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Charlotte County Supervisor Gary Walker stepped down from office on March 23. Three days later on Wednesday, March 26, the remaining board members heard from candidates who applied to fill that vacant Charlotte supervisor seat, asking questions and letting each explain why they’re running for the position. 

This decision, which is scheduled to be made during the board’s April 9 meeting, will be to fill the position on an interim basis, up until the general election on Nov. 4. Then a person will be elected to serve the rest of the term, which expires on Dec. 31, 2027.

And for that interim spot, there were two candidates who came before the board and spoke on March 26. Those were Brette Arbogast and Sherry Hudson-Tharpe. 

Sherry Tharpe presents to the board 

Mrs. Hudson-Tharpe was the first person to speak and give a speech, pointing out that she’s a lifelong resident of Charlotte County. 

“I have lived and worked in the county my entire life,” Tharpe said. “My husband, Curtis Michael Tharpe and I, have raised our three daughters here and are so fortunate that they have chosen to return back to Charlotte County after college graduation. As the owner of two businesses in Charlotte County, I understand the challenges and opportunities that local economies face. I am deeply invested in the well-being and the future of our community. Charlotte County is a wonderful place to live and work and I am eager to serve in this role, to contribute to the county’s growth and development, while preserving the many qualities that make it great.” 

She also outlined goals to focus on if chosen for the position.  

“My goals as a board member are to focus on job creation, explore economic development opportunities, and enhance the overall quality of life for all the residents,” Tharpe said. “I believe that my skills, my experience and leadership abilities would be valuable assets to the board. I would listen to my constituents and work hard to represent their best interests. I am a team player, but will stand up for what I feel is the best decision when needed. I am excellent in maintaining composure, listening purposefully and fairly considering diverse perspectives.” 

She closed by referencing a New Testament verse, Ephesians 5:2, which urges people to “And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” 

Brette Arbogast makes his case 

Brette Arbogast told the board he was surprised at the passion so many people in the community have for local government, after talking with so many people about this seat and his plans to apply. 

“The biggest question I have received is the perceived conflict of interest with my position with the schools,” Arbogast, who serves as Director of Operations for the Charlotte school district, said. “I do work for Charlotte County Public Schools and I love Charlotte County Public Schools. That’s no secret. I think our teachers and staff, what they do for our children, is unbelievable. However, I do too see the perception and would recuse myself from votes pertaining to the school budget. Is this required? No. But it’s the right thing to do. With this being said, I feel like I could be a resource for the board during the budget discussions. I believe in our citizens and each person’s voice should be heard, as you do.”

“As a longtime resident of Charlotte County 31 years, my journey in this community has been diverse,” he added. “I began as a science teacher, a computer science teacher at Randolph-Henry, I created and devised the technology plans for both Charlotte County and Appomattox County. That was while I was still in Charlotte County. And (I) started the cross country and wrestling teams. As the executive director of our school systems since 2019, I am experienced in budgets, planning, purchasing and working with others to achieve positive outcomes. My four years serving on the Charlotte County School Board and current Charlotte Court House Town Council has enhanced my knowledge of how public entities function.” 

Arbogast said in the past, he’s owned rental properties and businesses but currently, other than his role with the school district, he has no affiliation or commitments “with any group, faction or business venture, allowing me to serve with an impartiality and a deep commitment to the county’s well being.” 

Arbogast said he believes in pooling resources and working together to reduce expenses. He also believes in Charlotte County’s culture and values, which he called the foundation upon which we build our future. 

“I firmly believe any economic development initiatives should not only aim to increase tax revenue, but also align with the cultures and desires of our residents,” Arbogast said. “The county’s comprehensive plan addresses various topics, including land use, transportation, housing, economic development and resources, ensuring the growth be both sustainable and reflective of our community character. Another question people have asked over the last few weeks is why do you want to be on the board of supervisors. Simply put, I think I can help. I have no agenda to back and no other reason than this, I want to help.” 

Q & A for Charlotte supervisor candidates

Both candidates also answered questions from board members. Supervisor Hazel Bowman-Smith said when she ran for the board, she didn’t realize how time consuming the job was. She asked the candidates the same question she was asked as a candidate. What are you willing to give up to spend the time you need to spend on the county’s business? 

Tharpe said she feels like she’s at a point in her life where she can make the time commitment. 

“I worked in the public sector, in business for 23 years and now my husband and I own our own business so my schedule is very flexible,” Tharpe said. “I’m willing to put the time in.” 

Arbogast said he’s freed up time as he recently sold a business he owned. Aside from his work with the school district, it’s just him and his wife. 

“I have discussed it with her and she understands the time commitment,” Arbogast said. “I’m prepared for the time commitment.” 

Both were asked what they saw as the biggest responsibility facing the board. Arbogast said immediately he sees the issues with budget and reassessment, then working to find a new county administrator once Dan Witt retires this fall. Tharpe agreed that finding a new administrator was important, but she looked beyond the next few months. She told the board job creation was critical, “so we have something to draw people to this county and some type of economic development.” 

Both were asked if they could separate personal feelings from what constituents wanted and asked them to vote for. Each said they had no problem with that. Both were also asked to describe their strengths, what they would bring to the table. 

Tharpe said she’s had to deal with tight budgets and find ways of working with the resources you’ve got. 

“Private sectors have to watch their budgets closely,” Tharpe said. “You have to figure out how to make it work with the money you have.” 

Arbogast pointed to his experience working with the school district, also dealing with finances and finding partnerships. 

“We need to look at internal expenses,” Arbogast said. “We’re a small community, we need to start working together.” 

Charlotte supervisor decision coming up soon

County supervisors will take a vote and decide who will be the interim successor to Walker during their April 9 meeting.