The coming election on Nov. 7 is something we should not take lightly. It is critical that we go vote and that we continue the vision that has taken almost three years to put together.

Mayor Pro-Tem Doug Wilson and Council Member Dianne Berry have been essential participants in the development of that vision and seeing it through. Their steadfast leadership is absolutely needed on our board.

Doug and Dianne both have the ability to fight for what they believe in, and also are willing to work with others to get things done. Doug and Dianne have participated in countless community functions to make sure Kannapolis is represented and have served our council exceptionally for almost four years.

Together with Mayor Hinnant, we have fought for new jobs to come to Kannapolis, such as Gordon Food Service, (headquarters of) Linder Equipment, Amazon Distribution Center, Dole Food Co., SP Richards, new speculative buildings, countless small businesses, and encouraged streamlining of all permitting processes in the city and fighting for an updated UDO to make small businesses and large business alike have an easier time doing business here.

We have also worked together to bring a confirmed $60 million private investment of apartments and new retail space to downtown, none of which would be realized without the vision to reinvigorate downtown.

Another Kannapolis native, Chris Gordon, would make a great addition to our council. Chris will bring new ideas and actively contribute to bringing economic success to the city. Chris has the positivity, eagerness, creativity and construction and marketing experience to represent our city well. Chris also has the attributes of someone who you can talk to openly, express your concerns, and work together with, in order to accomplish a goal.

Keep Kannapolis moving forward.

— Ryan G. Dayvault

Kannapolis

Dayvault is a member of Kannapolis City Council.