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Justin Whiteside

Title: Town Administrator

Municipality: Town of Ocean Isle Beach

Position Interested In: At Large - Manager

 

Q&A's:

Tell us why you would like to serve in a leadership position at the League. In particular, specify goals you would like to accomplish as an officer or board member and indicate how, if attained, they will help to achieve Vision 2030 – the League’s future vision of how cities and towns will operate in 2030?

I want to serve in a leadership role at the League because I believe working together is the best way to tackle the challenges facing North Carolina’s towns and cities. After nearly 22 years in local government, I’ve seen how important strong advocacy, shared resources, and smart planning are to keeping our communities thriving.

Vision 2030 could have been written today—the same issues from 2014 are still front and center. As a board member, I’d focus on:

• Protecting Local Decision-Making – Ensuring towns and cities control their own planning and zoning.
• Encouraging Regional Collaboration – Helping municipalities, counties, and the state work together, especially in fast-growing areas like mine.
• Keeping Municipalities Strong and Resilient – Supporting policies that help towns adapt to challenges like rapid growth, infrastructure needs, and economic shifts.

I want to help make Vision 2030 a reality and make sure municipalities have a strong voice and the resources they need to succeed.

Tell us about your experience as a municipal official. You may want to include information on your service on the municipal governing body, other related boards and special areas of interest?

I have dedicated my entire career to serving the Town of Ocean Isle Beach. Starting as a Code Enforcement Officer, I worked my way through the ranks as Planning & Inspections Director and Assistant Town Administrator before assuming my current role as Town Administrator. This progression has given me a comprehensive understanding of municipal operations from multiple perspectives. I have firsthand experience with the responsibilities of each department and how they collaborate to ensure the town functions efficiently.

My background allows me to balance regulatory enforcement, long-term planning, and daily administration while maintaining a strong connection to the needs of our community.

Tell us about your educational background, professional experience, and/or community or civic activities?

I have a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Appalachian State University and have completed many professional development courses at the UNC School of Government.

Beyond my work in municipal government, I have been actively involved in community and professional organizations. I served on the Town of Shallotte Planning Board, including time as Chairman, and currently serve as Vice-Chairman of the NC Beach, Inlet, and Waterway Association. Additionally, I am a member of the NC League of Municipalities Legislative Policy Committee and President of the Parent Advisory Council at Union Elementary School. In 2025, I am currently attending the NC Institute of Political Leadership’s Spring class.

These experiences have strengthened my ability to work with diverse stakeholders, navigate policy challenges, and advocate for municipalities across North Carolina.

 

Have You Participated in Any NCLM Events or Committees? 

  • Town & State Dinner or Town Hall Days

  • Legislative Policy Committee

  • Legislative Goals Planning Events or Process

  • Affiliate Organization: NCCCMA

 

Please provide any other information you would like the Nominations Committee to consider.

Serving on the League’s Board of Directors would be a privilege, and I would embrace it as a true workhorse. I am someone who listens, learns, and puts in the effort to make a difference for municipalities across North Carolina.

I would be honored to serve in this statewide role. Living and working in the southeastern corner of North Carolina, I sometimes feel isolated from the rest of the state (At times, even lumped in with South Carolina...). One of the best things about the League is its focus on small and medium-sized towns, ensuring that communities like mine have a voice. That mission resonates with me because I’ve always seen myself as an underdog, someone who pushes forward, works hard, and fights for the everyday citizens who rely on their local government.

North Carolina is changing fast, and local leaders need a strong voice now more than ever. As a member of the League’s Legislative Policy Committee, I’ve already been advocating for our towns, but I want to take that work further. I believe in local decision-making, smart growth, and regional collaboration because I’ve seen firsthand how these things shape the future of our communities.

If given this opportunity, I will work tirelessly to represent our municipalities, ensuring they have the tools, resources, and policies they need to succeed. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to the opportunity to serve.