Picerno, Marcus face off for Commissioner
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By JOHN LENTZ
Staff Writer
Incumbent Nick Picerno will face challenger Ellen Marcus for the District 2 seat of the Moore County Board of Commissioners.
The District 5 position on the board is also open this year, but Republican Randy Saunders is running unopposed. Current Commissioner Tim Lea is not seeking re-election.
Picerno, a Republican first elected in November 2008, is a member of the board of health, the Local Emergency Planning Committee, the Emergency Services Advisory Committee, and the Workforce Development board.
A Moore County native, Picerno serves on the Department of Social Services' board of directors and the Pleasant Living Healthcare board of directors. Picerno has served two terms as commissioners chairman, in 2008 and 2011.
Picerno said his most important role as a county commissioner is to be an advocate for citizens.
"My role is to provide the services that are necessary for citizens to pursue 'life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,'" he said. "This begins by understanding what those services are and how they are to be paid for. Upon my election in 2008, our economy was melting down, and sources of revenue were decreasing at all levels of government. Our federal government decided to borrow money to fund its services, while we (in Moore County) chose to cut spending to balance our budget."
Picerno said those cuts were done with the "least effect" on citizens and employees.
"Most cannot even name where they occurred, yet in addition to cutting the cost, we reduced their property taxes to help everyone in balancing their own fin-ances. Responsible, efficient government can be done if the elected people are willing to do the work."
Picerno said he will address pending issues that he believes are "crucial to providing the continued lifestyle we enjoy, especially for our kids and grandkids."
"By reducing the amount of money that government takes, it allows our citizens to make the personal choices as to where they spend their hard-earned dollars," Picerno said. "Therefore, keeping a lean budget is a top priority (and) within that budget, we must have priorities. These include our share of funding for the education of our kids, providing law enforcement the tools they need to keep us safe, and holding those accountable that don't play by the rules. It includes protecting and expanding our water and sewer capacity which, in turn, make economic growth possible."
Picerno said that hiring a new county manager is also a high priority.
"Treating people fairly by reducing unnecessary and outdated ordinances that don't pass the 'common sense' test, looking after the employees of the county so they can serve the public efficiently and providing for their families, and continuing to develop economic opportunities here so people work, play and then retire here" are additional priorities that Picerno said he would address.
Picerno also said he had "many reasons" to run for reelection.
"It begins with my love of my home," he said. "I was born and raised here, attended Moore County schools, and founded a business that makes its home here in our county. We must continue to redefine and reinvent our government in order to provide those necessary services, but (must also) 'get out of the way' when government becomes the problem."
Marcus, a Democrat, said that addressing the increase in the Moore County poverty rate will be one of her priorities as a county commissioner.
"From 2008 to 2011 the poverty rate in Moore County increased from 8 to 19 percent, one of the highest increases in America," she said. "It is time to be proactive in checking and reversing the problem. We first need to fully understand the underlying problems and then we can address this challenge with assertive efforts that will improve quality of life."
Marcus said she will bring "positive change" as a new member of the board.
"One of the first changes I will bring to the Moore County commissioners is that I offer perspectives and a background that are not adequately represented on the board. However, I will not push for change just for the sake of change - there should be a thoughtful process to solve problems.
"Our current board has sometimes become bogged down, pushing national and state political agendas in Moore County. My focus will be at the local level. I will work hard improving job growth, decreasing the poverty rate and protecting and conserving our resources."
Marcus said the first step in positive change is education.
"This responsibility should not fall solely on our education system," she said. "We need to work at the individual, family, community and county levels to instill in our youth a sense of civic pride with the expectation of community service."
Marcus, who planned to complete a weekend walking tour across the county today as part of her campaign, said she is seeking the position of county commissioner based on her "convictions."
"My daddy was a smart, quiet, honest and hardworking man," she said. "He seldom complained, and his attitude was 'actions speak louder than words.' I am running for office because I am acting on my convictions. I will leave self-interest at the door and focus on the issues that are important to the whole county.
"I am not a politician," she said. "What I lack in experience I will make up for in common sense, energy, intelligence, creativity, fairness and being a good listener. I have no interest in moving on to Raleigh or running for other offices. If elected, my goal is to listen to my fellow citizens, be hands-on, and act in fairness."
Contact John Lentz at (910) 693-2479 or jlentz@thepilot. com.
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Comments
handyssc2 7 months ago
While The Pilot writes of Picerno’s experience and committee appointments, it fails to provide key information related to Ellen Marcus’ candidacy: her tenure as a reporter for The Fayetteville Observer assigned to cover Moore County Commission meetings. That’s where she developed her knowledge of county issues and that’s where she observed a gap in representation by her opponent of a major segment of Moore County’s residents. It was this exposure that influenced her decision to throw her hat into the ring. Vote for Ellen Marcus. She'll represent ALL the people.
cooldaddy 7 months ago
Writing is not a huge qualification for this job. It is great to have the knack for writing, but we need Picerno's business sense. Pick Nick, not Knack.
Toda 7 months ago
Joe do you really want to take the high road when meeting laws have been broken, the Constitutional right of the voters have been sequestered by two people in Poorer County over a 52.4 million dollar spending spree; taxpayers money was used for benefiting a golf course halfway to Pinehurst, public debt that has increased to unconscionable percentages. Shall I re-post Moodies' financial report showing where the bond was in part issued due to the fact that county employees haven't received cost of living raises? An influx of military personnel through BRAC for revenue resources. What about taxpayers land handed over to the airport authority paid for by taxpayers who have no control over the "authority".
At the end of the day your father-in-law will be re-elected since Poorer County Republicans vote along party lines as opposed to voting on violations of NC General Statues and unethical behaviors.
AFCHIEF 7 months ago
TODA the gangsta, it is Moore County not poorer
tarheelborn 7 months ago
While ALSO being born here, I like Nick, BUT he has had his time and proven to SPEND LIKE OBAMA! ! ! WTH did he think he was doing? I oft times disagree with Toda, but sorry. HE IS RIGHT this time... However, I know very little about his opponent and tend Not to Vote for someone I may be fearful of... Maybe some organization can arrange an Open Debate before the election. Then we can make an informed decision on casting our ballots...
doughnuts 7 months ago
Ellen Marcus is more than just an old trendy slogan representing a picnic. Ellen Marcus is walking throughout Moore County, meeting the voters and actively listening. Great job Ellen Marcus!
Toda 7 months ago
Chief ~ there you go again with the insults...it's very obvious you haven't come up to speed on the increase in debt since 2007. Can you send an email or is that way out of your abilities? If so, let me know and I'll post the information from Ken Larking that was prepared at the request of Tim Lea and Nick Picerno after my last posting of the escalating debt.
xemrac 7 months ago
I can't stand a democrat...but this crazy spending spree has got to stop. Picerno & Caddell have spent enough of my money.
Toda 7 months ago
I can't stand a democrat...now that's not a nice thing to say. Aren't we all Americans first and foremost?
babiehop 7 months ago
If it is illegal for commissioners to discuss the sale of county property behind closed doors and there are recordings of the BOC doing just that, when does Mr. Picerno plan on "... holding those accountable that don't play by the rules" ? Does he think himself and the rest of the board above the law ? I suppose they make up their own set of rules as they go and think that rules that everyone else is expected to follow don't apply if you're a commissioner.
silentbob 7 months ago
Nick is the right choice.
theonewithsense 7 months ago
As a conservative, there is no way I will vote for Picerno. We need elected officials that will spend money responsibly. Driving by the jail-mahal should make anyone sick to their stomach.
babiehop 7 months ago
Aw, c'mon, don't you just love how the ornate brick work looks in the soft glow of the neon BailBonds signs ?
plumblevel 7 months ago
Picerno has nearly bankrupted Moore County with his spending. Do not trust the numbers given by Ken Larking. He was caught on his very first presentation playing with the numbers.How many times would Picerno when challenged not admit that he was building a Federal Detention Center? Was he not challenged with the Jessica Lumsford law as to the fact the building must stay at least 300 feet back from a school crossing sign? Have you seen how close they built up to the school crossing sign? Maybe ten feet. A judge has already ruled pedophiles and the like cannot check in at this Detention Center. So more spending $$'s for Moore County to build another location so they can check in.Great planning. Picerno needs to pack his bags.Voting for Marcus!!!!
Toda 7 months ago
Silentbob aka Jimmy Melton is back on the boards. It must be election time and the puppet master is pulling his strings ~ as usual....Can no one think for themselves anymore?
madmama 7 months ago
I thank God that Nick Picerno is running again! Even in the face of worms like Toda spewing pointless, unfounded lies he is choosing to stand up for the people of Moore County and is determined to make it a better place! Ellen Marcus doesn't have a clue! At the local debate, she didn't even seem to understand the job of the county commissioner! How can you do the job if you don't even know what is in your job description? They asked about land use and she started talking about Butterfly cottages and how her dress was made in the USA? Ok...and the point? My point exactly! My vote is for Picerno! He knows how to get the job done, because he understands what the job is!
plumblevel 7 months ago
@madmama Why are you always mad? You write like someone defending their husband.Now let me ask you this. If you were married to Nick, would your children not benefit from the increased sales of criminal software products with the new jail since Nick founded Southern Software and your children are stockholders? Yes, Picerno knows how to get the job done (increasing his family's wealth) and he understands the job (getting the county to pay for an incredible software showroom aka the new Detention Center). I guess your idea of honesty and mine are worlds apart.Just my opinion. Let us see if you are able to take this opinion down. If you are, I will be calling one of the owners of the Pilot. Not sure who at the Pilot protects Nick.Fed up with it.
madmama 7 months ago
@plumblevel It's the ignorant like you that keep me mad. Picerno has done pretty well for himself and I don't see how one software deal would make that much difference in one's financial state. Further, Picerno's children are adults..and you think they are stockholders because...once again ignorant. Nick Picerno is a honest man, full of integrity; willing to speak with anyone who has questions. Why don't you call him if you are so hot and bothered. Sounds like you are the one still fuming about the detention center. You seem to be very into the personal details of the commissioners life. Obsessed much? Maybe you should seek some professional help. (and stop having fantasies about the commissioner and madmama...I am happily married to someone else.)
Zoey 7 months ago
'get out of the way' when government becomes the problem."
. lol
Arestorer 7 months ago
madmama:::::::Why do you care?? Opinions are like(you know).....I'm a D.A....(dumb A#$)But everyone has the right to their own opinion..Dont you agree?? If you think everything in Moore Co. is going well,Vote to re-instate Nick...I, for one dont think things are going good...So, I will not be voting for the incumbant..Moore Co.is not doing as good as I would hope...SO,KICK THE BUMBS OUT!! It seems like every voting season,were voting for the lesser of two evils...SUCKS!!, Dont you think? But we have to elect someone. Everyone keeps complaining about our Pres.,But continue to put people in office that are not worthy.Vote for ME!....Im as Qualified as most in office...That means (I suck too)....Chill out and Vote for who you think will HELP..........
plumblevel 7 months ago
Re: madmama's comments on Ellen Marcus/Picerno debate, I would recommend going to Vimeo October 11, 2012 Moore County League of Women Voters Candidates Forum by William P. Cochrane and hear the debate for yourself. Madmama missed the point about Butterfly Cottages and her dress being made in the USA. Marcus made excellent points especially about education. She also walked across Moore County in three days!. What is Nick doing? Holding a party in Camelot Park with free food, music and a jumping house???? What a contrast.
madmama 7 months ago
Yeah Libby, I heard about Ellen's "walk across Moore County." Several people told me how she was preaching to them about her stance on fracking and such issues that are dealt with at the state level NOT the county. Once again, she doesn't understand the job. What was the point about Butterfly Cottages and such? I don't need to listen online...I actually cared enough to show up. How about you?
lawdog 7 months ago
i have had the privelage of knowing Ellen Marcus for several years. Back when she was writing, and working for the Malcolm Blue Farm, trying to preserve this county's history. She is a very bright lady, devoted to her family, and her commuunity. She, unlike the the current people on the board, is the type of person who would spend taxpayers money like it was her own, and we need that!! She is willing to walk across the county to talk and meet the residents, unlikee others, inviting a certian few to a "private fundraiser" of some type to likely benefit them after the election,,,