Local Politics

Raleigh councilwoman becomes first candidate for mayor

Raleigh City Councilwoman Nancy McFarlane has become the first candidate to announce a run for the office being vacated by Raleigh Mayor Charles Meeker.

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RALEIGH, N.C. — A Raleigh city council member has become the first candidate to announce a run for the office being vacated by Mayor Charles Meeker.

Councilwoman Nancy McFarlane announced her candidacy at a press conference Wednesday morning. 

"I have a vision for Raleigh as a true world-class city that provides choices as to how we live, work and play. But I want to make sure that we always retain the beauty and charm and sense of place that makes us Raleigh," she said.

McFarlane, who is seeking election as unaffiliated candidate, has served on the City Council since 2007. She is a pharmacist and president of Med Pro Rx, a specialty pharmacy focusing on chronic illnesses.

She touted her work to protect the quality of life and environment in Raleigh as a member of the City Council's comprehensive planning and budget and economic development committees.

She has lived in north Raleigh since 1984, is married and has two daughters and a son.

Randy Stagner, a retired U.S. Army colonel, announced Wednesday that he will run for McFarlane's seat as an unaffiliated candidate.

The election will be held Oct. 11.

Meeker announced Tuesday that he would't seek a sixth two-year term. He plants to work full-time at the law firm where he is a partner.

First elected in 2001, Meeker's five terms tie him with the late Avery Upchurch as one of Raleigh’s longest-serving mayors. Upchurch served the city from 1983 to 1993.

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