Maphis M. Oswald is a candidate for Onancock Town Council. Her name will appear on the ballot on November 5, 2024.
Oswald is running against five challengers for Onancock Town Council.
The first day of in-person early voting at your local registrar’s office for this election is Friday, Sept. 20, 2024. Click here to see who is on your ballot.
10 On Your Side reached out to all of the candidates running in this race, with a request for a bio and a list of questions to answer. If you do not see the candidate listed with a profile, we did not receive one.
Name: Maphis Oswald
Age: 77
Biography: Born, raised and educated in New Jersey. I’m a mom and grandmother. I’ve worked for companies in NY and CA in marketing, advertising and sales. Retired to VA with my husband, operated a B&B for 6+ years, opened an art gallery, performed at the local live theater and have enjoyed promoting Christmas in Onancock as Mrs. Claus.
Why are you running for this office?
I am fully invested in Onancock having lived here with my husband Ed 30 years, we have owned businesses in town and served as willing volunteers wherever needed. Having served several terms on Town Council and now as Vice Mayor, I have been immersed in all aspects of Town government. I am a founding member and past president of the Onancock Business and Civic Association. I manage a business in the heart of town which helps me gauge residential as well as tourists needs and opinions, also allowing me to be readily available to both. My allegiance is to the people of this town, my experience says I am capable serving them honestly with intelligence, and integrity.
What is your view on growth management in your community?
We are a small town with limited areas available for growth. We have made great strides in being business friendly thereby inviting growth in that sector. Telecommuting has opened us up to attracting younger families who can raise their children is this wonderful environment, so we are aware of the need for affordable housing especially for that group as well as our aging population’s downsizing desires. We are fortunate to have a water and sewer system in place poised for planned growth.
What is your view on taking money from individuals who will likely have business before the city?
Plain and simply, unethical.
How will you still value constituents with whom you disagree?
I value those I may disagree with as much as anyone else because we are thinking individuals entitled to our passions and opinions. But we are also neighbors and part of a shared society that stands up for the rights of all.