Susan Cope
Stem Town Council
Empowered by GoodParty.org
About the Office
The City Legislature is the municipality's governing body, responsible for voting on ordinances and policies, and often is in charge of hiring a city manager.
Term Length
4 years
Election Date
Nov 4, 2025
About Me
Party
Other
Occupation
Attorney
Fun Fact
I am a mom of two. I love to do simple crafts and read in my spare time, especially mystery novels. I have been a huge fan of the genre since I was a kid watching Angela Lansbury in “Murder She Wrote”. I have recently discovered watercolor painting and that is what I am doing most evenings when I am not working or representing the citizens of Stem.
Past Experience
I have 8 years of experience on the local Board of Commissioners. I have served as Mayor Pro Tem for all 8 years. I have been instrumental in securing grant funding through the NC Department of Commerce for Downtown Revitalization. I am a graduate of the Rural Center’s Homegrown Leaders program in 2025. I am a graduate of the 2024 cohort of the Rural Community Capacity program through the NC Department of Commerce. I worked with the Main Street Planning office of the NC Department of Commerce to develop a Community Economic Development Plan for Stem. I led the project to revamp the Stem website to make it easier for both staff and residents to use and to be ADA accessible. I have organized and participated in the “Make Stem Sparkle” litter sweep campaign since its creation in 2018. I have helped organize Stem community events. I tirelessly champion for Stem residents and businesses every day.
My Top Issues
Supporting entrepreneurship and small businesses
I’m a huge supporter of small business. If you have a dream of owning your own business, I will be your biggest cheerleader. I believe small businesses are the backbone of a strong community.
Balance development with neighborhood preservation
We live in an area that is growing for reasons beyond the control of our community. We can’t stop this growth, so we need to be smart about it, while preserving our local character.
Addressing the digital divide in underserved areas
Stem needs better access to broadband and 5g cellular service if we are going to have strong businesses and continue to be a place where people want to live. In 2025 it is not optional. I have fought for access for my entire political career and I will continue to fight for better access to broadband and cellular services.
Who I'm Running Against
Vicki Garrett (Republican Party)
Former clerk opposed to growth as well as zoning measures to control growth.
Travis Ennis (Other)
Party affiliation unknown. Policies and positions unknown. Running as a slate with Vicki and former Mayor Renee Green.
Amanda Spencer (Other)
Party affiliation is unknown. Policies and positions unknown. Running as a slate with Vicki and former mayor Renee Green.
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