Angela Ross, 54, a lifelong Greensboro resident, is on the ballot for City Council’s open seat left by Tony Rowland’s sudden departure.
Ross is new to entering city politics but feels uniquely qualified to be voted in by the residents of Greene County this November. She is currently a public housing occupancy specialist with the city of Greensboro’s Housing Authority. A graduate of Greene County High School, Ross obtained an associate degree in accounting from nearby Athens Technical Institute.
“I love my home city,” she said. “I always felt there could be a positive change. Greensboro is a friendly town, and there are many opportunities here.”
Ross believes that being a woman is advantageous as only one other woman sits on the council, Cynthia Rivers. She believes it will help balance the way decisions are made and give additional perspectives beyond the majority of male votes.
Ross, a grandmother, feels her grandchildren face similar issues that she experienced. In turn, she claims it inspires her to work for positive change and growth in the community. She wants her grandchildren to know that she is a willing voice for them as well as a voice for all residents of Greensboro.
“Some of the areas I hope to see growth include more options for dining, shopping, entertainment and recreation,” she said. “All of this complements a city. Greensboro has much going for it.”
Ross, a movie and inspirational book enthusiast, enjoys traveling when her busy schedule permits. She has had an opportunity to see other small communities in the state and appreciates the work that goes into city and resident input and the positive development and changes that can happen.
“My other outside interests include helping people,” she said. “I am very active volunteering with the local food pantry to help deliver food, wood or other essentials to families in need. I also assist with delivering Thanksgiving baskets to elderly residents in the community.”
Part of the vision she sees for Greensboro includes building a shopping plaza where nearby residents can purchase groceries, household items and other day-to-day essentials.
“If residents need shoes, uniforms, socks or other apparel, it should not require venturing to a neighboring town,” she said. “We should make every effort to keep the revenue of the everyday working citizens in our city. Additionally, I believe that we need to work diligently to convince industries to come to our city and bring jobs for those to make a viable income. I know it doesn’t happen overnight, but I feel a plan needs to develop to help see that these goals come to fruition.”
The election for the open seat will be on Nov. 8.