LELAND — Frank Pendleton, a sales executive, is running for one of two seats open on Leland Town Council this election year.
Pendleton said he wants to hold public office and provide representation for those who feel unheard.
“I believe in transparency, accountability, involvement and ensuring decisions reflect the people of Leland,” he said. “Though I’ve never held political office, I bring over 30 years of proven business leadership. I’ve managed large budgets, led diverse teams and overseen complex projects with a focus on efficiency and results. I know how to make tough decisions, find practical solutions and use resources wisely.”
Though the council is a nonpartisan race, Pendleton is affiliated with the Republican party. Four more candidates have filed, including incumbent Bill McHugh (D), along with Leland Hyer (R), Susan Waleed (D), and Edgar Robbins (I). Incumbent Richard Holloman (R) also filed, however, he has dropped out of the race.
Port City Daily asked all candidates a slate of questions about topics that are tracking high with voters and residents of Leland currently. Pendleton’s answers have been edited below for clarity.
A few things to consider this election season:
- A valid ID is required to cast ballot in North Carolina
- Election Day is Nov. 4, 2025, with voters required to go to their assigned precinct locations
- Early voting opens Oct. 16 and closes Nov. 1, and Leland voters can cast a ballot at the Cooperative Extension Training Room, 25 Referendum Drive, Building N, Bolivia. See the hours here.
- Anyone who wants to register to vote can do so here through Oct. 10 or register and vote in one stop during early voting
The paywall has been dropped on candidate profiles to help voters make informed decisions ahead of the election. Candidate opinions and statements are not a reflection of Port City Daily.
Port City Daily: What makes you qualified for a seat on council and sets you apart from other candidates?
FP: I’m qualified to serve on the Leland Town Council because of my decades of leadership experience outside of politics and my many years of community involvement. I understand how to set priorities, stay accountable and use resources effectively. What sets me apart is that I bring a practical, common-sense approach- not political ambition. My focus will always be on solutions that make life better for the people of Leland.
PCD: In the last year, what’s been dubbed a flooding ordinance has become a hot topic for addressing smart growth and development in Leland. Do you support it, why or why not? If not, how do you think council should address strengthening protections for homes built in or near floodplains?
FP: The flooding ordinance is an important conversation, especially after what we experienced with Tropical Cyclone Eight. This ordinance was tabled in July of this year for further discussion and investigation. I do support the idea because protecting homes and businesses from future flooding has to be a priority. I think that all of the impacts need to be reviewed and that the developers do need to be held accountable for their projects and how they impact Leland. My commitment is to make sure that whatever is passed is fair, effective and protects our community without creating unintended hardships.
PCD: What does balancing green space with development look like in your view, such as when it comes to protecting wetlands or the tree canopy? Do you have examples of cities or developments that have done this successfully and what would you like to see done in Leland?
FP: I believe that wetlands, tree canopy and natural areas are not obstacles to progress but assets that improve quality of life and property values. I’d like to see Leland adopt clear standards that require developers to integrate parks, trails, and natural areas into projects while still allowing for responsible growth
PCD: In 2024, there was a 17% tax rate increase in Leland; were you in favor of this — why or why not? Do you think the current tax rate is sustainable?
FP: I’ve heard from many residents about the impact of last year‘s tax increase and I understand their concerns. My focus is on making sure taxpayer dollars are used responsibly, budgets are managed efficiently, and priorities reflect the needs of our community. Anytime taxes are raised it should be a last resort.
I believe the town must first look closely at spending, cut waste and make sure every dollar is used wisely. My priority is in ensuring Leland‘s budget is transparent, efficient and accountable so residents know their money is being managed responsibly.
PCD: With the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge price tag escalating to more than $1 billion, how to fund it also remains debated. Both a toll has been floated and a transit sales tax, which would need voter approval potentially in a tri-county referendum that could include multiple projects in New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick counties. Do you support either and/or is there another option you think should be considered to fund the bridge replacement?
FP: Replacing the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge is essential for safety, commerce and daily life in our region. Given the scale of the project, I believe a regional approach makes the most sense — one that involves all three counties, state and federal partners and considers multiple funding options. Tolls and a transit sales tax are on the table, but I think it’s important to fully explore all possibilities and make sure the solution is fair for residents while getting the bridge built efficiently.
PCD: Traffic is a main complaint for Leland residents — how do you envision the town’s role in addressing it? Do you think Leland should implement public transportation? How so? Do you think the current plan to maintain and improve the roads it owns is/will be effective — explain.
FP: Leland has not just grown in the past few years; there has been a population explosion. Traffic is one of the top concerns I hear from residents and it’s understandable given the number of new residents and businesses. I believe our town’s current plan needs to be updated to reflect the new population and businesses that have moved in. My vision is for Leland to take a proactive role: coordinating with NCDOT along with regional partners, reviewing roads and traffic patterns, exploring public transportation options, and creating a safe way for pedestrians and bicyclists to cross Highway 17. This currently does not exist. The goal is to keep traffic flowing.
PCD: As Leland continues to see an influx of residents, how do you think council should ensure Leland’s economy keeps pace and opportunities remain varied across all ages and types of households — how will you balance economic growth and quality of life?
FP: Leland‘s growth is exciting, but it also means we have to be intentional about maintaining a strong, diverse economy that works for residents of all ages and household types. I believe the town council should focus on attracting a mix of businesses as well as light industry, supporting local entrepreneurs, and ensuring that the businesses that are brought in meet the needs of both young families and longtime residents. At the same time, we need to protect and expand our parks, green space and recreational opportunities because quality life isn’t just about jobs. It’s also about having safe, welcoming places where families and neighbors can gather.
PCD: The town has discussed its approach to promoting commercial property in Leland, with only 5% of the town’s acreage being zoned for commercial use as of last year. How important of an issue is this to you and what do you think the town should and/or should not do to promote commercial development?
FP: I believe promoting light commercial development in Leland is a smart approach. It brings jobs and generates revenue for our community while typically creating less congestion than larger apartment complexes and single-family homes. Encouraging this kind of development can also support local services, and provide amenities that enhance residents’ day-to-day lives.
PCD: What is one other issue not discussed above that you have a plan to address if elected and how would you do so?
FP: I would address the use of clear-cut burning of trees and debris by developers. While this may have been tolerated in the past, it’s no longer acceptable. We need healthier, safer alternatives like hauling off or chipping of debris so development doesn’t come at the cost of our air quality and quality of life. As a member of the Leland Town Council I would advocate for practical alternatives to burning. In many cases, developers simply sell the lumber and burn the remaining debris, but with our population growing so rapidly, we have an obligation to protect resident’s health and safety, prevent air pollution, and maintain the quality of life that makes Leland a great place to live.
Want to read more from PCD? Subscribe now and then sign up for our morning newsletter, Wilmington Wire, and get the headlines delivered to your inbox every morning.
