Candidate Biography (submitted by candidate):

My name is Sondra Ipock Riggs. My husband Dennis and I are retired farmers. We live on Riggstown Road near Pollocksville. We have two sons Rodney and Randy. Rodney and Elizabeth D. Riggs have two daughters, Ashley and Kimberly and a son Stephen. Our youngest, Randy and Sandi B. Riggs have two daughters, Lauryn and Kristen.  Our children and grandchildren are a joy and a blessing from God.

Over the years in addition to farming, I worked with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, was a substitute teacher and volunteer with Jones County Schools.  I authored Jones County History published 1992.  I have many interests in Jones County, such as the Jones County Committee of 100, Jones County Cooperative Extension Homemakers, Jones County Hunter's Association, Jones County Arts Council, Jones Historical Society, and Jones County Relay for Life.  I participated in Dancing Like the Stars to encourage the public to support the Jones County Association of Educational Office Professionals scholarship fund for students of the Jones County Education System.

Memberships and Appointments:

Jones County Commissioner Vice Chairmen - 1994 to present
Jones County Nursing and Adult Care Advisor Committee 1995 to present - Chairpersson
Eastern Carolina Council of Governments - 1995 to present
Executive Board Officer and Chairperson
Coastal Community Action, Inc. - 2007 to present
Disaster Planning Committee - 2005 to present
Jones County Emergency Medical Services Board - 1995 to present - Chairperson
Jones County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association - to present
North Carolina Beaver Control - 2000 to present
Southeastern Reg. Agricultural Committee - 1999 to present
North Carolina Farm Workers Council appointed by Governor Martin Governor Hunt
Jones County Health Board - 9 years
Neuse River Basin Executive Board - 1995 to 2004
Census 2000 Coordinator

Your support and vote in the November 2, 2010 General Election are vital to allow me to serve again as your Jones County Commissioner.

Whether an issue is popular or not, when it's best for the citizens of Jones County, I will continue to work for you and our County's best interest. 

My best wishes for progress, prosperity, and security in Jones County have taken concrete form during the many hours of unselfish efforts ranging from critical observation to civic activism.  Along with many others, I have spoken for and against activities, and have made a difference in Jones County.

It is important that the citizens of Jones County recognize the work and good management that has been accomplished by their past and present county commissioners with the dedicated help of our fine county employees and volunteers.  Jones County with a population of less than 11,000 is one of the largest rural counties.  In order to make any significant improvements, we must be able to get new grants to help us with the high cost of new projects.  Currently, we are working to encourage a new business that produces biodegradable fuel for the military to locate a plant in Jones County.

Progress made over the last 15 years while serving:

• New Jones County Government Building with paved parking
• Countywide curbside trash carts
• Purchase of the old Lenoir Community College Jones County Branch to house E-911 communication, Emergency Management, and Emergency Medical Services
• New Industry Building
• New Building for Lenoir Community College Jones County Branch
• New Gymnasium for Jones Senior High School
• New Elevator, Handicap Bathrooms on each floor and Paved Handicap parking lot for Jones County Court House
• New Jail Facilities including three holding cells for women, a handicap cell, and a nurse