Calling Out "Nepotism Charade"
Resident tells Commissioners nepotism policy unfairly targets her while not addressing other conflicts of interest
The following statement was submitted by Dr. Elin Claggett of Providence, NC as Public Comment to the Caswell County Board of Commissioners, March 16, 2026
On February 25, the Caswell Co. Sherifff’s Office had blocked me as a Commissioner candidate & Co. Claggett from their social media page. I understand that’s unconstitutional. Did you block any other candidate? When confronted, Sheriff Durden immediately rectified this infringment. What County employee implemented this targeted decision & why?
In the past, I served on the Caswell Board of Health amicably with Co. Nate Hall & Rick McVey. I have 40+ years as a health care provider & doctorate in Public Health Adminstration. In 2016, I was appointed by the Board of Health as interim Health Director. My experience could help as budget reconciliation & revenue errors continue. However, Co. Claggett was appointed last year. Thus, your Nepotism policy prohibits me from applying. To date, this policy is only applicable to one resident, one volunteer, in Caswell - myself. This restriction weakens the county, but does not weaken me. Again, who made the motion to create this Nepotism Policy for volunteers?
Inversely, this Nepotism charade would prohibit Co. Claggett from being on the Regional Economic Development Commission which he regularly attends - should the current commissioner resign. Why? Because I serve as an EDC County Representative. Last year, one commissioner convinced the Chair to appoint him to the EDC when another commissioner missed a couple meetings due to medical problems. This has never happened to any other board member. Who initiated this decision?
Speaking of conflict of interest . . . in FY2026, the majority of the commissioners who voted for this nepotism policy & tax increases also approved salary increases for themselves and/or family members as county or school employees. You contracted with a Danville resident who previously brokered a deal for a sitting commissioner. As Economic Developer (pd. $125/hr.), he has produced little other than recommendations of focused spending on property near Quality Construction’s project in Pelham.
Meanwhile, you’ve gone through 6 managers in 3 years. The FY2025 budget audit was due Feb. 12th and the general funds balance dates to June 30, 2024. Personal agendas & fears of a few appear to trump priorities of getting Caswell moving forward. The solution is accountability, transparency and integrity.
-Submitted by Dr. Elin Claggett of Providence, NC
