Challenger ousts incumbent for Edenton at-large seat

By Connie Sage, Correspondent

EDENTON, N.C.

In the only contested race for Town Council, political newcomer Bob Quinn defeated Mayor Pro Tem Jerry Parks for the at-large seat.

Parks has been on the Town Council nearly 18 years. He ran on a platform of "staying the course." Quinn argued that the town needed change, in light of its 12 percent unemployment rate.

George Grother, another at-large candidate, urged greater transparency and tighter fiscal controls.

Parks said the demographics of Edenton had changed, with new residents apparently voting for Quinn.

At his victory celebration, Quinn said, "My intention is to represent the town and present the town to North Carolina in a new and creative manner."

Running unopposed in the nonpartisan elections were council member Willis Privott, who has represented the 4th Ward for 28 years, and 3rd Ward council member Phyllis Britton, who's been on the council for nearly six years.

Edenton Board of Adjustments member LoriAnn Curtin and Ellis Lawrence were write-in candidates.