By Patrick Hurston
Moorefield will hold its municipal General Election on June 10, 2025. Among those on the ballot are seven candidates vying for two Town Council seats. This is the seventh and final in a series of conversations with all the candidates, each of whom was given the same set of questions, and the same deadline in which to respond. Candidates were asked to keep their responses to 3-5 sentences.
Moorefield Examiner (ME): Please provide a brief personal statement about your candidacy, priorities and vision for the Town of Moorefield.
Carol Zuber: I have served the citizens of Moorefield for the last 16 years. First, as a member of council and most recently as the Mayor. During my four terms in office, I have been instrumental in many changes. In 2009, Moorefield opened the doors to our new regional wastewater plant. 2020 brought us the completion of a new state of the art water filtration and distribution plant. In 2023, focus was put toward changes in town policies to make rental units a safe place to live and to cleanup our town. My priorities are to continue to make Moorefield a great place to live. The pride that I have for this town is what helped me develop the Celebrate Moorefield committee. The beautiful flower planters, street banners, farmers markets, food truck events and downtown entertainment encourage people to shop local. I would like to see Moorefield as a destination town instead of a drive through.
ME: What initiative, program, project, or issue (infrastructure, public safety/services, economic development, etc.) would you spearhead if elected?
Zuber: There are several projects that need our attention. For the safety of our citizens, priority should be given to the construction of sidewalks and crosswalks. Main street is very narrow and can be dangerous. Working with downtown businesses and the Department of Highways to remedy traffic problems should remain in focus. I’m a firm believer that dollars spent for our children are an investment to the town’s future. Priority needs to remain on purchasing additional land for further expansion of our town park. It is my hopes to offer free family activities year-round to our citizens such as our most recent addition of the ice-skating rink. I would like to continue to support the Hardy County Humane Society. The Town also needs to work hand in hand with the Hardy County Chamber and the Rural Development Authority to bring commerce to our area. A passion of mine is to preserve the historic and natural beauty of Moorefield. It’s important to work with the Hardy County Convention and Visitors Bureau to “sell” our town as a vacation destination.
ME: Given recent controversies involving the Moorefield Police Department, how would you work to enhance transparency and accountability in town government and strengthen public trust in the Council and local law enforcement?
Zuber: As Council we need to be more involved with the recruitment and training of qualified applicants. A strong police force is a must. It is our duty as elected officials to provide police protection 24/7 to our citizens. The Moorefield Town Council meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month. I would like to encourage you to attend meetings and become active on commissions so that your voice is heard.
ME: What do you believe is the most pressing issue facing Moorefield and its residents and how do you plan to address it if elected?
Zuber: I believe housing is a major issue. At this time, several apartment buildings are under construction. Moorefield is growing. Another very important duty of Council is to maintain the safety of its residents through regular inspections of the levy, making sure it passes all certifications to protect our Town from flooding. Working closely with levy engineers encourages me that our downtown businesses and residents are safe. Housing and safety should be the Council’s priority.
ME: The Council just finished its budgeting for FY 2025/26. How would you prioritize budgeting and balancing public safety needs with other municipal responsibilities such as cultural and recreational activities; public works and infrastructure; and economic development?
Zuber: Budgeting has become easier over the years due to the Council adopting a one percent tax on items purchased within town limits. We have been able to offer competitive salaries, so some of the best employees can be hired. At budget, the Council asks each department to list items that are needed. We have supported the McCoy Theater, MHS DECA students, Music in Schools, Moorefield Little League and the MHS Athletic Boosters. The Council also budgets money for the Senior Center, Hardy County Wellness Center, the Hardy County Health Department, the Moorefield Lions Club, West Hardy Ambulance Authority, the Moorefield Volunteer Fire Department and Olivet Cemetery. This is just a few organizations that we donate to help with programs that enhance safety, wellness and cultural activities.
