A Typically Good Mayor

Southern Pines has a history of good government in large part because it has a history of good mayors. A typical Southern Pines mayor is progressive, pragmatic and a consensus builder.

Such a man and such a mayor was E. Earl Hubbard, who was on the Town Council from 1969 until 1977 and served as mayor from 1969 until 1973. Hubbard, who died Friday at the age of 76, participated in decisions that were of historic significance for his town and that foreshadowed some of the issues that confront the town now. During his administration, the council began the planning of a new municipal water plant that saw Southern Pines through the worst parts of the drought that has beset us for the last few years. His tenure was also marked by attention to planning and zoning issues.

Also a prominent business and civic leader and a lifelong humanitarian, Hubbard was a part of Southern Pines’ proud mayoral tradition. We extend our sympathy to his five children, and on behalf of the town that he served so well, we thank him for his many contributions.