R. Dylan Potter: Young Nurse Aims to Bring Growth, Transparency, and Revitalization to Snow Hill
SNOW HILL — At just 26 years old, R. Dylan Potter is among the youngest candidates seeking election to the Snow Hill Town Commission this year. A lifelong Greene County resident and registered nurse, Potter says his decision to run stems from a deep commitment to community growth, transparency, and opportunity for the next generation.
“I’ve lived here my entire life,” Potter said. “I work here, bought my first home here, and want to help shape the kind of town where people my age can stay, build careers, and raise families.”
Potter is a graduate of Greene Early College High School, where he earned an associate degree before age 18. He later completed his Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at Lenoir Community College and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through Capella University — a program he finished in just eight weeks.
Beyond his nursing career, Potter has long been active in local civic life. He has volunteered with the North Carolina GOP, served as Vice Chairman, and worked with CDP, a citizen-led local economic development group in Greene County. He also served with the Greene County Board of Elections, including as a Chief Judge of a voting precinct.
Encouraging Voter Participation
Potter supports moving municipal elections to even-numbered years, a change that other counties — like Jones County — have adopted to increase participation and reduce costs.
“I think voter turnout is important not just to justify election costs on taxpayers,” he said, “but because it gives the public more voice and impact on local elections, which often affect their everyday lives more than larger races.”
Public Safety and Fiscal Responsibility
Following Snow Hill’s recent debate over whether to disband its police department, Potter said maintaining and properly funding local law enforcement is one of his top priorities.
“I am against disbanding the police department,” he said. “I’d work hard to expand the tax base and cut costs so the town can continue to keep the department and ensure proper staffing, training, and equipment. That alone helps reduce crime and makes citizens feel safer.”
He also supports community policing and neighborhood watch programs as tools to strengthen relationships between officers and residents.
Top Community Issues
Potter identified three key issues he believes Snow Hill must address:
Rising operational costs and a limited tax base.
Potter says growth must be smart and sustainable, balancing development with infrastructure capacity. “I want to work with the town manager, mayor, and developers to grow Snow Hill responsibly — attracting new industries and residents without overburdening taxpayers.”Lack of opportunities for young people.
“Too many young people leave after graduation because they don’t see a future here,” he said. “We need more housing, jobs, and recreation opportunities. Expanding parks and youth engagement programs can help change that.”Town revitalization and beautification.
Potter said he wants to see a stronger focus on improving public spaces, parks, and downtown appearance. He plans to explore grant options, public-private partnerships, and community-led cleanups to enhance the town’s image.“Curb appeal and community spirit go hand-in-hand,” he said. “If we make Snow Hill more inviting, people will want to invest and stay.”
Transparency and Communication
When asked about transparency in local government, Potter said while progress has been made, there’s room for improvement — particularly in how decisions are communicated.
“Issues like the police department vote could have been handled more openly,” he said. “I would push for better use of social media, an updated town website, and stronger public notification so citizens are always in the know.”
He emphasized that decisions should never be made privately before public meetings and said building trust requires consistent communication.
Looking Ahead
Potter’s broader vision focuses on economic growth, digital outreach, and maintaining the character of Snow Hill.
“I want to help attract new businesses and residents by keeping taxes reasonable, prioritizing development, and showing the world what Snow Hill has to offer,” he said. “The town should take an active role in housing, roads, and revitalization — because that’s how communities thrive.”
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