 847 Red Oak Tree Drive

Occupation: Dental practice manager

Education: Bachelor of Science degree, Finance — Virginia Commonwealth University

Political or civic experience: I’m new to politics but not new to serving the community. My civic experience has mostly been as a citizen, dealing with local government, and as a volunteer for community organizations, such as our local track club, my church, and creating opportunities for citizens to come together like the march I organized after George Floyd’s death, and “Keep It Poppin” community service award that recognized ordinary women doing extraordinary things.

Campaign website: www.ziglarformayor.com

In August, Fuquay-Varina Mayor John Byrne decided against ordering a mask mandate like some other Wake County towns. Do you agree with this decision?

No. It’s unfortunate that protecting ourselves against this pandemic has become political. As individuals, we each have to take responsibility for doing what’s in the best interests of ourselves and our families. As citizens, we have to consider the welfare of our fellow citizens. But elected officials also have to lead, and care for the people they represent. As mayor, I would encourage people to get vaccinated and protect themselves, and a local mask mandate could help remind all of us to do our civic duty.

Do you plan to vote in favor of Fuquay-Varina’s $38.5 million bond package for parks and transportation projects?

No, our town is growing so quickly now that I believe we should consider increasing the tax on developers and finding other funding sources before holding a bond referendum. As of right now, the town has not put out any detailed information regarding this referendum. For example, the proposal says it “may” include a community center. We also need to revisit the question of a senior facility at the new center. Right now it’s planned as a small section on the second floor. But Apex, for example, has a dedicated standalone senior facility. Fuquay-Varina is beginning to approach the size of Apex, and our seniors have comparable needs.

What is Fuquay-Varina doing right, and wrong, on managing growth?

Growth has definitely presented its share of challenges. I will work with the town council and planning board in making our town welcoming to entrepreneurs, families, and small business owners, but sprawl is a concern. I’d focus on helping small businesses and making downtown more attractive, improving parking, bringing events to our Arts Center that attract people downtown, and be cautious about allowing uncontrolled sprawl and traffic that our infrastructure can’t handle.

If elected, what would your two or three priorities be during your first year in office?

First, providing more transparency. I’d make town policies and procedures, including those for police, clearly visible on our town website.

Second, citizen dialogue. Although the mayor and the Board of Commissioners allow citizens to speak at meetings, they rarely respond with anything other than a “thank you.” I’d promote town halls where there’s real back-and-forth. Town employees aren’t heard either, and I’d like to increase employee morale. It’s easier to lead if you have the trust of those you’re leading.

Third, managing growth not just for today but for the future. We don’t want to end up with sprawl such as abandoned homes and developers unable to complete projects if there’s a downturn in the economy. Our growth should include housing that welcomes our military, police officers, fire fighters, and teachers.

What unique skills or life perspective would you bring to city governance?

My background in finance will help me make sure we manage our expenditures wisely. I have demonstrated the ability to work with citizens of various backgrounds to get things done, and shown that I can build bridges and trust with citizens. Our town needs a leader that can do that. I’m not afraid to have difficult conversations, either, and I care for others even when we don’t agree. As a mother of three, I know the challenges of raising a family in our town. It’s easy to get caught up in politics, but with the many challenges and opportunities ahead we need a mayor who can put partisan politics aside and guide our town into the future.

This story was originally published October 14, 2021 at 2:40 PM with the headline "Ty Ziglar, candidate for mayor of Fuquay-Varina, NC."