Bladen commissioner: Chairman, Britt, seeking reelection to board

Ray Britt is seeking reelection as one of five candidates for three countywide at-large seats on the Bladen County Board of Commissioners.

The term is for four years. Britt is a Republican.

Britt, 65, is the owner and operator of Ray’s in downtown Elizabethtown.

He won election to the board in 2016 and has twice served as its chairman, including this year.

“I’ve tried to represent all people fair and equal as a countywide commissioner,” Britt said. “Whether you voted for me, or you didn’t, I realize I’m countywide and represent every voter. I’ve tried to represent and vote for what was needed by the people. I’m just a servant to the people, a steward of the people. The tax dollars belong to the people, and I realize that we’re elected just to see that their tax dollar is spent fair and wisely. I honestly try to do the best I can and not be biased. I don’t look at the party situation, I look at what I think is best for the people. I look at life simple, and what should be good enough for me and my family should be good enough for everybody else’s family.”

Among the issues he’s campaigning on, Britt said, “We have a great opportunity to expand our opportunity for more industry. And even though industry is important, it’s important for me to hopefully help get industry that pays a much better pay scale. In other words, let’s not just go after 10- and 12-dollar an hour. We need jobs that pay a better wage.”

Britt said drawing industry is one element, but he also wants that industry to bring people that will live in the county.

“It means,” he said, “having more things for our youth to do, encouraging the school system and aiding them any way possible, to help in a way that will be more attractive to the person considering coming to our area. And last but not least, more housing.”