Question 1. New initiatives.
Embrace the challenge and begin a comprehensive plan to reduce the effects of Opioids and other drugs. Recently established Opioid Response Team Committee to look for new programs and funding options to find solutions to eliminate this increasing epidemic in our county.
Use recently created Capital Planning Model as a tool to assist in funding capital and large recurring expenses such as repairs, maintenance and information technology.
Question 2. Number 1 challenge facing the county? Is there a solution?
There are many challenges of delivery and necessary services to our residents. However, at this time, I feel the number one challenge is getting clean water to affected areas of Cumberland County. Over a year ago our commissioners became acutely aware of substances in the Cape Fear River and in the drinking water of communities downstream from Chemours Fayetteville works where GenX is produced. Until last year, waste, including GenX, was dumped directly into the river. While that has stopped, we have subsequently learned that tons of GenX has been emitted into the atmosphere every year and contaminated hundreds of private wells around the plant.
Solution.
Continue testing for contamination by DEQ and take appropriate action.
Swift action by regulatory agencies to get safe water to the residents of the Cape Fear River Basin whose water supplies have been contaminated.
Much stronger federal and state oversight of companies that produce and spill toxic chemicals.
Continue discussions/planning with PWC to discuss necessary steps for availability of water to affected areas. Designate PWC as primary water provider.
Continue informational meetings in affected areas for residents.
Question 3. Unmaintained roads in county neighborhoods and thoughts for solving problem?
Unmaintained county roads leave residents in limbo. Repairs are costly for residents on roads that are not state-maintained. The problem of such “orphaned roads” spans our state. Often residents along a street can’t or simply won’t take steps required for DOT to adopt the street/ road for road upkeep and bring it under state government’s umbrella. The longer residents wait, the worse it gets. It is sad that the NC State General Assembly considered a state wide plan and possible solution and DOT dropped the plans due to extreme costs. DOT responded that they had only limited dollars.
My thoughts.
Yet another example where the states “rule book” sets out a detailed series of steps before a public street or road can be added to the system. Example: where requirements stymies many neighborhoods and process begins who takes responsibility for street/road once petition approved by DOT? Too much red tape, time for General Assembly to take another look at this issue.
Question 4. About myself and why I choose to run for office?
Currently completing my 4th year as a county commissioner and currently serving as chairman. It basically is all about community. I have spent my lifetime of 76 years in Cumberland County. Most of my adult life as a teacher, principal, school board member, Cumberland County Commissioner has been devoted to making Cumberland County a place where people are happy and proud to live. After 4 years of service more convinced than ever before that counties should play a larger role in state government. Counties continue to be increasingly responsible for new demands for services, and improved delivery. We must continue to seek additional ways to provide necessary levels of service, funding, accountability and sustainability. Much progress has be achieved but we face many new unprecedented challenges. I still believe that strength and legitimacy of county government is most evident when it is closest to our residents.
I believe my history of service to Cumberland County confirms my commitment to the residents of our great county. I welcome the opportunity to serve again and not only focus on our immediate challenges, such as clean water, but to create a future for Cumberland County where the extraordinary is waiting to be released.
Question 5. Would you accept Realtors PAC funds? Do you have open campaign account?
Yes will accept and yes have open campaign account.
Larry Leon Lancaster
Current Chairman of Cumberland County Commissioners
2602 Dartmouth Dr. Fayetteville, NC 28304
910-484-2774 home
lll@nc.rr.com
Democrat
At Large County Commissioner
18 years Cumberland County School Board member.
Community Involvement/See questionnaire
Community Endorsements/None at this time
