LUMBERTON — After serving Robeson County as register of deeds for 16 years, Vicki Locklear is facing primary competition for the first time since 1996.
Hubert Sealey, a fellow Democrat, is challenging Locklear in the primary on Tuesday. Because there is no Republican candidate, the winner will be unopposed in the General Election in November.
Sealey is currently serving his third four-year term on the county Board of Commissioners as the District 2 representative.
“Mr. Sealey is on our board of county commissioners and seems to be a nice young man. I wish him the best of luck,” Locklear said.
Locklear has been in the Register of Deeds Office for 22 years, including six as as deputy clerk. Locklear said that being a part of the office for so long has helped her further appreciate what she does.
“I get excited when someone walks in,” Locklear said. “My customers come first. We go out of our way to help people find what they need and get what they need. I’m not the kind of person to pass the buck.”
The register of deeds is in charge of county records that, in Robeson’s case, date to 1787. Those records include proof-of- life events such as births and deaths, and documentation of real property to include deeds, mortgages and mechanic’s liens. The salary of the register of deeds ranges from $56,536 to $70,105, based on years of service.
“I just am thankful to have the opportunity to serve as the register of deeds for the past 16 years and I hope to continue with the help of Robeson County citizens,” Locklear said.
A former highway patrolman, Sealey was terminated in May of 2011 after being accused of misconduct, including disobeying a direct order, neglecting his duties and lying during an Internal Affairs investigation. The Robesonian attempted to call Sealey three times and left two messages, but received no return call.
Ms. Locklear has done and continues to do a great job. Its not her fault you were fired and now have no job. You should have complied with the HP.