Kenneth Gantt is one of three candidates on the Nov. 4 ballot running for the Ward One seat on the Fredericksburg City Council.
FREDERICKSBURG, VA — How Fredericksburg manages its growth, balancing new development with infrastructure, services, and fiscal responsibility, is the most pressing issue facing the city, according to Kenneth Gantt
“My intent is to bring greater community engagement into the planning, programming, and budgeting process, consistent with our city’s Vision 2050 priorities of sustainable growth and protecting community character,” he said.
Gantt is one of three candidates running in the Nov. 4 general election for the Ward One seat on the Fredericksburg City Council. He faces opponents David Wade Cropper and Matt Rowe. Early voting begins on Friday, Sept 19.
As part of its coverage of the 2025 election, Patch has asked each of the candidates in the Fredericksburg City Council race to fill out a questionnaire to describe why they think they’re the best person to fill the job for which they’re running. The following are Gantt’s responses.
Your Name
Kenneth Gantt
Position Sought
Councilman, Ward 1
Age
65
Family: Names, ages and any pertinent details you wish to share.
Mabel Gantt, Mom
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? This includes any relatives who work in the government you’re a candidate in.
Yes, I work for the federal government
Education
Not applicable
Occupation
Militarily Retiree, Federal Employee
Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Political Office
None
Why are you seeking elective office?
I am seeking office because serving my neighbors and community is an extension of the service I’ve dedicated my life to. As I concluded my time on the Planning Commission, I saw important decisions ahead for our city that require strong community voices. This campaign is not about titles or accolades—it’s about being present, listening, and ensuring Ward 1 has a seat at the table.
The single most pressing issue facing voters is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.
The most pressing issue is how Fredericksburg manages its growth—balancing new development with infrastructure, services, and fiscal responsibility. My intent is to bring greater community engagement into the planning, programming, and budgeting process, consistent with our city’s Vision 2050 priorities of sustainable growth and protecting community character.
What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I respect my opponents and know they care about Fredericksburg. The difference is my consistent presence and willingness to give the most valuable asset we have—our time. Over the past 20 years, I have invested that time in service: youth programs, HOA leadership, city commissions, and neighborhood outreach. For me, leadership is about showing up and staying engaged.
If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?
The current office holder has lost touch with neighbors and too often made decisions based on personal positions instead of community consensus. Even more concerning has been the lack of respect shown to constituents during council sessions. Fredericksburg deserves leaders who listen first and act as a voice for their neighbors.
Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.
My platform centers on:
Public engagement – involving neighbors early in decisions, not only when controversy arises.
Transparency – ensuring clarity in how projects are prioritized, funded, and managed.
Accountability – owning decisions, especially when outcomes fall short, and improving processes going forward.
These align with our city’s stated goals of open government and community collaboration.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
While I am proud of my 20+ years as a U.S. Army officer and combat veteran, my qualifications are rooted in two decades of service here in Fredericksburg: managing a youth football and cheer program, leading the Village of Idlewild HOA, serving on the Planning Commission and Police Citizen’s Advisory Panel, working with the Teen Violence Steering Committee, and supporting the Rappahannock Food Bank. I enjoy serving my neighbors.
The best advice ever shared with me was:
Take care of people, and everything else will fall into place.” That guidance has shaped me as a leader—one who listens, collaborates, and works alongside others to find solutions.
What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I chose Fredericksburg 20 years ago because of its history, its sense of community, and the strength of its people. I call The Burg home, and my service is a way of giving back for all it has given me. I believe that by strengthening community involvement, we can build on our history while ensuring a bright future, true to the values in Vision 2050.
Also See …
Matt Rowe Seeking Ward 1 Seat On Fredericksburg City Council
David Cropper Running For Fredericksburg City Council: Questionnaire
Jesse Dominguez Running For Fredericksburg City Council: Questionnaire
Joy Crump Seeks Fredericksburg City Council Seat In Ward Two