Name as it appears on the ballot: Kenneth E. Odegard II
Previous elected offices held: N/A
Age as of Election Day: 61
Occupation (employer, where you work, what you do): Retired Green Beret; Military Contractor.
Best phone number and email for voters to reach you. Website and campaign social media:
- 910-273-3705
1. Give us your elevator pitch in 200 words or less. Why are you running for this office? What makes you the most qualified candidate?
I am a proud U.S. Army Veteran—having served as a Ranger in the 3rd Ranger Battalion, a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division, and a retired Special Forces Green Beret. As a Bronze Star recipient and Afghanistan Veteran, I know what it means to lead, to serve, and to get things done.
For the past 25 years, Fayetteville has been my home. I’ve raised two children through our local schools, experienced firsthand the challenges and opportunities our community faces, and I believe Fayetteville’s best days are still ahead.
I am running for Fayetteville City Council to bring a new voice, a mission-focused mindset, and proven leadership to the table. Together, we can build a brighter, stronger future for our city.
2. What do you view as the three most pressing issues facing your district and the city as a whole? How will you address them as a city council member?
The three most pressing issues facing Fayetteville and my district are public safety, fiscal responsibility, and economic growth.
1. Public Safety – Families deserve safe neighborhoods. I will support law enforcement while also investing in youth programs and community partnerships that address the root causes of crime, including mentorship and after-school opportunities.
2. Fiscal Responsibility – The city must live within its means. As a veteran and leader, I understand mission discipline. I will scrutinize spending, prioritize essential services, and ensure taxpayer dollars are used wisely and transparently.
3. Economic Growth & Infrastructure – Fayetteville has enormous potential, but we must attract new businesses and support local entrepreneurs. I will advocate for smart infrastructure improvements, speeding up all processes, cutting the red tape, and strengthen partnerships with Fort Bragg to drive economic opportunity.
By focusing on these priorities, I will work to make Fayetteville a safer, stronger, and more prosperous city for all residents.
3. What’s the best or most important thing the Fayetteville City Council has done in the past year? Additionally, name a decision you believe the council should have handled differently. Please explain your answers.
The best thing I’ve seen at a Fayetteville City Council meeting this year was when Stacey Buckner was awarded the key to the city for her work helping the homeless. That moment reminded me what’s possible when we come together to recognize and support those who are making a real difference in people’s lives.
The worst thing I’ve seen the Fayetteville City Council do this year is mishandle the youth curfew issue. While the goal was to address the high crime rate while protecting the youth, the ordinance was rushed, argued over too long, lacked clear enforcement rules, and didn’t involve the community in meaningful ways.
4. Last year, the City of Fayetteville sued a contractor for abandoning over $6 million in construction projects. The city has since hired new contractors to finish the projects. What steps will you take to ensure Fayetteville is able to successfully complete capital projects in the future?
After a contractor abandoned $6 million in city projects, it’s clear we need stronger safeguards. This is a huge problem for the City and accountability falls on whoever approved this contractor in the first place. I would ensure contractors are thoroughly vetted, enforce strict timelines and penalties, require performance updates, and implement regular oversight. That way, Fayetteville’s projects are completed on time, on budget, and taxpayers’ money is protected.
5. While overall crime in Fayetteville has decreased by around 13% this year, the number of homicides and incidents of juvenile crime have increased. The Fayetteville City Council recently enacted a youth curfew ordinance. Would you have voted in favor of it? How will you work to improve public safety and reduce crime in the city?
I would have voted in favor of Fayetteville’s youth curfew because it helps protect juveniles during late-night hours, encourages parental responsibility, and provides structured alternatives through community programs. The ordinance also emphasizes education and support before enforcement, balancing safety with guidance. The execution of this particular curfew could’ve gone better.
6. How will you work to attract and retain new businesses and other development to Fayetteville? Name another municipality you believe has made smart decisions about sustainable growth and development, and describe what it has done that could be implemented in Fayetteville.
To improve Fayetteville’s business climate, I would streamline permitting, offer targeted incentives for new and small businesses, invest in infrastructure and public safety, and partner with local organizations to support entrepreneurship. These steps make Fayetteville a place where businesses want to grow, thrive, and bring jobs to town.
7. The county and city have often struggled to determine who is responsible for addressing homelessness. How would you work with the Cumberland County government and other community partners to decrease homelessness in the city?
To address homelessness, I would agree to work closely with Cumberland County and community partners to clarify responsibilities, expand supportive services, and use data to target resources effectively. By coordinating efforts, engaging the community, using existing services, and being innovative we can reduce homelessness by providing lasting solutions to help keep everyone safe.