By Maggie Beamguard
The election of new board members for the Seven Lakes West Landowners Association (SLWLA) is underway.
With Frank Ingham, Kevin Gustafson and Rita Wanser’s terms expiring in 2026, SLWLA landowners will be electing candidates for three open seats for three-year terms. In order to qualify for election, candidates must be landowners in good standing.
Landowners will soon be receiving packets containing ballots and instructions for returning them. The newly elected officers will be welcomed at the SLWLA annual meeting which takes place March 15, the third Sunday of the month.
Residents can return their ballots by mail or by dropping them off in the SLW office.
All candidates were invited by the Seven Lakes Insider to submit profiles, including candidate statements of under 100 words. Candidates Bob Connelly and Eddie Pearce did not reply. All candidates supplied biographical statements to be circulated to the Seven Lakes West community. Information for Connelly and Pearce can be found in community communications and on the Town Square app.
This unofficial forum supplements the election processes. The candidates’ submitted statements were edited only for clarity.
Lynni Jamieson
Residency
We moved to the Seven Lakes West community in July 2021 after exploring four states in search of lake living with convenient access to airports and quality medical care. Seven Lakes West and Auman Lake offered the perfect setting for retirement.
Occupation
With 26 years Air Force active duty and 19 years Army Special Operations as a civilian/contractor, I now contribute part-time to HQDA as a Systems Analyst.
Community Service
Although I haven’t yet had the opportunity to become active in our community, with retirement, I’m excited to get more involved. I look forward to meeting neighbors, building friendships, and contributing in meaningful ways. Being part of a welcoming, vibrant community is important to me, and I hope to support events, initiatives, and activities that strengthen connections and make Seven Lakes West an even better place to live.
Candidate Statement
I am eager to serve on the Seven Lakes West HOA Board to help preserve and strengthen our welcoming, connected community. I value the pride neighbors take in supporting one another and maintaining shared spaces. Drawing on decades of military leadership and my experience as a Systems Analyst, I bring skills in problem-solving, resource management, and collaborative decision-making. I am committed to maintaining property values, enhancing amenities, promoting safety, and ensuring thoughtful, sustainable growth — protecting the qualities that make Seven Lakes West a special place to live.
Rita Wanser
Residency
We have been SLWLA members for 5.5 years. After considering several states, we chose North Carolina for its lake communities. Initially purchasing in Pinehurst, we ultimately settled in SLW, where we found the ideal home and community.
Occupation
I am retired after 46 years in research and general management/leadership roles in multiple Fortune 500 companies and my consulting business.
Community Service
I am an active volunteer in SLW. I have served on the Communications Committee. I was a former eBlast publisher, volunteer for community events, leading the Events Committee for one year, and am currently acting as BOD Secretary after my appointment to the BOD in 2024. Contributing to our community is a great way to meet people and can be a rewarding experience.
Candidate Statement
I am committed to serving on the SLWLA Board to help shape the future of our community. SLW’s growth presents both opportunities and challenges, especially as we address aging infrastructure and financial responsibilities. My goal is to support the completion of key projects, ensure consistency in our procedures and governing documents, and encourage collaboration across committees. I believe these efforts are essential for maintaining SLW’s reputation and property values. I am passionate about contributing to a vibrant, sustainable community and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact for all members.
