Malcolm Roach Sr., a candidate for the Smith River District seat on the Patrick County Board of Supervisors, discussed why he’s running, what he views as the county’s most important issues, and his legal trouble at a town hall meeting September 26 at Fairystone Church.
Roach will face Rick Swink in the election. Incumbent Doug Perry is not seeking reelection.
Roach said he decided to run for the position as he believes the county is in trouble.
“Last year at one of the meetings, the county auditor said we were $36 million in debt. Not too long ago, the county administration said we were $25 million in debt. The county is basically in a death cycle right now,” he said.
Roach said the county’s population has either decreased or flatlined from about 2010 to now.
“When the population decreases, that’s almost a guaranteed tax increase,” he said.
Believing residents are at a crossroads, Roach said it’s time for the people to decide what they want the county to look like.
“This is your county. The county doesn’t belong to the administration. They work for you. You sign their check. What do you want the county to look like,” he asked.
Since moving to the county, Roach said his taxes have doubled and believes they will increase due to the upcoming 2027 property reassessment.
However, he noted the board holds the power and authority to adjust the tax rate, so the reassessment doesn’t raise the taxes.
“The question is, will they do it,” he said.
Roach said he hasn’t seen any changes related to the county’s Economic Development Authority (EDA).
“I don’t see any new industry, I don’t see any retail stores, I don’t see any new whatever. Is it worth spending that kind of money for the results that we’re getting,” he asked.
Because of the lack of industry and a declining and aging population, Roach believes the administration needs to shrink and learn to live affordably.
“Our administration has to stop looking at what our neighbors have. We have to live within our budget,” he said.
While he lacks a magic wand to address every issue, Roach said if he is elected, he will watch where every penny of the county’s money is spent and ensure accountability. “I can do that much, but as one man, I can’t fix the problem. I need you.
“You own the county. You need to be involved in what happens here. If I’m behind that seat, you need to tell me what you want,” Roach said.
Regarding his January court date, Roach said his attorney has told him he believes Roach has nothing to worry about and justice will be served.
While he admires the fact that Swink is willing to run for an office to try and help, Roach said his supporters are part of “the group in Woolwine that’s fighting against the people of Patrick County.
“There is the issue that he hasn’t been here. He doesn’t know anything about Patrick County. He’s going to do what he’s told,” Roach said, adding that he wants “you to tell me what to do. I want you to tell me what you want.”
Roach plans to hold another town hall meeting on Friday, Oct. 24, from 6:30-8 p.m., at Fairystone Volunteer Fire Department.
