Thursday, Oct. 15, 2009

Batesburg-Leesville elections

Mayor

Steve Cain

Age: 42

Education: Attended Georgetown University; attending University of South Carolina

Occupation: Government liaison for Benedict College

Elected political experience: Town councilman since 2005

Current membership in community organizations: none Family: Single

Why I am running: One of the most important issues facing Batesburg-Leesville is water. I oppose the plan to close the town water plant and enter into a partnership in water and sewer operations with the Saluda County Water & Sewer Authority. Owning and operating our water and sewer plant makes Batesburg-Leesville strong and self sustaining — giving that up is a huge mistake. We need to upgrade our existing water plant.

James Wiszowaty

Incumbent

Age: 50

Education: Graduated from a Chicago high school

Occupation: Restaurant owner

Elected political experience: mayor since 2001

Current community organizations: Executive director, Batesburg-Leesville Chamber of Commerce; Batesburg Business Association; Leesville Business Association Family: Married

Why I am running: We’re positioned for continued future growth. But in order for Batesburg-Leesville to remain competitive with other towns in Lexington County, we must have water and sewer infrastructure in the ground and ready to go to accommodate growth and expansion. That’s why we must invest in capacity in the Saluda County water plant. With the economy in the straits, now is the time to build this project.

Town Council, District 1

Pansy Buzhardt

Age: 56

Education: Batesburg-Leesville High graduate; attended Midlands Technical College and Lexington Vocation Center school of nursing

Occupation: Real estate broker

Elected political experience: none

Current community organizations: Batesburg-Leesville Chamber of Commerce; Panther Pals mentor

Family: Married, two daughters and one grandchild

Why I am running: I believe in being an active participant in the community in which we live. I will always do my homework, research issues and come to the table prepared. I will actively seek advice from citizens and encourage their input. I believe in open, transparent government. I believe government’s duty is to provide a level playing field for all without being overly obtrusive.

Mark DeLoach

Incumbent

Age: 48

Education: University of South Carolina, bachelor’s in political science

Occupation: Furniture restoration

Elected political experience: Town councilman since 2005

Current community organizations: Batesburg-Leesville Cham-ber of Commerce; Batesburg Business Association; Economic Development Committee

Family: Married, one son

Why I am running: We’re definitely on the right track with improvements that will bring positive enhancement to Batesburg-Leesville. I support the proposed water and sewer project to make our town more competitive for growth and will help lead careful planning between Town Council and the Planning Commission to ensure our town’s future and prosperity. My goal is to remain proactively involved. It’s my hope that we’ll move ahead together for the future of our wonderful community.

— Compiled by Tim Flach

Other Batesburg-Leesville Town Council races

Incumbents will be re-elected automatically

District 3

- Steven Cain (I)

- Note: John Burgess is running as a write-in candidate but will not appear on an official ballot

Uncontested

- District 5: Sabrena Etheredge

- District 7: Rita Crapps (I)

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