Front Royal Mayor Lori Athey Cockrell Announces Re-Election Bid

Front Royal Mayor Lori Athey Cockrell has announced her re-election campaign, aiming to secure a second two-year term this fall. “Last week, Warren County Registrar Matthew Reisinger informed me that I had successfully submitted 125 Front Royal citizens’ signatures to support my candidacy. Therefore, my name will appear on the November 5, 2024, ballot.”

Lori Cockrell

Reflecting on her first term, Mayor Cockrell emphasized her collaboration with the Town Council and staff to foster integrity and respect within the town government. “My term began with hiring an experienced, professional Town Manager, Joe Waltz. Together, we’ve worked to stabilize town operations. While other localities have raised taxes, the Town of Front Royal has balanced its budget without increasing taxes while maintaining quality services,” she said.

Cockrell is a lifelong Front Royal resident, having graduated from Warren County High School in 1985 before earning her Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Mary Washington and a Master of Science in Education from McDaniel College. She has served as an elementary school teacher in Warren County Public Schools since 1990, currently teaching at Hilda J. Barbour Elementary. Cockrell is married to Ricky Cockrell, and they have two children, Patrick “Blake” Cockrell and Anneslee Clay Cockrell, both graduates of Warren County High School.

Looking ahead to her potential second term, Mayor Cockrell expressed enthusiasm about continuing the progress made in her first term. “For the first time in recent memory, the Town Council has set clear goals and an action plan to enhance the quality of life for our citizens while improving government efficiency. The Town is moving in a positive direction, and I am dedicated to working with the Council to achieve these goals over the next two years.”

With a focus on stability, collaboration, and community service, Cockrell is poised to lead Front Royal toward continued improvement.