Jahmar Cobb, candidate for town council in Holly Springs, NC

Six people are seeking to join the Holly Springs Town Council.

And with three seats open and only one incumbent running for re-election, the board is guaranteed to see some new faces.

Incumbent Peter Villadsen is not seeking another term while Council member Christine Kelly is running for the mayoral seat. The leaves incumbent Dan Berry and newcomers Carrie Randa, Jahmar Cobb, Kristi Bennett, Tim Forrest and Susan Smith on the ballot for the three seats.

However, in August, Smith announced on Facebook she was no longer campaigning for the seat.

Early voting in the Nov. 2 election begins Oct. 14 and runs through Oct. 30.

To find polling places and full details on early voting, visit wakevotesearly.com or contact the Board of Elections at 919-404-4040 or voter@wakegov.com

Name: Jahmar Cobb

Age: 34

Residence: 1341 New Hill Road

Occupation: Faith Leader

Education: College

Political or civic experience: Civic

Campaign website: www.cobb4council.com

In August, Holly Springs Mayor Dick Sears decided against ordering a mask mandate like some other Wake County towns. Do you agree with this decision?

No, I disagree, in addition to being vaccinated, wearing a face mask has been proven to both prevent exposure and spread of cOVID-19. While wearing a mask does not guarantee that one will not spread or contract any virus or disease, it has been scientifically proven and is recommended by the CDC. I believe that very preventative measure should be used to stop the spread of this deadly and highly contagious virus.

What is Holly Springs doing right, and wrong, on managing growth?

Holly Springs is definitely doing something right as it has become a thriving suburb. Holly Springs has been noted to have low crime, great job opportunities for the working class and it continues to be a magnet for those relocating to the Carolinas. Holly Springs has provided tremendous growth opportunities for both residents and business owners.

While growth is great it does prevent challenges. One of the areas of major improvement for our town is diversity. There is no diversity, in my opinion, as it relates to representation of our town. While our residents are diverse, our leadership is not. Holly Springs officials must investigate various avenues to ensure that the town is equally represented. Diversity is not merely based upon race or ethnicity, but gender, faith and culture are included. We desperately need representation from all walks of life.

If elected, what would your two or three priorities be during your first year in office?

If elected, a few of my priorities would be to continue to investigate tangible solutions for the inconvenience that many in our town face due to the landfill. In addition, I would be an advocate for sustainability, there is nothing to sustain, if our residents are not placed at top priority. I would place all residents, business owners and those that visit our town at top priority by better engagement. I believe that town officials should not just be seen during campaigning or annual events, but should continuously engage with all throughout the year. This is how you get to know the people and the people get to know you.

What unique skills or life perspective would you bring to city governance?

I am a native of Holly Springs. My family has been in this community for over 40 years. I possess an eyewitness account of the advancement and challenges in our town. I have served as a faith leader for over 15 years and am active on several committees, which include the Comprehensive Transportation Plan Steering Committee and the GFL Landfill Sub-Task Force. In addition to being a native and serving in our town, I possess a willingness to work to together for the goal of Holly Springs becoming “One Holly Springs.” One in Commitment, Transparency and Community.

This story was originally published October 15, 2021 at 10:56 AM with the headline "Jahmar Cobb, candidate for town council in Holly Springs, NC."