Leading with dedication, purpose

Each week, Duplin Journal highlights a community member whose hard work and dedication represent the spirit of Duplin County. This week, Duplin Journal invited Angela Smith, Rose Hill town administrator and finance officer, for a Q&A session.

Smith began her career with the town of Rose Hill in 2001 as an administrative assistant and utility clerk. Eager to hone her skills and contribute to her community, she quickly immersed herself in municipal operations and pursued specialized courses offered by the School of Government and the North Carolina League of Municipalities (NCLM).

Her career took off as she advanced through the ranks, taking on senior roles that allowed her to directly impact the efficiency and effectiveness of the town’s financial operations. Nearly 24 years later, she continues to make an impact in local government.

As the town administrator and finance officer, Smith’s role is essential in the management, operation, and financial oversight of the town of Rose Hill. Her journey is living proof of how dedication, hard work, and perseverance can lead to great achievements.

In this Q&A, Smith shares insights into her journey in public service, her love for Duplin’s tight-knit communities, and the special things that make it a special place to live and work.

What inspired you to pursue a career in local government?

In 2001, after my youngest daughter was born, I knew it was time for me to return to work. A friend of mine informed me of a job opening at the Town of Rose Hill in the office. I applied, and here I am, almost 24 years later.

Can you share about your journey to becoming the town administrator and finance officer for Rose Hill?

I began in September of 2001 as an administrative assistant and utility clerk. Over the years, I took it upon myself to pay attention and observe and take advantage of educational opportunities to learn more about local government operations. I had experience in accounting already, but I did build on that with Rose Hill. I learned finance and budgeting. Not only hands-on, which is, in my opinion, one of the best ways to learn anything, but I did take courses over the years that the School of Government or NCLM would offer. I worked my way up from administrative assistant. Deputy tax collector and accounts payable were added to my experience. I was eventually promoted to accounting operations manager/town clerk and deputy finance officer. I received my clerk’s certification through the School of Government during that time. I remained in that position for over three years; then, the town administrator position became open when our former administrator, John Bauer, retired — who, by the way, was a wonderful mentor. I put my name in the hat. The board had enough faith in me to give me the opportunity. That was the latter part of 2022.

What projects are you currently working on, or what future initiatives are you excited about?

The town has several projects going on: Stormwater, lead line replacement, AIA study, fifth-year resurfacing, and CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization. All of these are grants the town currently has open. Not that stormwater isn’t super exciting (chuckle), but my favorite is the Neighborhood Revitalization Grant we received. This is serving low-income property owners in town that need help either restoring what they have or rebuilding what is not restorable and they can’t afford to do it themselves. We can’t help all that applied, but we can at least help four. This is what it is about — the citizens. I can also see the town applying for another in three years. Hopefully, we can help at least four more. On a side note, the board has been excellent to work with. Voters should be proud that this group of six people they chose to make important decisions for and represent the town are doing so with them in mind.

What advice would you give young women who aspire to lead in government or other career fields?

Be yourself. Don’t be too hard on yourself, either. Never say you can’t do anything. I am proof that hard work, motivation and the willingness to ask questions can move mountains. Dabble a little faith in there and you will succeed.

What role do residents and community organizations play in shaping the economic future of Rose Hill?

Their roles are essential. Providing a supportive environment for local businesses is crucial for businesses to thrive and boost the local economy. Both residents and community organizations do this. Residents that participate in community development can help improve infrastructure and create opportunities. Community organizations can help attract investment in the community by promoting our area’s strengths. They work hand-in-hand to promote Rose Hill so people can see it is a great place to live and work, yet still has that “hometown” feel.

Managing the town’s finances is a significant responsibility. Considering the economic challenges that many small towns face, what strategies do you employ to ensure that Rose Hill remains financially sustainable?

Keep track of investments. Follow policy and procedure for obligating and purchasing. Consistently monitoring revenue coming in versus expenses going out. Consistent routine equipment maintenance. Monitor utility rates to make sure the town is bringing in the revenue to accommodate current and future capital expenditures. Keep the property tax rate sustainable for the town’s general fund without it being too much of a burden on the taxpayer. There are so many different things that help keep the town economically stable. One of the most important is good internal control. Without those checks and balances in place it leaves the town vulnerable.

What do you do in your spare time?

Spend time with my grandchildren and my family. There is no better way to spend my time.

What was the last book you read?

The last book I finished was The Shack by William Young. Although it is taking me longer than it should, I am currently reading The Rising by Tim Lahaye/Jerry Jenkins.

Where’s your favorite place to eat in Duplin County?

I honestly do not have a favorite. But I am partial to the Rose Hill Restaurant. It is one of the few places locally to get good Southern comfort food.

What, in your opinion, is the best thing about Duplin County?

The people. We still have tight-knit communities. That is something that is becoming non-existent. Thank God Duplin County still has it.