Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, April 28, 1994 TAG: 9404280109
SECTION: NEIGHBORS PAGE: E-7 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: NANCY BELL STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Davis, 56, has been campaigning aggressively, visiting approximately 90 percent of Vinton's voters. This election, he said, has given him greater opportunities to talk with and meet the citizens of Vinton.
"I'm a real people person," said Davis. "I have been in many homes and asked a lot of questions."
Davis, a bank manager and vice president, said experience is the key issue in this election.
Davis and Roy McCarty, the incumbents, have more than 20 years combined experience on council.
"I am beyond the point of asking a lot of questions before making a decision. With the types of issues facing Vinton now, there isn't time for rehashing a lot of things. Experience must remain a key factor."
Davis said he thinks he's done a good job of representing the people of Vinton. "People know where I stand on the issues. They know I want what is best for the town."
Davis said he thinks voters will support him because of his financial expertise and track record on council.
"I think we have a good mix on council now. But I am willing to work with anyone who is elected," he said.
Annexation is clearly the biggest issue facing Vinton, and Davis wants to be on council when the issue is decided. Council is waiting for a consultant's report of the feasibility of annexing a portion of Roanoke County into the town. It will be up to the new council to decide whether to initiate annexation proceedings based on the report.
"I will not vote on anything that the residents of Vinton must subsidize with their tax dollars," he said, adding he believes his expertise could help guide council through this difficult decision.
Davis moved to Vinton in 1965 and thinks of himself as a self-made man. He used to pump gas in the afternoon after school. He served in the U.S. Navy and later took banking courses while working in retail and raising a family.
He said the "trials and tribulations" of raising a family have helped him "develop patience and understanding in dealing with all kinds of situations that arise."
He is proudest of his role in the development of Vinton's recycling program, the first mandatory system in the state.
An avid golfer, Davis said he is in excellent health, with the ability and stamina to serve another term.
"I am optimistic about the town and the way it runs. I thoroughly enjoy people and the council process. I very much want to serve again."
\ NAME: Donald Lee "Don" Davis.
\ AGE: 56.
\ FAMILY: Married to Marlene Davis. Two children, one granddaughter.
\ EDUCATION: High school; completed banking courses at the University of Virginia
\ PROFESSION: Bank manager/vice president.
\ CIVIC ACTIVITIES: President, Vinton Dogwood Festival; president of Vinton Chamber of Commerce; board member, Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership; member, Vinton Association for Merchants and Professionals; state committee chairman for the Virginia Lions' Club.
Profiles on Bill Obenchain and Betty Sink, newcomers in the race and Bobby Altice, a former councilman who is seeking election, appeared in the last edition of Neighbors.
Keywords:
POLITICS
by CNB