Evans is unopposed in his bid to succeed outgoing mayor Norman Johnson, but he's decided not to let election season pass by without some campaigning.

"I want everyone to know that I take the job seriously," Evans said. "I want to generate an interest in Smithfield politics. It will lead people to ask questions."

His campaign slogan, "Time to Move Forward," has generated buzz too, given the eight years Evans has been on the Town Council.

Evans said the council, in recent years, had laid the groundwork for future development, such as infrastructure projects. Now, he said, it's time to "move forward" and bring in that development.

"We've got a lot of opportunity here in Smithfield," he said. "We've got to attract jobs. That is paramount for Smithfield."

Evans said the council has been working to create a more business-friendly culture, and the immediate results have been the new convenience store and offices going up downtown. Here's where Evans stands on the issues of this election season:

On the bridge project: Evans wants to work with the N.C. Department of Transportation to replace the bridge in six months or less, while using the project as an opportunity to beautify the western entrance to town.

On the old town hall: "It's past time for doing something with that facility." If the Downtown Smithfield Development Corp. is unable to secure a grant to market the property, the town will have to get involved. "To me, this is the last-ditch effort."

On the deer problem: "It's paramount we do something. It should be a town-wide effort."

On downtown parking: Evans wants improved signage so that visitors to downtown are aware of their parking options, particularly the lot behind the library.