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.
Richard Collier
Occupation: Civil engineer
Political experience: None
Political affiliation: Republican
GWBJ: If elected, what changes would you like to see in Wilmington during your term?
Collier: “I want Wilmington to prioritize long-term planning instead of short-term fixes. That means fair compensation for first responders, so we retain the talent needed to keep families safe. It means modernizing our roads, stormwater systems and utilities so they keep pace with rapid growth. And it means better collaboration with CFPUA, NCDOT and regional partners to align infrastructure planning with future needs. My focus will be on building systems that last, protecting neighborhoods and ensuring Wilmington is prepared for the next generation.”
GWBJ: What is your approach to growth and development in Wilmington?
Collier: “Growth is here – we can either manage it or let it manage us. I’ll push for smart, responsible growth tied to existing infrastructure and services, so new development doesn’t overwhelm our roads or stormwater systems. Housing should be located near jobs and transit corridors, and infill should respect neighborhood character. I’ll also bring accountability to city council – ensuring that decisions are transparent and rooted in long-term planning, not short-term convenience. As an engineer, I understand how to balance growth with infrastructure and sustainability.”
GWBJ: What do you think the Wilmington City Council and mayor can do about the need for a Cape Fear Memorial Bridge replacement?
Collier: “The Cape Fear Memorial Bridge is a state project, but it’s also a regional lifeline. The City of Wilmington must have a seat at the table as NCDOT, Brunswick County, New Hanover County, Leland, and Belville work toward a solution. I do not support tolling the bridge—we should exhaust every option for state and federal funding before asking drivers to pay. With smart collaboration and a regional perspective, we can secure the investment needed to replace this critical link without burdening families."
GWBJ: If elected, which industry would you like to see grow in your next term?
Collier: “I’d like to see the continued expansion of the NC State Ports and industrial economic development across our region. Both bring good-paying jobs, strengthen our economy and build on Wilmington’s natural advantages as a port city. I’ll also work to support growth in advanced manufacturing, technology and small businesses by streamlining processes, cutting red tape and ensuring our infrastructure – roads, water and broadband – can support them.”
GWBJ: Would you put an emphasis on affordable housing in the city? How would you approach the issue?
Collier: "Yes. Wilmington needs both affordable and workforce housing, but it must be done responsibly. I’ll support partnerships with nonprofits, encourage public–private collaboration, and advocate for zoning reforms and incentives that allow more flexibility—such as accessory dwelling units and multi-family housing on appropriate sites. Growth should be tied to infrastructure capacity and environmental protections, so we’re not trading affordability for flooding or traffic. The goal is balance: keeping Wilmington livable for teachers, nurses, first responders, and families while preserving what makes our city special."
GWBJ: What do you bring to the role that the other candidates do not?
Collier: "I’m a civil engineer with 30 years of experience solving real-world problems. I know how to plan, design, and deliver infrastructure that works—and I understand Wilmington’s codes, systems, and challenges. I’ve served multiple terms on the New Hanover County Planning Board and the Wilmington Planning Commission, so I can hit the ground running. I’ve also designed and built projects across this city with smart planning and sustainability in mind. Where others see obstacles, I see opportunities—and I’ll bring practical, long-term solutions to City Council from day one."
