Terri Mzarek: A Refreshing Vision for Forsyth County"

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Meet Terri Mrazek: Forsyth County Commissioner Candidate Shares Her Vision

Terri Mrazek on Leadership, Service, and Forsyth County’s Future

As part of our commitment to keeping Lewisville-Clemmons, and the greater Forsyth County community informed, WLLC is providing local candidates the opportunity to share their background, experience, and vision for service. Below is our community interview with Terri Mrazek, candidate for Forsyth County Commissioner, where she discusses her leadership journey, values, and priorities for the future of our county.

We Love Lewisville-Clemmons Community Leadership Interview

WLLC: Please share your background and a community leadership statement.

Terri:
I appreciate the opportunity to respond to this questionnaire and to share my background, experience, and vision for service. While some of the questions are more directly applicable to currently elected officials, I believe my professional, community, and life experience allow me to meaningfully address each area in a way that reflects my readiness to serve as a County Commissioner.

WLLC: Where do you currently reside?

Terri:
While I have not resided in the Village of Clemmons or the City of Lewisville, my residency is within Forsyth County in the community of Belews Creek, where I am deeply invested in the well-being and future of the county as a whole.

WLLC: Where did you grow up and what is your educational background?

Terri:
I grew up in Pittsburgh, where I attended North Hills High School. I later completed non-credit coursework in special education and child development at Duquesne University.

WLLC: What inspired you to pursue public service?

Terri:
Pursuing elected office was not something I initially envisioned. However, as I observed unmet needs within the community and recognized how my background in business, advocacy, and service could contribute to meaningful solutions, I felt called to step forward. My life experiences—both professional and personal—have prepared me to approach challenges with empathy, resilience, and practical problem-solving.

WLLC: Who have been your role models or mentors?

Terri:
My role models have been the individuals who paved the way before me—those who worked hard, demonstrated integrity, and took the time to mentor and guide me. Learning what worked, what did not, and why, provided invaluable insight that continues to inform my leadership style today.

WLLC: What advice would you give to emerging leaders?

Terri:
My advice to emerging leaders is simple: take every opportunity to enrich not only your own life, but also the lives of those you encounter. Leadership is not about title—it is about service, accountability, and impact.

WLLC: What is your vision and what are your goals as a community leader?

Terri:
As a County Commissioner, my vision is rooted in collaboration and service to the best interests of all residents. County government carries significant responsibility, including oversight of public safety, public education, infrastructure, public health, parks, and essential services. I believe thoughtful leadership requires balancing fiscal responsibility with compassion and long-term planning.

WLLC: What are your thoughts on the recent mismanagement of funds by the Winston-Salem Forsyth County School (WSFCS) Board and the potential it might have on local tax payers?

Terri:

Any request for additional county funding must be weighed carefully against other county obligations and the financial impact on residents.

My priority would be to balance fiscal responsibility with our shared commitment to student success—without shifting the burden of mismanagement onto taxpayers.

Going forward, I would advocate for improved budget forecasting, earlier reporting of potential shortfalls, and ongoing communication between the schools and the county to prevent deficits of this magnitude from occurring again.

Fiscal responsibility and transparency are essential to public trust. As a County Commissioner, I will ask the hard questions, demand accountability, and work collaboratively to ensure that our schools are supported in a way that is sustainable, responsible, and fair to the taxpayers we serve.

*NOTE: Terri's website says she is a firm proponent of school choice. She believes kids should only get the best education and parents know what's best for their kids.

She also supports low taxes and a strong economy for Forsyth County. Ronald Reagan said it best: “Government does not solve our problems, it subsidizes them.” Public assistance should be reserved for those who are in need.

WLLC: What is something people may not know about you?

Terri:
Many people may not realize that I am a high-energy, deeply passionate individual who genuinely cares about those I meet. When I encounter people in need, my goal is not to create dependency, but to offer a helping hand that restores dignity, fosters independence, and supports long-term growth. I believe in honoring the freedoms we enjoy as citizens and respecting the sacrifices made by those who have served our country.

WLLC: What do you value most about our communities?

Terri:
What I love most about our communities is the people. Meeting individuals from all walks of life, taking time to listen, and learning from their experiences has been one of the most meaningful parts of my journey.

WLLC: What are some of your favorite places or community assets in Forsyth County?

Terri:
I am especially drawn to our public parks and natural spaces. Nature is one of the greatest gifts we have, and preserving and enhancing these areas is vital for quality of life and community health.

I also strongly support local businesses. They are the foundation of our communities—employing residents, educating their children here, and contributing significantly to the local tax base through property and sales taxes. Supporting them strengthens the entire county.

WLLC: How can potential voters reach out to you?

Terri:

They can contact me on our website at the following link: Contact Terri

WLLC: We want to thank Terri for her time and willingness to share with our Lewisville-Clemmons community!