Roanoke attorney Ray Ferris has made it official, announcing his intention to seek one of three Democrat Party slots for City Council in a primary on March 2. There are four candidates in all, including incumbent council member David Trinkle, Bill Bestpitch and Valerie Garner. The general election is May 4.
Ferris, a native Roanoker, went to law school at the University of Richmond after graduating from Roanoke College. He worked in various family businesses and taught math at Patrick Henry High School before focusing on his law career. Ferris, a former Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney for Roanoke City, is now a partner in the firm of Ferris, Eakin & Thomas.
The married father of three touted his “outgoing, decisive personality” as an asset for his candidacy. “This is the first time I’ve run for office,” said Ferris. “I believe the council could use some leadership and good common business sense. I believe I have something to offer.” He also wants to “maintain the upward course of the schools, to ensure that adequate funding is there.” A well-educated workforce helps keep Roanoke in the mix when businesses look to expand, said Ferris.
He is also against imposing any storm water management fee, as City Council discussed on Tuesday: “Now is not the time.” Ferris said storm water should be a regional issue in any case.
Ferris noted that the early response to his campaign has been “encouraging.” He has no particular bone to pick with the current council makeup (Rupert Cutler and Gwen Mason are not seeking reelection) but spoke of the “immense” challenges faced by the city, “given the current economic times.”
By Gene Marrano [email protected]
