“So many people poured into my life for this journey,” Elliott said. “And it started 18 years ago when I moved back to Henderson to buy my house. So I’m excited of the shoulders that I’m standing on.”

The city has a population of about 15,000 people in Vance County and has a reputation for shootings and high crime. However, Elliot hopes to use her position to create a positive future for her constituents.

“This is not about Melissa. But it’s about a community,” she said. “I think my job is to be the connector, right? And to sell our city to developers. And to come in because Henderson is really a great place to live. And because I’ve lived on the other side of the track … I think I’m the greatest photo child, if you will, to make that happen for others.”

Mayor Melissa Elliot

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