Candidate Questionnaire: Kip Malcolm for North Topsail Beach Alderman

1) What 3 changes, if any, would you like to see in the community you will be representing over the next four years?

I will be dedicated to a vision for North Topsail Beach that includes these three pillars: public safety and emergency management; coastal resilience; and building a stronger sense of community. As a retired law enforcement officer, and current reserve police officer for the Town, I understand that a proactive approach to public safety is essential - from daily operations, partnerships with the region, and comprehensive disaster preparedness. This goes hand-in-hand with our need to protect our shores. I will ensure that we are taking the necessary steps to protect our homes and natural resources from our changing environment and constant growth. Finally, I will work to engage and connect our residents, homeowners, and visitors with the Town so that we can build a strong community together by including many voices to build our future.

2) What strategy will you implement to respond to public concerns and criticisms?

I believe that every resident, owner, and visitors' voices are valuable to ensuring the success of our Town. I look to increase and improve accessibility, direct engagement, and transparency by meeting regularly with neighborhood groups, homeowners associations, and civic groups in and around our Town. For residents unable to meet in person, my webpage, email and social media channels will all provide accessible platforms for communication and feedback. I'll be proactively listening to concerns and addressing any criticisms before they escalate.

3) How do you plan to measure and evaluate your success in office?

The most effective ways to evaluate success is through tangible results and community feedback. To measure progress, I will ensure timely updates on any planned projects and demand accountability when we fall short of our goals. I will listen to the voices in our community by allowing direct feedback. If, at the end of my four years in office, I have not demonstrated clear progress on issues that matter most to our community, I would not seek re-election thus allowing new voices and fresh ideas to guide our community forward.

4) Can you give an example of how you have supported a community project in the past?

Being an active member and Vice President of the Ocean City Beach Citizens Council has given me a direct way to support our community. For years, we have worked to preserve the history and beauty of this historic neighborhood through hands-on projects and community events. This includes raising funds to rebuild our private beach crossover and hosting neighborhood gatherings like our annual Labor Day block party. I've also been a dedicated volunteer for the Ocean City Jazz Festival, an event that not only celebrates heritage and music, but also strengthens our local culture and economy. These actions demonstrate my commitment to bringing people together and directly improving our community.

5) What personal or professional experience do you have that makes you qualified to serve your community?

My long career in law enforcement has instilled a deep commitment to public safety and a practical understanding of how to build trust within a community. I've worked on the front lines responding to emergencies and I have worked behind-the-scenes with local, state, and federal government partners to strengthen our community. Since moving to North Topsail Beach, I've continued my dedication to service by becoming a reserve police officer, serving as the chairman of the Zoning Board of Adjustment, and working closely with the Ocean City Beach Citizens Council. My hands-on involvement shows my commitment to our Town and proves I am a leader who is willing to roll up my sleeves to get the job done.