In March of 2021, the Kinston Police Department Chief Tim Dilday announced his intent to retire after 27 years with the department. Earlier this month, City Manager Tony Sears announced his intention to leave the City of Kinston after almost a decade and assume a new role in Wilson. In another loss for the City of Kinston, Lenoir County has hired City Planner Adam Short as the Assistant to the County Manager / Planning Director to lead strategic planning and inspections.

“We look forward to Adam Short joining our organization in a dual role as the Assistant to the County Manager / Planning Director,” said Lenoir County Manager Michael James. “We will work with the City of Kinston to ensure a smooth transition for both agencies. Adam has considerable experience and a working knowledge of our community, which makes him a valuable addition to the Lenoir County team. Adam will be joining us by the end of July.”

“I’m excited to be joining the County in my new position as Assistant to the Manager and Deputy of Planning,” said Short. “I am hopeful I can serve the County in a positive way and built on the many great things we have going for our community.”

Short goes on to say, “I am hopeful that my history with the City will help to bridge our two organizations and facilitate future growth while improving the quality of life for our residents. I’m thankful for the opportunity, and I’m excited to get started!”

While the City of Kinston is experiencing three major departures in three months, the vacancies could become an election-year issue.

The City of Kinston will have multiple seats open in the upcoming election. Two city council members, Kristal Suggs and Robert Swinson will be up for election later this year. Mayor Dontario Hardy’s seat is also up for reelection this year. Filing for these three seats opens at noon on Friday, July 2, 2021, and ends at noon on Friday, July 16, 2021.

City Council Member Kristal Suggs posted on Facebook, “Truth is, I’m not sure at all if I’ll file to run again. I also know that I’ve worked hard and I’ve created my own space. I’ve proved that a regular, everyday person, can run and win. That’s the beauty of democracy, we all get to vote on candidates who represent us and our best interests.”