Warsaw mayor-elect pledges community-focused leadership

WARSAW — Mayor-elect Wesley Boykin announced plans to strengthen transparency, community engagement, and accountability in Warsaw’s town government as he prepares to take office on Dec. 8.

During his initial transition meeting, Boykin identified significant areas for improvement, including the absence of a formal plan for leadership transitions.

“It’s unimaginable to think that there will be good sound operations of the town if there’s absolutely no transition plan,” Boykin said, describing the current practice of allowing new commissioners and mayors to “learn as they go” as “totally unacceptable.” He also noted gaps in administrative structure and oversight, including unclear departmental responsibilities and an organizational hierarchy in which the town manager has functioned as the top authority. “And that is not the way it should be. And it would be something that would change,” Boykin said.

To address these challenges, Boykin plans to propose a management plan to the board as a strategic vision for Warsaw. The plan will guide staff in setting goals, priorities, and performance standards. He hopes to implement formal performance reviews linked to clear job descriptions to ensure accountability and professionalism.

Boykin emphasized that public input will play a critical role, particularly in budget development, infrastructure decisions, and long-term planning. He plans to hold weekly listening sessions to hear directly from residents and introduce a 24/7 “Mayor’s Feedback Box” on the town website to provide ongoing access to governance. He also wants to modernize town communications by providing official email addresses and government-issued devices, noting that everyone uses their personal email, phone, and computers for government business, which often leaves with them when they depart, creating both organizational and legal risks.

Boykin plans to reinstate community advisory groups to ensure residents have a voice in decision-making.

“Citizen involvement is a win-win situation. Now, can it get ugly? Yes, it can. But that’s where the expertise and the competence of staff and the governance body come into play,” he said.

Fiscal accountability is another priority. Boykin highlighted concerns over budget amendments made before official enactment and stressed the importance of accurate record-keeping and compliance with state statutes.

Despite the challenges, Boykin said he is energized and ready to lead.

“I’m exhilarated — I’m in high-charge mode and feeling a great sense of joy,” he told Duplin Journal. “It’s going to be a challenge. But by the same token, I have met and overcome big challenges in my career, and I’m excited to be able to do what seemingly is going to be a good thing for the town in which I was born. So I’m excited.”

Boykin also emphasized a hands-on, grounded approach to leadership. “I’m outside picking up pecans,” he said, underscoring his commitment to staying connected with the community while preparing for office.

“This is about the people of Warsaw,” Boykin said. “I’m here to listen, to learn, and to lead with transparency and accountability.”