This year’s city council election consists of seven members of the Wilmington community vying for the council’s three open seats, including two incumbents.
Early voting starts Thursday, Oct. 16, and the election will be held Tuesday, Nov. 4.
The Greater Wilmington Business Journal asked each candidate questions about their campaign to see how the candidates compare.
Luke Waddell (Incumbent)
Occupation: CEO, Cadence Realty Corp.; entrepreneur; business owner; and Wilmington City Councilman
Political Experience: Elected to the Wilmington City Council in 2021
Political Affiliation: Republican
GWBJ: If elected, what changes would you like to see in Wilmington during your term?
Waddell: “I want Wilmington to be safer, stronger and better prepared for growth. That means continuing to invest in public safety, closing the gap between the 205 sworn officers we currently have and the 290 we need and ensuring our new police chief has the tools and support to succeed. It also means making responsible infrastructure investments, creating more parks and green space through pragmatic partnerships and keeping taxes low so families and businesses can thrive.”
GWBJ: What is your approach to growth and development in Wilmington?
Waddell: “I don’t believe we need to build on every square inch of Wilmington. Growth should be smart, balanced and sustainable, protecting neighborhood character, preserving green space and investing in infrastructure. Earlier this year, I outlined this vision in my Seeing Green op-ed: we must preserve land for parks while still making room for jobs and housing. The decisions we make today will define Wilmington for decades, and I’ve proven I’ll put principle over politics when evaluating development.”
GWBJ: What do you think the Wilmington City Council can do about the need for a Cape Fear Memorial Bridge replacement?
Waddell: “City council must work hand-in-hand with state and regional partners to secure fair funding and keep the project moving forward. As vice chairman of the Wilmington Metropolitan Planning Organization and a member of its new alternative funding subcommittee, I’m exploring opportunities like a tri-county sales tax referendum that could pay for the replacement bridge and invest in other critical infrastructure across our region. Leadership on this issue means thinking regionally - bringing partners together and ensuring the project gets built on time and funded responsibly."
GWBJ: If elected, which industry would you like to see grow in your next term?
Waddell: “Wilmington should continue to diversify its economy with industries that provide strong jobs for our workforce. I’d like to see growth in technology, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing – sectors that can anchor long-term economic opportunity in our region. By supporting smart infrastructure and protecting quality of life, we can attract and retain the types of employers who strengthen Wilmington’s future.”
GWBJ: Would you put an emphasis on affordable housing in the city? How would you approach the issue?
Waddell: “Yes - but affordability has to be paired with livability. I support incentivizing workforce housing in areas near jobs and transit, while protecting neighborhood character and green space. In my Seeing Green op-ed, I argued that parks and open space are part of the affordability equation too, because families need more than a roof over their heads—they need safe, vibrant places to live. The right approach is balanced, disciplined, and rooted in long-term planning."
GWBJ: What do you bring to the role that the other candidates do not?
Waddell: “I bring a proven record of principled leadership. Over the last four years, I’ve been direct, transparent, and accessible. I’ve rolled up my sleeves to do the hard work - fighting for public safety, fiscal responsibility, and responsible growth. I’ve never shied away from tough decisions, and I don’t put politics ahead of principle. Wilmington is at a turning point, and I have the experience, backbone and results to keep our city safe, strong, and moving forward."
