Karen Lynn has never held an elected office, but she doesn’t consider that a negative as she seeks Pembroke City Council’s District 2 seat.

In fact, she sees it as an asset.

“I have never been involved in politics before now, so I can offer a fresh perspective,” Lynn said. “I also would go into office with no political agenda.”

Lynn, 50, is a lifelong Pembroke resident. Running for office is something she had been “contemplating for a while,” she said.

“Pembroke is growing, and I want to be a part of that,” Lynn said.“It is an exciting time for the city, and I want to help it grow in the right direction.”

Managing growth could be the most-significant issue facing Pembroke in the coming years, according to Lynn.

Growth could necessitate the city to expand services for its residents, hire more employees, offer additional housing options and address increases in traffic and crime.

“All of these new needs would have to be paid for, so budgeting would also be impacted,” she said. “I think any issue that comes up has to be addressed with an open mind and with the willingness to work with other council members, the mayor, community leaders and local businesses.”

Lynn is a business teacher at her alma mater, Bryan County High School. She also serves as the school’s work-based learning coordinator and an assistant coach for the Lady Redskins softball team.

Her goals if she is elected include providing more youth programs in Pembroke.

She envisions after-school programs offering tutoring and arts and crafts, as well as increased sports opportunities with the Pembroke Recreation Department.

Lynn said she also wants to do more for the city’s elderly population. She hopes to expand the home-delivered meals service for seniors and work with the local senior-citizens center to broaden assistance programs.

“I want to increase opportunities for our younger and older citizens,” Lynn said. “I am proud to be from Pembroke and proud of its citizens.”