Two new women seek treasurer spot

by Lauren McDowell
Staff Writer

Party platforms aside, both candidates for November's city treasurer election take similar stances.

Democrat Mary Ann McClure and Republican Stephanie Goldsberry, both running for the first time, have big plans regarding technology and connecting with the community. Current treasurer Bill Bias is not seeking re-election.

McClure holds certification in software training and said she would like to update the computer programs and systems.

Goldsberry also put technology at the forefront and said she would like to see the fund transfer process put online immediately.

The time it takes to make these changes is not an issue, Goldsberry said. She started working part-time in real estate, a field with extremely flexible hours, but said she still wants a full plate.

"I'm not old enough yet to not be working," Goldsberry said.

Despite the time commitment of owning and working full-time at MS Accounting and Taxes Inc, McClure said she has plenty of time for both jobs.

"It seems like I've always had more than one thing going on at once," McClure said.

McClure and Goldsberry both said they feel connecting with the community is another important part of the treasurer position.

Along with long-standing community relations, both women said they have what it takes to get the job done.

Between her 20 years of service in accounting and her familiarity with reports, McClure said she was ready for the job.

"I like looking at the world through numbers," McClure said.

A love of problem solving and challenges are two qualities that contribute to her qualifications, Goldsberry said.

"All things in life are not problems to me, they are challenges," Goldsberry said.

Time and patience are two important qualities for the next treasurer, Bias said.

"I've done what I could there," Bias said.

Similarities between these two candidates do not stop on the campaign trail. They are also neighbors, but both said they will remain friends.

"There is not too much mudslinging in these local elections," McClure said.

"We're not out to duke it out," Goldsberry said. "It's a friendly match."