Fowler files to run for Bennettsville mayor

BENNETTSVILLE—Political newcomer, Leith Fowler has thrown his hat into the ring to become Bennettsville’s mayor.

Monday when filing for the municipal elections opened, Fowler, along with current Bennettsville mayor, Carolyn A. Prince, were the first two to file for the seat.

Fowler, 60, has never run for office before, but is a lifelong resident of Bennettsville. He said his purpose for seeking the office is because he’s seen downtown Bennettsville go downhill.

“We’ve got to do something to attract businesses,” he said, adding that the city needs to have amenities that will entice visitors who pass through the area to stop and spend money in the city.

“We used to have a lot of pride in Bennettsville and it seems to have [gone] away. We’ve lost a lot of businesses, we have a lot of buildings that are going to need a lot of work to save them. I drive through town every night and look and there’s just no shine to it anymore,” Fowler said.

In a statement he released on Facebook to announce his campaign, Fowler stated how much he loved the town and wants to make a positive difference here.

“Like many others, I’ve become concerned about the lack of positive community involvement and the apathy among citizens, which leads to a negative public image of our town. And I think it’s time for new leadership who will look for new solutions for many of our persistent problems. My goals will include bringing people together from all segments of our community with improved communication and cooperation.”

Fowler said he believes he will do a good job as mayor because he’s able and willing to work with everyone to make Bennettsville better.

“I’ve never been in politics and I don’t know what I’m up against,” he said. But Fowler said if elected, he pledges to work with all city officials to insure a positive work environment for all city employees.

Though Fowler has never been involved in politics, he has worked in the community.

Fowler is a member of First Methodist Church, where he serves as chairman of the finance committee, a board member of the non-profit Community Kitchen of Bennettsville, an active roll in the Marlboro Historical Society, the Marlboro Players, the Marlboro Arts Council and the Bennettsville Rotary Club.

“I’ve been kicking around getting involved and I just had people ask,” Fowler said. “And I said it was time for me to try and make things happen.”

Fowler said he decided that if things are going to improve in Bennettsville, “folks need to be willing to step up and make a positive difference.”

Filing for available seats in Bennettsville, Clio and McColl end at 12 p.m. on Sept. 8 and the municipal general election will be held on Nov. 7.