Six local candidates for the 2023 Municipal Elections shared a vision for their communities at the recent RCDP breakfast on October 14. Find more about all of the RCDP endorsed candidates at https://rowancountydemocrats.com/2023/10/17/october-breakfast/.
Barbara Mallett is running to continue as Mayor of East Spencer, adding to her 14 years as mayor and 34 years of public service. Her future plans are to bring people and growth to East Spencer with new housing developments and described a bright future in expectation of 800 future citizens.
Current Spencer Alderman Pat Sledge, seeking a third term, shared her education, qualifications, and the current Board’s vision concerning seniors and youth. She hopes to continue the momentum of goals already reached in Spencer that include a modern town hall, modern police department, a citizen’s portal to communicate, and plans for a new downtown park.
Laurie Mack, whose ancestry and youth are in Granite Quarry, is running for a two-year term on Granite Quarry’s Board of Aldermen. Already active on the Town Zoning Board, Parks and Recreation Committee and as Precinct Chair, Laurie is committed to serving her community. A retired teacher, she is a regular substitute teacher at local schools.
Holden Sides, grew up in Rowan County, is a Catawba graduate and political science major, and seeks a seat on the Kannapolis City Council. With his profession in real estate and banking, he sees the need for housing options and infrastructure like roads and transportation. He is also an advocate for health care and mental health care.
Jason Higgins, a Bank of America employee for 23 years, is running for the China Grove City Council. Serving on the China Grove Planning Board and Parks Advisory Board, his priorities include affordable housing, downtown revitalization and responsible growth.
Tamara Sheffield, current Mayor Pro Tem of the Salisbury City Council, seeks re-election and advocates for four-year terms. With “all people” as her platform, she shared information about a 10-year housing plan, a 3-to-5-year strategic plan, and a regionally focused 20/40 plan for Salisbury.