Thomas G. Walters, a former commissioner and self-employed insurance agent, spoke to the town board briefly Tuesday afternoon to announce he was interested in the position.

Marshall, one of two native Wake Foresters on the five-man board, stepped down last month to take a job in Florida.

Some board members praised Walters.

"He is a strong, qualified candidate who has more experience than I do," Commissioner David Camacho said.

The town board set a deadline of Tuesday for any former commissioners to express interest in serving the remaining eight months of Marshall's term, but Mayor Vivian Jones said other candidates still have time to apply.

The board hopes to fill the empty seat by April 1 in order to begin work on the 2003-2004 budget as soon as possible.

Although the board has not officially chosen Marshall's successor, Commissioner Rob Bridges noted that Walters has experience with four town budgets during his tenure.

"He also had some unfinished business when he left office -- water," he said. Wake Forest is currently negotiating with Raleigh to either merge its water systems or to allow Wake Forest to draw water from the Neuse River.

Walters said he was up for the challenge and looking forward to "rolling up my sleeves.

"Since it has only been a short time since I was a board member and because I am still involved in various capacities in the community, I have been able to remain connected to the community," he said.

"I believe that my past work on water and growth issues and my relationship with other municipalities and elected officials will be of benefit to the board."

Walters said he was willing to give "110 percent by making myself available whenever or wherever the town needs my participation."

Walters served one term on the board, but did not run for re-election when his term ended in 2001.