Ex-clerk Raper to lead Vina as new mayor

VINA — Longtime town clerk Sue Raper has been named mayor to replace Michael Moomaw, who decided not to seek re-election.

Raper, who served as clerk for 31 years before retiring in 2020, decided to qualify on the final day after learning Moomaw was not running.

After her only opposition, Alanis Epperson, withdrew, the town confirmed in a Facebook post on Monday that “an election is no longer required” and Raper was named mayor by default.

Raper said when she heard Moomaw wasn’t planning to seek another term, “I just felt like I needed to step in and see what I could do.”

“My previous mayor, D.W. Franklin, always told me I ought to run,” she added.

She emphasized the often-overlooked role of the town clerk, which she said has prepared her well for the role.

“I’ve helped the previous mayors, and I know the ropes. People don’t always realize how much a town clerk does,” she said. “Without a good town clerk, the mayor’s job would be impossible.”

She praised current Town Clerk Lisa Mason for her dedication and said she’s looking forward to working with her and the rest of the town council.

“We’ll just see what all we can get done and finish what Michael started.”

Raper said she’s keeping some goals close to the chest for now, but one priority is clear — economic development.

“We need business,” she said. “We need things to make our town stand out, so people will want to stay instead of moving away.”

She described Vina as peaceful and close-knit.

“They know me,” she said of the citizens. “They’ve dealt with me for 31 years. They know that I’m approachable.”

Raper remains active at Vina First Baptist Church and helps with the town’s annual festival, July Fest. Sheandherhusband,Gary, previously ran Vina Café, a now-closed restaurant. Before becoming clerk, she managed the Elliott Branch campground and operated a bait shop and float rental business.

She and Gary have two children, two granddaughters and two great-granddaughters.

Epperson withdraws

Epperson said her decision to withdraw from the race came after prayer and reflection.

“I just didn’t feel that it was God’s will for me,” she said. “I felt like Sue would do a great job.”

Epperson leads a youth group at Vina First Baptist Church. She said that ministry work is where she’s meant to be right now.

“It’s rewarding to see all the kids have that love for Jesus,” she said. “That’s where my efforts need to be.”

She said her passion for the community remains unchanged.

“I would love to support Sue in trying to get some grants and helping her find people that might want to come in for jobs,” she said. “I’d still love to be a part of that and help get some activities for the kids.”

Epperson, who grew up in Belgreen, moved to Vina after marrying a Vina native. She recalled the town’s overwhelming support after her family lost their home in a tornado shortly before her child was born.

“Even people I didn’t know showed up and started working, trying to get us moved in,” she said. “It’s special. It’s very special here.”

Moomaw reflects

Moomaw, who is completing his first term, set to end in November, said his decision not to seek re-election was guided by prayer.

“I just didn’t feel led to run this time,” he said. “Nothing against being the mayor. I’ve loved being mayor.”

He said the most meaningful part of the role was praying over the town and watching what God made possible.

“I don’t take credit for anything that I’ve done,” he said. “I give God credit for all things.”

During his term, Vina welcomed Dollar General and Vina RV. Grant funding also supported drainage work and waterline improvements.

Moomaw praised the collaboration between city leaders and said he was proud to support the Fire Department and infrastructure projects.

He expressed full confidence in Raper’s ability to lead.

“She knows as many people as I do on the federal, state and local levels,” he said. “Her love for the town is clear.”

He plans to continue working in the town’s Water and Gas Department and hopes to spend more time with his wife, Beth, their children and grandchildren.

“I hope I did a good job,” he said. “I’ve always tried to listen to the people, and I thank them for their support.”