From left; Woody Washam, Denis Bilodeau and Kenny Campbell

Sept. 12. Cornelius is expected to have a competitive mayoral race this election cycle with three candidates registering to run. Our September print issue features a Q&A with all three that we’ll break down into two parts this week. Click here to view part one in case you missed it.

Two years ago, the voters approved $20M in Park Bonds. Did you support the bond, do you still, and how would you spend those dollars?

Bilodeau– As a former park commissioner, I’ve consistently supported enhancing park amenities and remain in favor of the bond. I encourage its use for projects identified in the 2024 Park Master Plan. A top priority should be strategic land purchases for future use, including green space, greenway connections, and multi-use paths. I also recommend allocating funds to improve Smithville Park by removing the chain link fence and upgrading the entrance. A monument and improved design would better represent this important gateway to downtown, creating a more welcoming and attractive community space that reflects our town’s long-term vision and values.

Washam– I strongly supported and continue to support the Park Bonds.  They were badly needed to expand our green space and greenways that are part of our Emerald Necklace, (a 13.1-mile system which is now 85% complete), and provide park maintenance funding.  Our parks are one of our town’s crown jewels and is highly utilized by our citizens. They are a point of light for our town, and I am committed to ensuring our parks remain among the best in our state, and that when building new parks and rec facilities, we listen to our citizens and prioritize their needs.

Campbell– I voted for the $20 million Park Bond because I think investing in our green spaces benefits all Cornelius residents – and I’m still a supporter. We need safe places where parents can take kids and neighbors can spend time together. The projects I support are a new recreation center, expanding tennis and pickleball courts, a new multi-purpose lighted field, restrooms, a 5k trail, updating our disc golf course, and extending our greenways. I think these are all great ways to invest in the health and well-being of our residents, and includes a wide variety of activities.

Will you be supporting the one cent county sales tax increase and what is your opinion on the transit plan?

Campbell– Yes I support the one cent county sales tax increase – traffic congestion is an issue we’re all effected by, and the money from this tax will go directly to our transit needs. In the first year alone, Cornelius is estimated to receive $5.75 million in new road funding, and that’s projected to grow every year. I support expanding bike lanes, widening roads, and increasing the walkability of the town via updating sidewalks and crosswalks. The regional plan includes a proposed rail line that would connect Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, and Uptown Charlotte which I support as well.

Bilodeau– For over 20 years, we’ve paid a half-cent sales tax with limited benefit. Now, a permanent increase to 1.5 cents, combined with high tolls and subsidies for micro transit, feels burdensome. While the PAVE Act offers a major opportunity to secure transportation funding, we must proceed carefully. I’m researching solutions for the rail crossing near Bailey Road schools and the congestion expected at the future downtown train station. These are critical concerns. I urge everyone to thoughtfully weigh the pros and cons before supporting this measure to ensure it truly serves our community without causing undue hardship.

Washam– As a current elected official, I cannot express support for or against the Sales Tax.  I have worked on the transit plan for five years and worked hard for this to be placed in the voters’ hands.  It is their decision to make. My hope is that they will fully educate themselves on the facts prior to voting.  We do provide a website that can be accessed through Cornelius.org for voters to review all the facts about what is being proposed.  I am available to answer questions or provide more details.

What, if anything, do you believe should be done to address affordable housing?

Washam– Affordable housing is a nationwide issue, and Cornelius is no exception.  This is why I created the Mayor’s Affordable Housing Task Force which led to the formation of the Cornelius Community Development Corporation (now Lake Norman CDC and initially funded by the town). The CDC has supported 83 people, mostly Baby Boomers, through programs like Rental Bridge, Critical Home Repair, and Senior Rental Relief. I’ve also backed the Smithville Community Coalition with funding, infrastructure and other resources for redevelopment during my tenure as mayor. My commitment to these critical efforts will continue.

Campbell– Affordable housing is important because with less and less affordable places to live here in Cornelius, we’re seeing the people who serve our community like our police officers, fire fighters, nurses, and teachers being forced to find places to live outside of Cornelius. I also support the revitalization of Smithville, including new affordable housing being built to protect against gentrification and displacement. As mayor, I’ll work towards solutions that help teachers, first responders, and existing families to continue to live here, while making sure new development matches the charm and character of Cornelius.

Bilodeau– Affordable housing should be addressed as a regional issue across the Lake Norman area. With only 13 square miles, Cornelius cannot tackle this challenge alone. The Lake Norman Community Development Corporation (LKN CDC) is a promising initiative, but it needs broader support from neighboring towns to be truly effective. Currently, it is primarily driven by Cornelius. As mayor, I will collaborate with other Lake Norman mayors to unify our efforts and strengthen regional participation in the LKN CDC. Together, we can develop more impactful and sustainable solutions to meet the housing needs of our entire region.

What will you do to promote conserving trees and green space amid development?

Bilodeau– Conservation should be an integral part of all development proposals to help preserve the natural character of our community as we grow. I believe developers should be required to incorporate green space, tree preservation, and environmental protection into their plans. In addition, I will strongly advocate for using park bond funds to support land banking—strategically acquiring property now for future parks, greenways, and open space. This forward-thinking approach ensures we preserve valuable land before it’s lost to development and keeps our long-term vision focused on a balanced, livable community for generations to come.

Washam– Trees and green space are crucial to a community and a small town like ours.  It adds to our beauty and small-town charm.  The acquisition of additional green space will be a very important factor for the future.  With the massive amount of road projects happening, tree conservation becomes more difficult, and many times is out of our control.  However, I pledge to work closely with NCDOT to minimize tree removal and ensure replenishment.  The board and I can and should control green space and tree canopy in any development that might occur in the future.

Campbell– As mayor I’ll push for stronger tree preservation ordinances, along with requiring developers to include meaningful green space in all new projects. I also support the expansion of our parks and greenway network – Cornelius is a beautiful place to live and I plan on making significant efforts to keep it that way.

Voting day: Tuesday, November 4

Early voting: Cornelius town hall hosts one of the early voting poll sites in Mecklenburg County. Voting begins October 16 and ends November 1.