Mayor Don Hardy Seeks Third Term, Citing Progress in Housing, Safety, and Economic Growth
Mayor Don Hardy is seeking a third term leading the City of Kinston, emphasizing his continued focus on public safety, affordable housing, and infrastructure improvement. A U.S. Navy veteran, longtime law enforcement officer, and Kinston native, Hardy says his record of service and experience positions him to keep building on the city’s recent progress.
A Life of Service Rooted in Kinston
Hardy was born and raised in Kinston and has spent nearly two decades in law enforcement at the local, county, and federal levels. He served four years in the U.S. Navy, later graduating from Basic Law Enforcement Training at Lenoir Community College and completing federal law enforcement training with the Department of Defense.
His public service extends beyond policing. Hardy has served on numerous boards at the state and national levels, including the North Carolina Global TransPark Authority, North Carolina League of Municipalities, and National League of Cities. He is also a member of the Governor’s Crime Commission and American Flood Coalition, which connects Kinston to resources for resilience and infrastructure development.
“I was born and raised right here in Kinston,” Hardy said. “My mission has always been simple — to give back to the community that gave me everything.”
Ongoing Leadership and Recognition
Hardy’s leadership has been recognized across the state and nation. During his tenure, Kinston earned the 2025 All-America City Award, one of the nation’s most prestigious civic honors. He was also recognized with the AARP North Carolina Inspiration Award for Coastal Community Service in 2020 for leadership during the pandemic and disaster recovery efforts.
He has completed several competitive leadership programs, including the UNC School of Government’s Advanced Leadership Corps and The Hunt Institute’s education policy fellowship, and was selected for Leadership North Carolina Cohort 33 (2025–26).
“These programs and partnerships aren’t about politics,” Hardy said. “They’re about bringing resources, innovation, and funding opportunities directly back to Kinston.”
Top Priorities for Kinston’s Future
1. Affordable and Quality Housing
Hardy said housing remains a top concern for residents. He plans to continue expanding access to affordable and workforce housing through partnerships with state and federal agencies, developers, and nonprofits.
“Every resident — from seniors to veterans to young families — deserves access to safe, affordable housing,” Hardy said. “We’ll keep investing in revitalization and rehabilitation programs so people can repair and remain in their homes.”
2. Infrastructure, Transportation, and Flood Resilience
Infrastructure and flood prevention remain at the heart of Hardy’s agenda. He points to projects like the Adkin Branch flood mitigation model, Herritage Street revitalization, and Riverwalk expansion as examples of progress.
“We must continue securing state and federal funding for major infrastructure projects,” he said. “That includes working with FEMA, the Department of Environmental Quality, and the American Flood Coalition to implement long-term resilience and sustainability strategies.”
Hardy said transportation connectivity — through road improvements and multi-modal options — will also be a focus.
3. Economic and Community Development
Hardy says the city must continue fostering partnerships with Lenoir County Government, the NC Global TransPark, and local entrepreneurs to expand retail and business opportunities.
“Economic development and community vibrancy go hand in hand,” Hardy said. “Together, we can build a ‘Destination Kinston’ — a place that attracts investment, creates jobs, and celebrates our community pride.”
He said the city’s Age-Friendly Community Initiative will remain a cornerstone, ensuring Kinston remains accessible and welcoming to residents of all ages.
Public Safety and Trust
Hardy, who has nearly 20 years in law enforcement, said ensuring safety and accountability is personal to him.
“As someone who has worn the uniform, I know what it takes to keep a community safe,” he said. “Public safety begins with accountability, respect, and collaboration between our officers and the people they serve.”
He opposes efforts to defund police departments, emphasizing the need for both officer support and community trust.
Transparency and Communication
Hardy said city leaders have made transparency a priority and will continue to build on that foundation.
“We make sure that city council meetings, budgets, and project updates are shared openly with the public — whether through our website, community briefings, or social media,” he said. “Residents deserve to know how their tax dollars are being used.”
Hardy said he plans to expand community engagement through direct outreach and open dialogue. “City government should always be accessible and responsive,” he added.
Election Structure and Civic Engagement
Hardy said he is open to aligning municipal elections with federal cycles if residents support it and if the change maintains a focus on local priorities.
“If a shift to even-year elections can increase participation and save taxpayer dollars without losing local focus, I would be open to supporting it,” he said.
Vision for Kinston
Hardy described his leadership approach as collaborative and forward-looking, built on partnerships that bring funding and opportunities to the city.
“Kinston’s story is one of resilience and progress,” he said. “We’ve come a long way, and our best work is still ahead. Together, we’ll keep building a stronger, safer, and more prosperous community for everyone.”
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