Justin Lewter
Kannapolis City Mayor
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About the Office
The Mayor is the chief executive officer of the municipality. They often preside over council meetings and may have the power to hire and fire heads of municipal departments.
Term Length
4 years
Election Date
Nov 4, 2025
About Me
Party
Independent
Occupation
Nonprofit Consultant
Fun Fact
I was such a terrible baseball player as a kid. My mind used to wander while out on the field.Playing second base, I literally had a ball bounce into my glove before I knew the ball was hit. I was embarrassed that I was able to make the out. I was just lucky. Nothing to brag about. But in retrospect, that's also been my blessing. Good things just seem to happen to me at the right time.
Past Experience
I believe we are in a crucial moment in our city. We have the potential to elevate our reputation and quality of living in a moment when austerity and fear are the order of the day. I am rejecting this brand of politics. I am rejecting this notion that city government should only be used as a layer of bureacracy to discourage offering services and using its power to improve the lives of the governed - a wet blanket on the heads of its residents. I disagree. This is the City of Looms, once the home to world famous textile mills.The mills are gone but we can yet weave a tapestry of inclusion, innovation and invention. I am an excellent sewer when it comes to discovering whats possible if we work together. I have worked in nonprofit management for thirty years. My leadership has been demonstrated by organizing boards, furthering the fiscal goals of multiple nonprofits through various fundraising strategies, and leading teams and organizations, to accomplish their respective missions. My compelling interest is that my work improved the lives of others. Government has that ability. We have to choose it. I believe if the city chooses to see government as a tool to improve life, they will choose me.
My Top Issues
Increasing affordable housing options
Housing affordability is simply insuring there are enough houses and apartments to meet the demand.We want stable homes in our communities and that means not pricing young families out of the market. Keeping the infirmed, our seniors and mentally ill well housed and cared for. And yes, our second chancers too.
Promoting equitable distribution of infrastructure investments
Sidewalks. A useful way to improve a community, make it's streets safer and improve physical health of the residents.
Attracting and retaining businesses
The best way to solve the housing crisis is to make the city a haven for skilled labor. We want investment that employs our residents and offers well paying jobs. We can incentivize a broad spectrum of housing developments in order to achieve our goals.
Who I'm Running Against
Darrell Hinnant (Republican Party)
Two terms incumbent Mayor seeking re-election. White male 60+ years of age. Served as a councilman prior to being mayor.
Doug Wilson (Republican Party)
Doug has served on the city council for 3+ terms. Seeking the office of Mayor. White male 60+ years of age.
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