Democrat Lucas taking on her boss

Beverly Waggoner Lucas is running against her boss for Dorchester County treasurer.

Lucas, a Democrat who is deputy courier for the treasurer's office, is challenging Treasurer Mary Pearson, a Republican.

It's already caused some tension in the office, Lucas said. Pearson transferred Lucas under the supervision of County Administrator Jason Ward until after the election.

"The office was shocked when I signed up," Lucas said. "But you've got to pursue your dreams."

Lucas, 46, has never held political office, but she reminds people that Pearson wasn't elected to the treasurer's post. Gov. Mark Sanford appointed Pearson in 2006 to fill the unexpired term of former Treasurer Patsy Knight when she was elected to the state House of Representatives.

Lucas worked under Knight, also a Democrat. Lucas has worked for the treasurer's office for seven years.

She grew up in a political family. Her father is longtime Dorchester County Councilman Kenny Waggoner, for whom the county services building in St. George is named.

Lucas said she's running for treasurer because the county needs a change. She said she's been thinking about running ever since Knight stepped down.

"We need to bring back true leadership," she said. "People are definitely ready for a change. You don't have to be on the front page to get things done."

She was born in Knoxville, Tenn., but grew up near St. George. She's president of the Woodland High School Parent Teacher Association.

Before her present job she worked in outreach services for the Dorchester County Library system and worked for a company that sold communications equipment.

Beverly Waggoner Lucas

Birthdate: Oct. 13, 1961.

Family: Husband, Chip, and a son.

Education: Graduated from Mims Academy in Harleyville in 1979; attended Trident Technical College, South Carolina State College, University of South Carolina.

Occupation: Deputy courier for Dorchester County Treasurer.

Previous elected office: None.

Something people don't know about me: I like to fish, and I can even bait my own hook. I prefer big fat worms.

Name a specific goal you hope to accomplish if elected: I would like to bring true leadership and mentoring to Dorchester County, its staff and citizens. I will implement training programs for the staff. I am considering flex time to extend hours of service and maybe operating a satellite office in rural areas two times a week.

How to contact: 851-8087; beverlywlucas@aol.com; http://beverlywaggonerlucas.web.officelive.com/default.aspx