Southern Pines Town Council Candidate Interviews -2025
The Pines Preservation Guild reached out the three candidates running for Southern Pines Town Council seats in the Nov 7, 2025 General Election.
Our organization believes it is important to understand how each candidate values the history and preservation of Southern Pines. These values signal how the candidate might view and vote on ordinances and city planning issues that directly impact the preservation of historic buildings and districts in Southern Pines.
The PPG has prepared a brief candidate survey with the following goals:
1-To educate our community about each candidate’s attitudes toward preservation
2-To allow candidates an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge of local preservation issues
3-To introduce candidates unfamiliar with The PPG to our organization
All candidates were sent our questions via email to respond to in writing. If a candidate’s name is not listed below, they either decided not to participate in the questionnaire or could not be reached.
Responses are provided in full, may be edited for clarity, and appear in order of response submission.
The publishing of these answers does not constitute an endorsement by The Pines Preservation Guild nor its officers.
Bob Curtain
Mr Curtain is one of three candidates running for Southern Pines Town Council
1.Please state your views on the role of historic preservation and our historic resources in the future of Southern Pines.
As a historian, a community college history professor, and someone who has spent years studying and teaching the lessons of our past, I believe historic preservation is central to the future of Southern Pines. Our historic buildings, neighborhoods, and cultural landmarks are not just remnants of the past—they are living resources that define our town’s unique charm, attract visitors, and strengthen community pride. Preserving these assets ensures that future generations can experience the same sense of place and character that drew so many of us to Southern Pines in the first place. At the same time, I see preservation as an investment: it supports our local economy, raises property values, and fosters thoughtful, balanced growth. My vision is to protect our historic identity while planning responsibly for the future—ensuring Southern Pines remains a vibrant small town rooted in its history but thriving in its opportunities.
2. What will be your top three priorities to ensure the preservation of Southern Pines’ historic buildings sites and neighborhoods?
Strengthen Protections and Standards – I will support the Historic District Commission and ensure our Local Historic District Overlay Zone has the resources and authority needed to preserve the character, architecture, and cultural identity of Southern Pines.
Secure Funding and Incentives – I will work to expand access to state and federal preservation grants, tax credits, and local incentives so that property owners have practical support for restoring and maintaining historic buildings.
Build Community Partnerships – I will collaborate with residents, nonprofits, and local organizations to promote historic preservation as both a cultural responsibility and an economic opportunity, ensuring that preservation benefits the entire community.
3. A 2010 survey update report of Southern Pines’s historic properties strongly recommended Southern Pines create and adopt a Historic Preservation Plan. Since then, one has not been created. Would you support the creation of a Historic Preservation Plan in Southern Pines?
Yes, I strongly support creating a Historic Preservation Plan for Southern Pines. It would provide clear guidance for protecting our historic buildings and neighborhoods while ensuring that growth respects our town’s unique character. I would work closely with residents, the Historic District Commission, and local organizations to develop a plan that balances preservation with sustainable, thoughtful growth.
4. Five buildings in West Southern Pines have recently been or are about to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As Councilmember, how will you support the historic preservation efforts of the West Southern Pines Community?
I believe that the historic buildings in West Southern Pines are more than landmarks - they are vital pieces of our town’s cultural identity and living testimony to the resilience and contributions of the African American community. As a Councilmember, I will work to protect historic buildings, secure funding for restoration, and ensure preservation efforts directly benefit local residents. Preserving the history of West Southern Pines is essential to honoring our community’s legacy. Together, we can safeguard our heritage while building a stronger future for Southern Pines.
5. What is your view on the role of Southern Pines’ Local Historic District Overlay Zone? Would you support the establishment of new local districts in the town or the expansion of the current Local District beyond its current 10-block boundary?
The Local Historic District Overlay Zone in Southern Pines plays a key role in protecting the town’s historic character. Its purpose is to ensure that changes to buildings, new construction, and demolitions within the district are reviewed for their compatibility with the historic fabric of the area. Through the Historic District Commission, the overlay zone guides design standards, preserves architectural integrity, and safeguards the cultural and economic value of historic neighborhoods. In short, it helps balance growth and modernization with the responsibility to protect the unique history and charm that define Southern Pines.
I believe the best plan for our town is to carefully consider expanding the current Local Historic District beyond its 10-block boundary rather than creating entirely new districts. Expanding the existing district provides consistency in design standards, oversight, and preservation practices under one established framework. It also avoids duplicating administrative structures while strengthening the overall historic identity of Southern Pines. Expansion ensures more properties with historic value are protected, while also leveraging the Certified Local Government (CLG) status more effectively for grant funding and technical support.
That said, any expansion should be done deliberately and with community input to balance property rights, economic development, and preservation. Listening to residents and ensuring they understand both the benefits and responsibilities of inclusion will be key to long-term success.
6. Southern Pines has a large National Register Historic District but a very small 10-block Local Historic District. This means many important residential historic properties are outside of the Southern Pines local historic district overlay zone, aren’t currently protected, and could be demolished if the owner wishes without any oversight or delay. What is your approach to making sure buildings important to our community’s heritage are protected?
My approach to protecting Southern Pines’ historic buildings starts with ensuring that town-owned and locally designated properties are maintained, preserved, and used in ways that honor their heritage. I will work closely with the Historic District Commission, local planners, and property owners to enforce design standards, provide guidance, and secure funding for maintenance and restoration. For buildings outside the 10-block Local Historic District or not owned by the town, I believe in a collaborative team approach. Efforts will include engaging owners, offering incentives such as tax credits or grants, and encouraging voluntary preservation through education and recognition programs. Preservation isn’t just about regulation; it’s about cultivating pride, awareness, and a shared sense of responsibility in the community to protect our history for future generations.
7. Southern Pines is a Certified Local Government, which means the Southern Pines Historic District Commission must have an active and legally adequate historic preservation commission and must meet the federal requirements for certification on an annual basis. In return, Southern Pines is eligible for matching grants from the state to assist with historic preservation programs and projects. How will you support the Historic District Commission in maintaining its CLG status?
As a Councilmember, I will fully support the Historic District Commission in maintaining its Certified Local Government (CLG) status, which is vital to ensuring access to preservation funding, technical expertise, and stronger partnerships with the State Historic Preservation Office. I will advocate for the town to provide the resources, staffing, and training necessary for the Commission to meet federal and state standards. Just as importantly, I will work to strengthen collaboration between the Commission, town leadership, and the community so that our preservation policies remain transparent, effective, and aligned with the values of Southern Pines. Supporting the Historic District Commission in this way not only protects our historic character but also ensures we are leveraging every available tool to preserve it for future generations.
8. Would you support the establishment of a town capital fund to pay for the preservation of historic public spaces and infrastructure (i.e. steps, alleys, certain streetscapes, bridges, walls, trees, fences, curbs, streets, etc….)? Why or why not? If so, what size fund would you recommend?
I support the creation of a dedicated Historic Preservation Capital Fund to help protect Southern Pines’ public spaces, historic buildings, and infrastructure. With our town’s population of roughly 14,000 residents, a fund in the range of $250,000 to $500,000—built incrementally over several years—could provide meaningful support without overburdening the budget. I envision a fund that combines annual town contributions with matching grants and private partnerships, and that allocates resources based on clear criteria such as historic significance, public access, and community benefit. This approach ensures both transparency and equity, so every neighborhood has a voice in preservation priorities while maximizing the impact of our investments.
9. Would you support the establishment of a historic preservation tax abatement? This could be a 10-15 year abatement to incentivize historic preservation anywhere in the town. Why or why not?
I support the careful use of tax abatements as a tool to encourage the preservation and restoration of historic buildings in Southern Pines. When applied thoughtfully, abatements can make preservation projects financially feasible, attract private investment, and protect the unique character of our town. At the same time, I would ensure that abatements are transparent, equitable, and tied to clear preservation outcomes—so that every dollar spent serves both our heritage and the broader community.
10. What is your favorite historic building (older than 1975) in Southern Pines and why?
My favorite historic building in Southern Pines has to be the Shaw House. Built around 1820, it’s one of the oldest surviving homes in Moore County and a reminder of the early settlers who helped shape this community. As a member of the Moore County Historical Association, I’ve had the honor and privilege to volunteer there many times, and every visit deepens my appreciation for its history. For me, the Shaw House is more than just a historic site; it’s a living symbol of our shared heritage and the traditions that make Southern Pines the place my family and I are proud to call home.
I must admit that I also enjoy visiting the Campbell House, the James Boyd House (Weymouth Center), and the Southern Pines Train Station.
Brandon Goodman
1. Please state your views on the role of historic preservation and our historic resources in the future of Southern Pines.
Historic preservation is vital. Downtown Southern Pines is the heart of what makes our town so unique. The 2040 Long Range Plan established the desire for unique characteristics that embody that area’s existing distinct qualities and design. To carry this out, districts with specific design requirements are being created. We are in the process of implementing these currently. This will establish a playbook to give guidance and suggestions for how spaces are reimagined and stay true to our roots.
2.What will be your top three priorities to ensure the preservation of Southern Pines’ historic buildings sites and neighborhoods?
First and foremost, historic buildings are preserved when they are occupied in a lively and successful community, so doing what we can to support downtown businesses is key. The vibrancy of downtown is intertwined with preserving neighborhoods. Secondly, I will continue to support West Southern Pines’ properties listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Thirdly, I will continue to support the planning department and the Historic District Commission’s efforts toward carrying out historic preservation-related goals.
3. A 2010 survey update report of Southern Pines’s historic properties strongly recommended Southern Pines create and adopt a Historic Preservation Plan. Since then, one has not been created. Would you support the creation of a Historic Preservation Plan in Southern Pines?
Yes.
4. Five buildings in West Southern Pines have recently been or are about to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As Councilmember, how will you support the historic preservation efforts of the West Southern Pines Community?
I already have supported this initiative from the dais and will continue to do so.
5. What is your view on the role of Southern Pines’ local historic district? Would you support the expansion of the existing district or the establishment of new historic preservation districts in the town? If so, would there be any criteria or limits on the number or type of new districts?
Yes, I’m potentially supportive of expansion and/or the creation of additional districts.
6. Southern Pines has a large National Register Historic District but a very small 10- block Local Historic District. This means many important residential historic properties are outside of the Southern Pines local historic district overlay zone, aren't currently protected, and could be demolished if the owner wishes without any oversight or delay. What is your approach to making sure buildings important to our community's heritage are protected?
It is my understanding that a local government cannot stop a demolition, only delay it for a year in order to find a buyer to preserve it. I would not be opposed to an expansion of the district or additional districts by building consensus. I’m also open to considering designating local landmarks to give select historic properties a major tax incentive to be preserved.
7. Southern Pines is a Certified Local Government, which means the Historic District Commission must have an active and legally adequate historic preservation commission and must meet the federal requirements for certification on an annual basis. In return, Southern Pines is eligible for matching grants from the state to assist with historic preservation programs and projects. How will you support the Historic District Commission in maintaining its CLG status?
I will continue to support budgeting that allows for those serving on the board to attend continuing education requirements to keep the CLG status.
8. Would you support the establishment of a town capital fund to pay for the preservation of historic public spaces and infrastructure (i.e. steps, alleys, certain streetscapes, bridges, walls, trees, fences, curbs, streets, etc….)? Why or why not? If so, what size fund would you recommend?
Yes, I am open to the idea. As far as the size of the fund, it would have to be considered relative to the given budget and likely start small with a trial to see what true costs are and how successful it is.
9. Would you support the establishment of a historic preservation tax abatement? This could be a 10-15 year abatement to incentivize historic preservation anywhere in the town. Why or why not?
Yes, similar to my answer above, but it would need to be limited with specific criteria on what is eligible and also cap the # granted/year.
10. What is your favorite historic building (older than 1975) in Southern Pines and why?
The blue/green shake building at the corner of Pennsylvania and Broad has always been a favorite as well as the Arcade building on NW Broad.
