Sammy Aiken, a candidate for Lenoir County Commissioner, is drawing from a lifetime of service and a deep commitment to community involvement as he campaigns for the upcoming 2024 election. A veteran with 20 years of Navy experience and 12 years on the Kinston City Council, Aiken is no stranger to leadership. He says his military background and local government experience have prepared him to serve Lenoir County in this new capacity.

"My Grandmother, aka 'BIG MAMA,' was greatly respected by the community for her loving, caring hands. I was raised, 'As much is given, much is owed,'" Aiken said. His upbringing, rooted in the values of service and responsibility, has shaped his approach to public office, where he believes the community must come together to tackle pressing issues.

Aiken sees the need for more collaboration between public and private entities to address local concerns. “Public-private brainstorming together is a must,” he said, identifying key areas for development, including transportation, crime prevention, and affordable housing. With the military presence expanding at the Global TransPark, Aiken emphasized the importance of accommodating new personnel and fostering economic growth that benefits all residents.

Aiken's platform centers around increased transparency in government and greater citizen participation in local decision-making. He plans to strictly enforce North Carolina's “Sunshine Law,” which requires open meetings for public bodies, and wants to ensure that citizens have their full time to voice concerns during meetings. “Transparency for the public. Enforce the NC 'Sunshine Law'... Allow citizens to have their full three minutes at Citizen Comments uninterrupted,” Aiken said.

During his time on the Kinston City Council, Aiken developed a reputation for listening to the concerns of his constituents, a practice he intends to continue if elected as county commissioner. "I will conduct frequent community meetings and forums on topics most urgent to our citizens," he said, stressing the need for elected officials to remain accessible and responsive to the needs of the people they represent.

Aiken's priorities also extend to the youth and military personnel in the county. "Our people are our greatest assets, especially our youth and children," Aiken said, noting that community growth must include providing opportunities for the younger generation. Additionally, with the military’s growing footprint in the area, Aiken aims to be a liaison for military families and personnel. "As Lenoir County Commissioner, I have unique skills as a Liaison and Ombudsman to welcome our military with open arms."

Aiken believes the county needs an updated five-year strategic plan for economic growth and long-term stability. In his view, a well-crafted plan will ensure that Lenoir County can tap into its potential and fully utilize its resources. "Everybody needs to be involved in discussions about our growth and expenditure of tax dollars," he said, pointing to the importance of collective decision-making and community engagement in shaping the county's future.

In addition to transportation and housing, Aiken addressed concerns about safety and homelessness. He referenced his past efforts in establishing a policy with the Kinston Police Department to protect citizens who report crimes from retaliation. "I established a policy with the Police department to ask the persons who see something and call 911 on criminals not to come to the house unless they felt safe from retaliation," Aiken said. Crime prevention and support for the homeless population will remain a key focus if he is elected.

Ultimately, Aiken’s campaign is built on his belief that Lenoir County’s best days are ahead, but only if the community works together to address its challenges. "Let us make it happen," Aiken concluded, calling for collective action and public engagement to create positive change.

North Carolina will hold its general election on Nov. 5th with in-person early voting beginning on October 17th. Neuse News will live stream the 2024 Election Results on Facebook starting at 7:15 pm.