Sheldon Poplin Morley to Run for Mayor

Hello, friends!

My name is Sheldon Poplin Morley, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for the office of Mayor for the beautiful town of Mount Gilead. In a moment, I’m going to ask for your vote, but first, I’d like to tell you a bit about who I am and what

makes me the right person for the job.

Like many folks around here, I grew up a military brat who was always on the move. I’ve lived as far away as Honolulu, as close as Cherry Point, and a dozen places in between, but it is in Mount Gilead where I finally found Home.

My lovely wife, who represents generations of history in this town, introduced me to Mount Gilead more than a decade ago, and I immediately fell in love. So much so, that when the time came to put down roots, Mount Gilead was the only place we wanted to move to. It’s where we chose to raise our family. It’s home.

However, I understand that Mount Gilead is not without its share of unique challenges. To face those challenges, we need a clear vision from someone who can look to the future while also respecting the solid foundation of the past. I sincerely believe that I am that person.

I first began to understand the importance of civic engagement when I became a Mason at the age of 21. It was through the Masons that I learned the joy of service, the value of sacrifice, and the importance of always striving to be a better person. Those foundational lessons have carried me through my entire adult life, and I’m so grateful for them.

As far as practical experience goes, I've managed several smaller, non-municipal communities throughout my career. I have a long history of work in the administrative field, which I believe sets me apart and makes me uniquely qualified for this position. I’m also a member of three labor unions, so I understand the power that we - you and I, together - can achieve by banding together in common cause.

If elected, I promise to never stop working to bring this town closer together. I won’t waste your time focusing on our differences or complaining without doing. I will set an agenda that serves the good of the people, and I will always strive to inject positivity, hope, vision, and engagement into our local politics. I’ll work with the town manager and administration to explore grants and opportunities to make real improvements in the lives of our residents. Things like restoring Stanback Park to its former glory, installing sidewalks in underserved parts of the community, and bringing a Farmer’s market back to our downtown. These are all achievable goals.

Now, we all know that Mount Gilead has faced some tough challenges recently: violence, reckless drivers on our roads, limited sidewalk access, and perhaps most importantly, a growing sense of division among our community. It is my sincere desire to address those concerns, to heal old wounds, and to create a sense of unity. I believe that we can tackle these issues head-on and create a safer, more unified Mount Gilead. But I can't do that alone. I need your support, your ideas, and your involvement.

We are a diverse community with an abundance of heart and pride. We’ve got a long history and a bright future, so let’s write a new chapter in Mount Gilead's story together, a chapter filled with hope and prosperity for all.

So, my friends, I'm here to ask for your trust, your support, and your vote. In November, please vote for Sheldon Poplin Morley for Mayor of the town of Mount Gilead.

Thank you for hearing me out. I look forward to having an opportunity to speak with you!