CARRSVILLE
Isle of Wight County Supervisors and board chairman Rex Alphin recently confirmed his decision not to see reelection when his term ends this year. The Carrsville representative need not worry if there’ll be anyone willing to fill his shoes; already a candidate, Phil Bradshaw has made his intention known.

“It is with mixed emotions I announce my intention to not seek re-election after my term expires in 2017,” Alphin wrote to The Tidewater News. “I am announcing early so as to give potential candidates ample time to make their decision before the June filing deadline.”

He continued, “Serving the Carrsville district has been an honor and a privilege. Its rural nature and sense of community have suited me well, as therein lie my roots. The relationships this position have fostered have been uniquely rewarding, from working with citizens resolving often difficult issues to working with fellow board members toward both preserving and maintaining the distinct cultural heritage Isle of Wight County offers. 

“During my tenure, I have had the honor of working with 10 different fellow supervisors and four different county administrators. I have been afforded the opportunity to get to know our great county staff, our constitutional officers, our law enforcement, our fire and rescue teams and the imaginative leaders of our educational system. In a broader sense, I have had the privilege of forming relationships with the mayors and city council members of our surrounding Hampton Roads localities, delegates and senators that represent us at the state level and those that keep the citizenry informed through the media. This network has been broad, deep, enriching and humbling. I have enjoyed much, learned immensely, and, frankly, made my fair share of mistakes.

“I shall endeavor in this last year to make the transition of my role to another as smoothly as possible.  I firmly believe this county is headed in an excellent direction, both philosophically and fiscally. Should anyone be interested in fulfilling this role and desirous of knowing its implications, I am more than available. It is a great opportunity to serve a great, grand place.”

Bradshaw, who’s already had experience on both the board and county school system, wrote in the following:

“They say that we come full circle in our life’s journey. Like most of the citizens in the county, I was impacted by economic hard times and found myself unemployed on three separate occasions. It was because of these circumstances that I resigned from the Board of Supervisors having served for 17 years. During that time I experienced many personal difficulties; one of my daughters suffered a brain injury and the daily trials of raising another daughter with special needs. Through God’s grace we celebrated the birth of two grandchildren and I secured wonderful employment with Thomas Nelson Community College. We survived these years through our faith, and with the support of our family and friends.

“On this journey I learned that everyone has a story, and needs someone to listen. With that in mind, I have been asked to run for the Board of Supervisors of this great County of Isle of Wight. In so doing I do not promise to make decisions without error, but with heart and an earnest endeavor to serve the people. It is my desire to hear your stories and be a voice for the citizens of Isle of Wight County. I announce my candidacy for Isle of Wight County Board of Supervisors for the Carrsville District and humbly ask for your support.