After a swift departure, Pender County Commissioner Jimmy Tate explains challenges from two years ago

"I'm determined to not let that be the narrative this time. I'm going to stay. I'm going to fight it. And most importantly, I'm going to focus on Pender County and make the good tough decisions."

PENDER COUNTY (WWAY)–After stepping down as the Pender County Commissioner more than two years ago, a face you may recognize is back on the board. And he’s willing to move forward and grow from the past. Jimmy Tate spoke with us about the challenges years ago that caused him to resign from his position. Instead of speaking in a boardroom, he chose a place that he says will always tell the truth: his farm.

Tate says it’s been an interesting start since his return to the board.

“It certainly hasn’t been a dull moment. It certainly reminds me of the days in 2007 and 2008 when I first ran for the board of commissioners,” Tate shared.

In January of 2023, Commissioner Tate stepped down from the Pender County Board – a resignation sparked by an alleged rift with previous board members about his race, sexuality, and where he called home.

“When sometimes you’re the only one in the room, you got to be able to prove ourselves- not only regularly but to double prove ourselves. So, when they can’t find something, people make up something to distort your character,” Tate shared.

He believes a lot of the treatment stems from jealousy and intimidation.

“Sometimes, when we are strong- we’re judged as angry. Sometimes, when we’re quiet- we’re judged as we’re not paying attention. So, regardless, that race taught me I got to do the best job I can, and I got to earn people’s trust,” Tate shared.

As a registered Republican in Pender County, Tate says he doesn’t fit the norm of most. He says he’s described as a unicorn because not only is he a registered Republican, but he’s an African American man and homosexual. He says he never used his differences to get ahead.

“I’ve never defined myself by my differences. I want to use my differences and show people that anybody can achieve in spite of and because of them. I want you to know my beliefs and core values and why I’m fighting the way I am. I don’t want anybody to give me any type of entitlements,” Tate explained.

Midway through the conversation, we took a lap around his farm. We spoke about the allegations surrounding Tate not living in Pender County. He says the rumors were false.

“Well, it’s because I own multiple properties, and maybe they have never met a person like me- who owns a property at their gated country club,” Tate said.

Now, here we are, more than two years later, Tate has returned- being reappointed in April- with a new outlook and a willingness to grow from the past.

“There are some people out there who hate people. They will attack you so much to the point that you feel that you will have no one believe your narrative. So, you think the best option is to quit,” Tate shared.

And you must admit, some have called Tate a firecracker- which he too would agree, but it’s the passion for his constituents rather than animosity towards people.

“I’m determined to not let that be the narrative this time. I’m going to stay. I’m going to fight it. And most importantly, I’m going to focus on Pender County and make the good tough decisions,” Tate said.

Tate goes on to say he is excited to be back on the board. He will serve as a commissioner until 2028.