Wishing Mayor Roberson Well — and Keeping Rocky Mount Strong

With Mayor Roberson’s announcement that he will seek a seat in Congress, I want to offer my congratulations and sincere best wishes. It takes vision, courage, and energy to step onto a larger stage, and Rocky Mount can be proud that one of its own is willing to answer that call.

Mayor Roberson’s leadership — with his business acumen, his ability to connect across sectors, and his success in courting major investment — has had a profound impact on our city’s revitalization. His presence has helped move Rocky Mount forward when it mattered most.

That is why his absence, even partial, is a real loss. His daily leadership has been a bridge between vision and action, and as he turns toward the demands of a congressional campaign, it is crucial that we recognize the need to shore up our city’s governance.

The work of revitalization, of public-private partnership, of visible, responsive leadership — these efforts cannot be allowed to stall. Rocky Mount’s momentum must not be taken for granted. While Sandy Robinson campaigns, let not the temptation to promote personal agendas increase and continued progress prevail.

I wish Mayor Roberson every success in his campaign and beyond. And I hope we, as a community, will honor his contributions not just with good wishes — but by ensuring that the city he has worked hard to strengthen continues to thrive every day he is away.

“The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die.” Edward M. “Ted” Kennedy (1980)