FUQUAY-VARINA, N.C. — A new public works director, town manager and police chief all joined the staff at Fuquay-Varina this year after a couple of rough years for the town.

In 2003, two police officers resigned when they were accused of ransacking a suspect's car. A police officer sued the town for discrimination and the police chief retired.

In June 2004, the town manager resigned because of unspecified legal claims against him. Last summer, two of the town's three trash trucks broke down delaying trash pick-up.

"Because we're new, we don't have to worry so much about the mistakes of the past except to learn from them and move forward," Town Manager Andy Hedrick said.

"You know the darkest hour is just before the dawn, and I believe the dawn is rising in Fuquay-Varina," Mayor John Byrne said.

Byrne said the town is getting a fresh start.

"Our challenge was to match up the right people for our community," he said.

One of the biggest challenges for the town is growth. Fuquay-Varina serves an area that is the third-largest in Wake County, behind Cary and Raleigh.

"There's a lot to be said for the response rate we're trying to prepare for," said Van Dowty, public works director.

"From a community standpoint, we are interested at the police department, are interested in having a positive relationship with the business community and the citizens who live and work here," said Police Chief Larry Smith.

The three new hires have been on the job a combined total of 3½ months. However, they bring a total of 73 years of professional experience to their positions.