John Odom, candidate for Raleigh City Council At-Large
John Odom believes that the best long-term solutions are reached through hard-fought consensus and cooperation. John is an independent leader who is capable of standing for Raleigh while also working tirelessly with others to create innovative and sustainable solutions to Raleigh’s most pressing needs.
John’s proven leadership and experience include 16 years on the Raleigh City Council, during which time he worked to make sure we all have access to good roads, beautiful parks and greenways, and balanced growth, while also maintaining a commitment to LOW TAXES. During his time as a former councilman, John was known for identifying and solving problems and strengthening our city through continual communication with both council and community.
Currently
John serves on the board of Raleigh Crime Stoppers since 1997. Raleigh Crime Stoppers works with the police, the media, and the community to create a confidential flow of information about crime and criminals. Crime Stoppers is an anonymous way to give tips to help solve crime. Please help us by going to RALEIGHCRIMESTOPPERS.ORG to make a donation.
Today John is currently serving on the Convention Center Commission. This is important because the interlocal funds are very important to Raleigh. The Commission recommends to the City Council how best to spend the funds.
John also serves as Chairman of Wake County Human Services CAC which listens to the public on issues that are important to the county as a whole. We try to communicate with the communities, non-profits, and businesses as to what services are available from the county.
Vietnam Veteran
John served in the Army 1967-1968 in Vietnam as a combat squad leader. John on the right is pictured with Jimmy Aguirre who won the Distinguished Service Cross. Jimmy had the honor of having his medal awarded to him by General Westmoreland. John was wounded and awarded a Purple Heart.
Currently, John is a member of North Carolina Vietnam Veterans Inc. (NCVVI). They go into local high schools and share their experiences of their service in Vietnam.
Accomplishments
- 46 years as a small business owner in Raleigh
- 16 years on Raleigh City Council representing District B
- Deputy Mayor or Mayor Pro-tem under Mayors Coble, Meeker, and McFarland
- Served as chairman or member of all committees in the City of Raleigh during 16 years on Council
Integral to the City Council passing the Dix Park Plan - Worked with State and County to create the PNC Arena, the Raleigh Convention Center, and renovation to Memorial Auditorium without raising taxes
- Acquired votes to purchase Horseshoe Farm Nature Park, Buffalo Road Park and Aquatic Center, expansion of WRAL soccer fields, Annie Louise Wilkerson Nature Park, and expansion of Durant Park
- Lead Council to create Bedford Falls River and Woodspring neighborhoods and acquired funding for water and sewer to allow these neighborhoods to grow
- 100 % support to establishing a great greenway system throughout Raleigh
- 22 years as Executive Director of the Greater Raleigh Merchants Association
- Spearheaded the creation of Shop Local Raleigh
- Created and designed the Raleigh Christmas Parade for 25 years
- John has been married for 51 years and has 2 children and 5 grandchildren