HOPE MILLS — Before the Hope Mills Board of Commissioners convened for its regularly scheduled meeting Monday, a special session was called to honor Commissioner Jerry Legge, who is serving his final term.
Legge has served the town for 27 years as a commissioner. He voted to establish many key facilities including the recreation center, neighborhood sidewalks, the splash pad, the library, the public safety center, and even Town Hall itself.
“I voted to build this building,” Legge said. “I’m kind of a stubborn guy—I like things done the right way.”
In addition to his service on the board, Legge organized and led the Hope Mills Youth Association for 30 years. He coached baseball, inspired generations of young athletes, and even umpired for three years.
The board surprised Legge by naming the Hope Mills Sports Complex after him; it will now be called the Jerry Legge Complex. Commissioners, town staff, and friends gathered at the complex to unveil a new sign and record a video of the event to play for Legge at Monday’s meeting.
He said he was completely shocked by the gesture and deeply appreciated it.
“I want to thank everyone who came out to honor me tonight,” Legge said. “I’m not sure I deserve it, but I’ll take it.
“A lot of friends and neighbors showed up that I wasn’t expecting to see.”
Legge offered some advice to those running in the municipal election, which was held Tuesday.
“For anyone running for office: good luck,” he said. “I hope you know what you’re getting into, because it’s not just a meeting every other week—it’s a 24-hour-a-day job. I’ve enjoyed it over the years, and I’d do it again. But don’t tell my wife.”
Legge’s wife of 46 years, Diana Legge, told CityView it was time for him to retire, even if he didn’t think so. She and their daughters have helped put up campaign signs in previous years and stood at the polls all day.
When asked about what’s next for the retiring commissioner, Diana Legge responded, “Keeping him healthy is number one. We went to the mountains last weekend. He needs to get out of the house—he’s not stuck here now, worrying about every little thing with the town. We’ll travel a bit; maybe the beach is next.”
Legge has two more regular meetings to attend before officially retiring.
Town honors the late fire chief and promotes police officers
In addition to honoring Legge on Monday, the board recognized and mourned the passing of retired former Fire Chief Charles Steven Lopez during its regular meeting. Lopez served the town of Hope Mills for 30 years, primarily as deputy fire chief before becoming fire chief in 2023.
According to the town’s press release, Lopez exemplified leadership, integrity, and compassion throughout his tenure.
The board also recognized and promoted two police officers: Derek Rolland to captain and Anthony Mendez to lieutenant. Mayor Jessie Bellflowers told the board that the men were fine examples of the best of Hope Mills.
The board also called for a closed session to discuss personnel matters and voted to seal the minutes of the meeting.
The board’s next regular scheduled meeting will be at 7 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 17 at Town Hall due to the observance of Veterans’ Day.
