Chris Parker, candidate for town council in Knightdale, NC

Four people want to join the Knightdale Town Council.

There are three seats open on the board, and one new person is guaranteed to join as incumbent Randy Young is not running for re-election.

Incumbents Latatious Morris and Mark Swan are facing off against challengers Steve Evans and Chris Parker.

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: Chris Parker

Age: 33

Residence: 307 Cedar Pond Court

Occupation: Firefighter

Education: BA Emergency and Disaster Management

Political or civic experience: Currently, I serve on the Knightdale Land Use Review Board and as a volunteer firefighter. In the past I served as the chair of Knightdale Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, T-Ball Coach and an Explorer Post Advisor.

Campaign website: www.facebook.com/ParkerforKnightdale

In August, Knightdale Mayor Jessica Day ordered a mask mandate unlike some other Wake County towns. Do you agree with this decision?

Yes, our mayor has access to the number of cases in our county and in the Knightdale area. She makes decisions based on what is best for all citizens. It is important that everyone does their part to protect us from the COVID-19 virus.

What is Knightdale doing right, and wrong, on managing growth?

Knightdale is doing a lot of things right! Because of this we have a lot of interest in development and people that want to live here. Knightdale is the 10th fastest growing city in North Carolina and that comes with a lot of challenges. Knightdale has met these challenges by setting a vision that includes developing the comprehensive plan and holds all new development to high standards. I feel that Knightdale has managed it well but will need to approach growth from an adaptive view point because there is not a perfect answer for everyone. Growing up here I have always loved the small-town feel, and I am committed to making sure our growth make sense.

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

(1) Public Safety – Accessing current and future needs based on the influx of growth. (2)Smart Development – Making sure all development is quality and meets the needs of all citizens. (3)Quality of life for the citizens – With growth comes the need to maintain amenities and services for all ages and interests.

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

I bring my passion for keeping my hometown one of the greatest places to live. I have volunteered in various positions because I am committed to doing my part to keep Knightdale safe and the place I want to raise my children. I first volunteered as a fire explorer with the Knightdale Fire Department when I was 14 years old. As a full-time firefighter now, I have always been committed to serving others and my community.

This story was originally published October 15, 2021 at 4:24 PM with the headline "Chris Parker, candidate for town council in Knightdale, NC."