About Pat

US Army 1970 to 1973.  Vietnam Service Medal and Army Commendation Metal
Public School Teacher with 6 years of experience
University Professor and Administrator for 24 years.  Developed several academic programs and secured funding for facilities.North Carolina Magistrate 10 years
I have been the owner and operator of Taylor Pottery for twenty-one years. Products are sold on Main Street.* I have had an unblemished professional career. There have been no lawsuits or accusations of wrongdoing. Now, some may fairly say I have made mistakes, but I have never been dismissed or fired from a position. I was one of the longest-serving department chairs in the history of Kennesaw State University. 

Leadership Style and Philosophy:I learned in the military to stand up, step forward, and always faithfully do my duty. That principle guides me in executing the duties of mayor.  I applied that principle, especially in our community’s battle against COVID-19. Working in concert with the town board, we had to make difficult emergency decisions.  Some of those decisions may not have been well received by the public, but the action had to be taken, although information was limited at the time. As we moved through the pandemic, I knew I had to be on continuous duty, set an example for the community, and keep everyone constantly informed as best I could.
From my many years as a teacher and educator, I have learned to model appropriate behavior and set an example for others to follow. As in the military, as a teacher, I never expected young people to do something I hadn’t done or was unwilling to do myself. I enlist and surround myself with the best, the most talented professionals. I let them do their work and shine without micromanaging each person and action.  My leadership mission is to get all stakeholders in the organization to work as a unit to achieve the best outcomes and goals.  I support professional staff, expect their best performance, and will hold them accountable when performance outcomes fall short.  Also, as the highest elected official of the town, I will take full responsibility when goals and expectations are not met and give full credit to staff members who generate successful results.

Community Involvement; Rotarian for 15 years.
First potter in residence at the Bascom. Volunteered and worked to make the residency a paid position. Served on the board and was a mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters for 10 years. Served on the board and volunteer for the Highlands Greenway for 10 years.Served on the Fidelia Eckerd Board for 2 years.Member of the American Legion Post 370.An active member of the North Carolina League of Municipalities.  Served on several committeesActive member of the Southwestern Regional Planning Commission. The current chair of the Transportation Advisory Committee.Member of the North Carolina Mayors Association.