Diane Folk for China Grove Town Council

I am running for China Grove Town Council because I believe in the power of neighborly collaboration. Our town is at a pivotal crossroads, where we must balance our cherished small-town character with the inevitable demands of growth and modernization.

Building a Stronger Community Together

A Vision for China Grove

1. Fiscal Responsibility

Be a careful steward of taxpayer dollars.
Prioritize essential services and infrastructure improvements.
Pursue grants and partnerships to reduce the financial burden on residents.
Encourage community input on budgeting and spending priorities.

2. Supporting Our Businesses

Encourage locally owned businesses and entrepreneurship.
Promote events that bring residents and visitors downtown while strengthening community connections.
Support beautification projects and façade improvements.
Partner with business owners to strengthen economic vitality and create a welcoming downtown environment.

3. Parks, Recreation, and Quality of Life

Maintain and improve parks, trails, and recreational facilities.
Support community events and programs that bring residents together.
Expand opportunities for outdoor recreation, healthy lifestyles, and family activities.

4. Transparent and Accessible Government

Keep residents informed about council decisions and town initiatives.
Encourage citizen participation in local government.
Be accessible and responsive to residents' questions and concerns.
Make decisions based on facts, community input, and the long-term interests of China Grove.

5. Strong Public Safety

Continue investing in police, fire, and emergency services.
Support competitive compensation and training to attract and retain qualified personnel.
Enhance emergency preparedness through ongoing training, planning, and community partnerships.

6. Infrastructure and Transportation

Work with NCDOT to improve roads, reduce congestion, and enhance public safety.
Address traffic concerns at key intersections and in areas experiencing growth.
Expand connectivity between neighborhoods, parks, schools, and downtown.
Support long-term planning for stormwater and other critical infrastructure needs.

7. Responsible Growth and Development

Support smart, well-planned growth that preserves China Grove's character and small-town charm.
Encourage quality residential and commercial development.
Work with NCDOT and other agencies to address the transportation and infrastructure challenges created by growth.

A Stronger China Grove — Built on Responsible Leadership, Community, and Service

About Diane Folk

I am proud to call China Grove home and have been actively involved in our community for many years. My commitment to public service and community involvement includes:

Attending China Grove Town Council meetings regularly since December 2021.
Speaking as a citizen on issues related to responsible spending, transparency, and community needs.
Serving on the China Grove Planning Board.
Active membership in the Rotary Club of China Grove.
Participating in and supporting local faith and community organizations.
Volunteer with Meals on Wheels & Main Street Marketplace & Meeting Place

Originally from West Virginia, I have always enjoyed small-town living and the strong sense of community it provides. My family and I believe in being engaged neighbors and building meaningful relationships. Whether someone lives next door or across town, we are all part of the same community and share a responsibility to support one another.

My husband and I moved to Rowan County nine years ago and to China Grove in the fall of 2019. I served the students of Rowan County as the Outdoor Learning Educator at Horizons Unlimited and then in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program at Jesse C. Carson High School. My professional background includes both engineering and education:

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.
Master's Degree in Education.
Public school teacher in Virginia, Ohio, and Rowan County, North Carolina.
Engineering experience in both the federal government and private sector.

Our son is a graduate of UNC Charlotte and currently works in manufacturing here in our region.

My faith and my core values of integrity, honesty, and service guide every decision I make. I am committed to helping China Grove remain a community where families can thrive, businesses can succeed, and neighbors

continue to look out for one another.

"China Grove's future depends on thoughtful leadership, responsible growth, and a commitment to serving our residents. I will work to preserve the character of our town while planning for the opportunities and challenges ahead. Together, we can build a stronger China Grove for future generations."