2023 Candidate Questionnaire – Town of Huntersville
Ahead of Election Day 2023, candidates running for election for Town of Huntersville Mayor and Board of Commissioners were provided a survey to complete and share their position on arts and culture. Below are the verbatim responses we received, grouped by question.
Not pictured: Christy Clark, candidate for Mayor, Town of Huntersville.
Dan Boone: I am a founder and original member of Olde Huntersville History Society. As citizens we support history in our community. We restored the old jail, which now on the Historical Landmarks Commission list, the old town library, and we had all the misspelled Alexandriana state/NCDOT signs changed to the correct spelling.
Christy Clark: I currently work at an elementary school as a guest teacher. In my position, I had the opportunity to substitute teacher for our extensions students. That day, Allegra, a dance therapy group came to the school. The joy and fun the students experienced with this group was phenomenal. There are growth opportunities every day for these students but on days Allegra visits you can see gift that music and dancing brings to their lives.
Derek Partee: My Uncle Elwood White, was an assistant principal at the High School for Art and Design, Queens, NY from 1978 to mid 1990’s. My appreciation for the arts was nurtured by my family and growing up in New York with access to all the cultural venues.
Alisia Bergsman: I believe that the arts and sciences help foster understanding and empathy among different cultural groups. Most recently, I had the incredible honor of watching the showcase performance of students participating in the Youth Exchange Project. Y.E.P.’s summer theater program empowers a diverse group of students from our community to learn to speak their stories and celebrate different cultures and lived experiences. My teen participated in the program, and watching the culminating performance that was written, choreographed, and performed by teens in two weeks was deeply impactful for the entire audience.
Amanda Dumas: I’ve been deeply involved in the arts for as long as I can remember. It all started when I was a shy kid, and the stage became my sanctuary. Acting not only helped me gain confidence but also allowed me to explore different characters and their struggles, broadening my perspective on the world’s diverse cultures. This passion led me to pursue a major in Education Theatre in college, a decision that has profoundly impacted my life and career. Beyond confidence, I learned valuable life skills. Balancing a full-time school schedule, rehearsals, and work to fund my education taught me time management and responsibility. Overcoming stage fright for public speaking engagements showed me the power of perseverance. I also learned the importance of taking risks and embracing improvement through my mistakes, fostering a sense of humility. After college, I served as a board member and director for the Newington Children’s Theater Company (originally part of the Parks and Rec programming for the town), working with kids from all over New England, helping them discover themselves. Many of those kids have gone on to pursue careers in theatre across the country, and knowing I played a role in their journey is incredibly rewarding. Today, I continue to nurture my passion for the arts by living out my rock star dreams, singing in a neighborhood garage band. This lifelong connection to the arts has not only helped me find my own identity but has also allowed me to positively impact my community and inspire others to follow their artistic passions.
Frank Gammon: As a former member of the Town’s Greenway, Trails, and Bike Way Commission, and one who voted to recommend making the Downtown Greenway the Town’s number one greenway priority – It was very satisfying to see the greenway finally finished, and crowned with the “Ascension” art work at the trailhead. The artwork makes the Town’s greenway and art efforts standout. Yes, I connect both to the Downtown Greenway and the art work “Ascension”.
Jennifer Hunt: There are several examples to illustrate how arts and history have connected me with the community. For instance, our Parks and Recreation programming in Veterans Park has brought people together. The Latino Festival is an excellent example of this, as I interacted with members of the Latino community and listened to music, enjoyed food, and danced salsa and merengue. Additionally, Huntersville is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, and the social media posts and facts about our history, as well as the Hay Days festival itself, have allowed me to connect better with my town through reflection, knowledge sharing, and social interaction.
Amber Kovacs: In high school, I took Photo 1, 2, 3, and AP Photography. I had a tumultuous upbringing, but photography made me feel at home in places that otherwise I would not. I was able to take photographs of exactly what I saw and share it with others to express my feelings. I used a lot of mixed media to depict things that don’t belong, fitting into new places. This love led me to become the founder and president of the Photography Club, and it helped me learn a lot about organizational practices and being a leader to others at a very young age. I learned to take other people’s interests/needs into account when making decisions, learned about keeping paperwork and following rules of the handbook, and getting others involved.
Edwin Quarles: I can’t think of a time. However, I have a suggestions as to how ASC can connect with my community. First I would work with the board and the staff to use more of the hotel and food tax for more public art; work with ASC to bring more programs and projects to our community. Help develop a better marketing plan to encourage our citizens to join us and to join other communities.
Jamie L. Wideman: I recently attended a community event which included a group art project open to all to participate in. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet other community members, learn about the artist, and put a little piece of myself into the community. I look forward to visiting the bench after installation to view the finished project, along with the accompanying mural.
Dan Boone: I believe in and personally enjoy arts and culture though I also believe such endeavors should be supported as a private movement. Government should not tell taxpayers what is art, and funding of art should be personal. Tax payer money must go to roads, etc.
Christy Clark: Bringing arts and sciences programming to Huntersville is a top priority. As we our town grows and diversifies, we should broaden our offerings to include arts and music from all cultures. I would also love to bring my leadership experience and volunteerism to any organization needing volunteers
Derek Partee: The town of Huntersville’s Public Arts Commission will continue to provide cultural advise to enhance the artistic visual landscape.
Alisia Bergsman: Engaging in the arts helps to bring individuals together, fosters community relationships, and contributes to economic growth. I support the work that the Huntersville Arts & Recreation Commission has been doing to bring public art to Huntersville in a way that is accessible and creates cultural identity and a sense of belonging. I will advocate for Huntersville to continue to engage in programs like the SculpTOUR Outdoor Art Exhibition and Culture Blocks that increase the quality of life for our residents.
Amanda Dumas: I’ve been truly inspired by the incredible work of our town’s Parks & Rec team, especially their initiatives like the Latin dance classes and the LalaCaboosa concerts, which have become personal favorite options of mine. My arts and culture priorities align with the idea of expanding upon these successful programs. To achieve this, I intend to foster partnerships with local businesses, and even attract new businesses that can contribute to our arts scene. I’ve observed neighboring towns like Cornelius and Davidson invest in the arts, successfully making it an integral part of their cultural identity. I see this as an opportunity to learn from their experiences and replicate their successes right here in our community. By leveraging these partnerships and taking inspiration from nearby communities, I aim to further enrich our town’s arts and culture offerings, creating a vibrant and diverse cultural landscape that benefits everyone in our community.
Frank Gammon: I will advocate for the arts by ensuring that there are quality art and science programs offered to all of our citizens by the Huntersville Parks and Recreation Department. I will also support the Huntersville Public Art Commission in their efforts to bring art and art events to all of our citizens.
Jennifer Hunt: One of my priorities is creating a Huntersville for everyone, and arts is an important method of doing so. I support additional cultural festivals, programming in our downtown spaces, and funding through grants. I also support greater access to arts education in our school system and local programming. Lastly, we can establish partnerships with groups and organizations prioritizing arts and advocating for cultural vibrancy. All voices should be represented and celebrated.
Amber Kovacs: I would love to attend more cultural events in my community so that I can better support those involved. I would also like to help make sure there is always an artistic/cultural outlet for those that need it and the more I know, the more I can help promote. Art is an outlet for many and I love the ideas of working with our Parks & Rec department to do more art classes for children and some assisted art classes for persons with disabilities.
Edwin Quarles: I would come up with creative ways and ideas to encourage our citizens to be involved in programs. I would push forward to get more companies to be engaged in ASC; Art, history and all their programs. It will be good for their employees.
Jamie L. Wideman: I would love to see us bring more murals and art installations into our downtown area and around Huntersville in general. Several project ideas include the beautification of utility boxes, sidewalk installations, and building murals. I would also love to see us bring art opportunities to a more central location in Huntersville vs all of the Parks & Recs art programs being held on the south side of town at the Rec Center. I would suggest public/private partnerships to bring some of these ideas to fruition.
Dan Boone: As a private citizen I will continue to support privately. As an elected official, I will encourage more accessible educational programs, more access to the internet and to computers. Also, I will encourage our Parks and Rec to continue to include arts and/or crafts events for citizens as well as traditional recreational activities. The residents seem to really like pottery, painting, and jewelry making.
Christy Clark: Actively addressing inequities in arts and culture in Huntersville would mean for the town’s leaders to intentionally bring programming to the area that is reflective of our communities. This means expanding beyond traditional Christian holiday offerings. This also means intentionally bringing local artists to the table to develop events as well including local groups and artists that extend beyond the standard groups.
Derek Partee: The Town of Huntersville has approximately 70,000 residents and is geographically located between the City of Charlotte and Cornelius. Charlotte offers accessibility to a cornucopia of diverse cultural events. Corneilus, has the new Cain Center for the Arts, to bring variation of art exhibits, drama, musicals, comedy and top entertainment. Different ethnic groups now have access to experience cultural activities.
Alisia Bergsman: Addressing all inequities within Huntersville, including within housing, transportation, and education will help the arts flourish. Additionally, residents should not have to travel outside of Huntersville to participate in an arts and cultural experience. I support partnering with organizations like the ASC and residents to bring arts and cultural experiences to neighborhoods that have historically had less equitable access to the arts and sciences.
Amanda Dumas: Addressing inequities in access to arts and culture is of paramount importance to me. Without the support of teachers and other community leaders as a youth myself, I would never have been able to access the programs that ultimately helped in my success to date. I think it all starts with having some of those voices on our board. Edwin Quarles and LaToya Rivers are leaders in Huntersville communities that need a voice on our board. While I ask for your vote, I ask for the public to vote for them as well. I believe we can work together to foster open dialogue with residents, particularly those from historically marginalized groups, to better understand their needs and preferences regarding arts and culture. Actively seeking input and feedback to shape our cultural offerings that resonate with diverse perspectives would be a start.
Frank Gammon: By ensuring there is equal access for all of our citizens through the Huntersville Parks and Recreation Department’s Art and Science Programs, and through the Public Art Commission’s efforts to provide art, art events, and opportunities for local artists.
Jennifer Hunt: While data has been collected for the Charlotte Metropolitan area, it would be helpful to collect local data about inequities in access to art in our community. Once we have the necessary data, it will help us understand the scope, and we can actively engage those communities in the decision-making process. We can listen to their suggestions and needs about improving access to arts. Additionally, we can allocate funding and resources to support arts and cultural programs in underserved communities. This may involve grants or partnerships with local organizations focusing on inclusion.
Amber Kovacs: Being on the LKN Chamber of Commerce and a current Commissioner, I have been able to form many relationships. I am always willing to talk to those that I think could help make programs more accessible and equitable.
Edwin Quarles: I would use more of the hotel restaurant tax funds, and execute a campaign to encourage companies to support all of the ASC programs. This will help our community to continue to grow with good quality residents.
Jamie L. Wideman: Education and transportation are key. First, residents need to know what programs there are to access, and many don’t. Education will likely need to come in the form of community outreach. Transportation will be the next large hurdle, and one we will have to press the county hard on.
Dan Boone: Like any other private citizen, creative workers have a right to work. I will also continue personal donations to organizations of my choice, such as Cornelius youth orchestra.
Christy Clark: As Huntersville develops programming for the upcoming year, we can ensure to waive fees for certain artisans to participate in events like Hello Huntersville and the growers market, particularly those from minority groups.
Derek Partee: Huntersville Parks and Recreation Department has instituted cultural shows and musical entertainment at Veterans Park during the summer.
Alisia Bergsman: Huntersville should do more to retain and attract local artists and creative innovators. We can our commitment to creatives by investing in initiatives that make Huntersville a place where artists are able to sell their work, have access to affordable workspaces, and have opportunities for growth.
Amanda Dumas: I will actively promote the work of local artists and cultural organizations, encouraging partnerships and collaborations to showcase their talents and boost their visibility with the community.
Frank Gammon: The same as I would for any other citizen, small business, or corporate enterprise. By doing my best to provide a vibrate, entrepreneur friendly community, and a financially sound Town government.
Jennifer Hunt: First, we could start by publically recognizing and celebrating the contributions of creative workers in our community. We can provide economic support through grants and other funding opportunities. Lastly, we can collaborate with developers to include more affordable housing and workspaces in planning initiatives so creative professionals can live and work in our community.
Amber Kovacs: Huntersville works hard to have many events that allow local vendors to attend and share their products with others. I love having local artists come sell and share their work. We can always improve this and encourage more events to allow for opportunities. There is also access to local businesses that will support the arts and willingness to sell local items or display them. Forming relationships with these businesses and promoting these ideas is something I am always happy to do. The town is currently renting sculptures for the Sculptour and I love seeing the diversity in the different pieces and hope we continue to do this. I would also like to see murals on buildings painted by local artists. I absolutely get lost in murals on the sides of buildings and have a hope that Huntersville can get more!
Edwin Quarles: As an elected official I would use more means of social media and better signage in more areas of our town (not just Hwy 115 and Gilead Rd).
Jamie L. Wideman: First things first, we have to listen. We need to be open to taking a call, replying to an email, meeting with our citizens. Continuing as many of our vendor fairs, market days, etc as possible will also be vital, as well as creating a downtown which pulls people in for those activities.
Dan Boone: As an private citizen I will continue to support privately. Government should not tell taxpayers what is art, and funding of art should be personal. Tax payer money must go to roads, etc.
Christy Clark: Public funding of arts should be a priority for Mecklenburg County as a whole. As Mayor, I would advocate for public funding from the NCGA, county commission, City of Charlotte and towns surrounding Mecklenburg County. Our corporate partners should also be called upon by elected officials to invest in arts and sciences.
Derek Partee: Serving as Commissioner, I have voted to fund the Public Arts Commission
Alisia Bergsman: I believe in the importance of funding the arts while maintaining good stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Public funding for arts, science, and history programming, if done with specific, measurable goals to identify success, is an essential component of increasing the emotional and mental well-being of our residents and promoting economic growth.
Amanda Dumas: The arts and cultural sector is undeniably instrumental in enhancing our community’s quality of life and economic stability, as evidenced by the impressive statistics from the Arts & Economic Impact Study. In light of our town’s 150th anniversary, I believe we have a unique opportunity to strengthen our connection to our rich history. By creating historical markers at places like the McCoy Slave Cemetery and promoting events at the Hugh Torrance House and Store, we can continue to build awareness of our past and celebrate the figures, buildings, and events that have shaped our community. In summary, I am fully committed to supporting public funding for arts, science, and history programs in our town. These investments not only enrich our quality of life but also contribute significantly to our economic well-being, fostering a more vibrant and resilient community for all residents.
Frank Gammon: First, I will support funding of Art and Science Programs sponsored by the Huntersville Parks and Recreation Department. I feel that if the Town is funding various sports, and athletic facilities that the Town should equally support the funding of Art and Science Programs for the community. Not everyone plays pickleball. Secondly, I will continue to support the existence of the Huntersville Public Arts Commission, and support their efforts to provide art and public art events for our citizens. The commission has been very successful funding the arts through corporate sponsorship, and I will support the continuation of that process. Finally, I will be open to new and innovated ideas to promote the arts in Huntersville.
Jennifer Hunt: Support for funding arts is contingent on numerous factors, such as specific needs of the community, community priorities, resources, and input from residents. After assessing the community’s needs, I would leverage public funding through partnerships with local organizations and institutions. Collaborating helps stretch resources in meaningful ways. Finally, I would prioritize local initiatives to involve and engage youth. Programs that foster a love of arts and learning at a young age are significant and add value and long-lasting benefits to the collective community.
Amber Kovacs: I cannot and will not make singular promises as the decisions are made by the six board members. I can promise to listen to the local needs to better understand the need for funding and its allocations. Our town has many big items needing funds in the upcoming years, so it would be impractical of me to allocate funds when I don’t have the future information. But I certainly hope we will be able to do so.
Edwin Quarles: If elected I will fully support public funding of arts, science, and history programs because those components will make my town to be attractive and appealing to other who will want to visit, which will bring in more outside revenue.
Jamie L. Wideman: I am supportive of public funding for programs, however I also believe there is a world of possibility in the realm of public/private partnerships.
ASC did not receive survey responses from the candidates below. (Candidates with an asterisk did not have campaign contact information available from the Board of Elections or were unable to be reached at the phone number or email address provided.)
Mike DeVoney
Michael Gandino
Matt Jones
Rob Kidwell
Justin William Moore
John O’Neill
LaToya C. Rivers
Eric Rowell
Anna Rubin
Nick Walsh