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Nicholas Peters (Mayor of Sunset Beach, North Carolina, candidate 2025)
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Nicholas Peters ran for election for Mayor of Sunset Beach in North Carolina. He was on the ballot in the general election on November 4, 2025.[source]
Peters completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.
[1]Biography
Nicholas Peters provided the following biographical information via Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey on August 12, 2025:
- Birth date: October 31, 1979
- Birth place: Santa Barbra, California
- Gender: Male
- Religion: Christian: Baptist
- Profession: Business Owner and President
- Incumbent officeholder: No
- Campaign slogan: "Sunset Beach First — Integrity, Progress, Community."
- Campaign website
- Campaign Facebook
Elections
General election
General election for Mayor of Sunset Beach
Nicholas Peters and Shannon Phillips ran in the general election for Mayor of Sunset Beach on November 4, 2025.
Candidate | ||
 | Nicholas Peters (Nonpartisan)  | |
| Shannon Phillips (Nonpartisan) | ||
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| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Election results
Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Peters in this election.
Campaign themes
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Nicholas Peters completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Peters' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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I’m Nicholas Peters, a builder, entrepreneur, and proud resident of Sunset Beach. For decades, I’ve led Peters Custom Homes, Inc., where I’ve managed complex construction projects—balancing budgets, meeting deadlines, and always striving for exceptional quality. My career has taught me that leadership means listening, making informed decisions, and earning trust through consistent results.
My wife, Miriam, and I chose Sunset Beach as our retirement home because of its beauty, charm, and community spirit. We care deeply about preserving what makes this town special while also addressing the infrastructure, environmental, and economic challenges that come with growth.
I’m running for Mayor because I believe in transparency, collaboration, and common-sense solutions. I want to ensure our town’s future is shaped by the voices of our residents. My vision is to protect our coastal environment, strengthen our infrastructure, and keep Sunset Beach a place where families, retirees, and visitors all feel welcome.
Outside of work, I enjoy boating, golfing, and spending time with my family—especially Ozzie, our lovable pug who keeps us laughing. I’m ready to put my experience, dedication, and love for this community to work for the people of Sunset Beach.- I am committed to restoring transparency, trust, and accountability in Sunset Beach government. Every resident deserves open communication, clear decision-making, and leadership that puts community first.
- As a builder and business owner, I understand the importance of smart, sustainable growth. My goal is to protect our small-town charm while improving infrastructure, enhancing stormwater management, and ensuring long-term environmental resilience.
- I believe in listening first. By working collaboratively with residents, business owners, and town staff, we can create policies that reflect the values of the people who call Sunset Beach home.
I am deeply focused on responsible coastal development, environmental stewardship, and protecting the character of Sunset Beach. I am passionate about improving stormwater and drainage systems, maintaining our waterways and beaches, and ensuring fiscal responsibility in all town projects. Above all, I believe in policy-making that is rooted in community input, data-driven solutions, and a shared vision for a thriving, welcoming town.
I looked up to my father, who taught me the value of hard work, integrity, and treating every person with respect—regardless of their background or position. He led by example, showing me that leadership isn’t about titles or recognition, but about serving others and doing the right thing even when no one is watching.
In public life, I’m inspired by leaders who balance vision with humility—those who are willing to listen as much as they speak and who never lose sight of the community they serve. That’s the example I want to follow: a leader who makes principled decisions, builds consensus, and leaves things better than they found them.
In public life, I’m inspired by leaders who balance vision with humility—those who are willing to listen as much as they speak and who never lose sight of the community they serve. That’s the example I want to follow: a leader who makes principled decisions, builds consensus, and leaves things better than they found them.
Yes — The Servant: A Simple Story About the True Essence of Leadership by James C. Hunter has had a lasting influence on how I approach leadership and public service. It reinforces the principle that true leadership is about serving others first, listening intently, and leading by example.
I believe that mayors, like all public officials, must view themselves as public servants above all else. The book’s central idea—that authority comes not from a title, but from earning respect through integrity, empathy, and accountability—aligns directly with how I aim to lead Sunset Beach.
Integrity, transparency, and the willingness to listen are non-negotiable. An elected official should put the needs of residents above personal or political interests, communicate openly, and remain accountable for every decision made on behalf of the community.
I bring a combination of vision, determination, and a proven ability to deliver results. My career as a builder and business owner has taught me how to manage complex projects, balance budgets, meet deadlines, and navigate competing priorities without losing focus on the bigger picture. I pride myself on being a proactive problem solver who doesn’t shy away from tough conversations, but always seeks solutions that work for the community as a whole.
I’m approachable and willing to listen—whether the person in front of me agrees with me or not—because I believe good leadership starts with understanding. My integrity and transparency guide every decision I make, and I’m committed to earning and keeping the trust of the people I serve. These traits, coupled with my deep investment in the future of Sunset Beach, are what I believe will make me a successful and effective mayor.
I’m approachable and willing to listen—whether the person in front of me agrees with me or not—because I believe good leadership starts with understanding. My integrity and transparency guide every decision I make, and I’m committed to earning and keeping the trust of the people I serve. These traits, coupled with my deep investment in the future of Sunset Beach, are what I believe will make me a successful and effective mayor.
The mayor must be the bridge between residents, council, and staff — ensuring government works for the people. That means fostering collaboration, safeguarding fiscal responsibility, protecting our environment, and making thoughtful, forward-looking decisions that preserve the character of Sunset Beach while addressing its most pressing needs.
I want my legacy to be one of unity, progress, and preservation. I hope to be remembered as a mayor who listened first, acted decisively, and put the community’s well-being above politics or personal gain. My goal is to strengthen Sunset Beach’s infrastructure and resilience while safeguarding the natural beauty and character that make our town so special.
I want future generations to inherit a Sunset Beach where growth is smart and sustainable, local businesses thrive, and residents feel they have a voice in shaping their town. If, years from now, people can say I helped create a more transparent, responsive, and forward-thinking government while keeping our small-town charm intact, I’ll consider my work a success.
I want future generations to inherit a Sunset Beach where growth is smart and sustainable, local businesses thrive, and residents feel they have a voice in shaping their town. If, years from now, people can say I helped create a more transparent, responsive, and forward-thinking government while keeping our small-town charm intact, I’ll consider my work a success.
The first historical event I clearly remember was the morning of September 11, 2001. I was in my early twenties, just starting to build my career, when the news came through about the attacks. I remember exactly where I was, the stillness in the air, and how quickly life seemed to change in those moments.
That day left a deep impression on me—not just for the tragedy and loss, but for the way people came together afterward. It showed me the importance of unity, resilience, and leadership in times of crisis. Those values have stayed with me and continue to shape how I approach challenges today, both in business and in community service.
That day left a deep impression on me—not just for the tragedy and loss, but for the way people came together afterward. It showed me the importance of unity, resilience, and leadership in times of crisis. Those values have stayed with me and continue to shape how I approach challenges today, both in business and in community service.
My very first job was working for my family’s small construction business during summer breaks in high school. I started out doing the not-so-glamorous tasks—cleaning up job sites, hauling materials, and organizing tools—but it taught me two valuable lessons that have shaped my life: the value of hard work and the importance of doing every job with pride, no matter how small.
I worked there for several summers before moving into more skilled roles, eventually learning the ins and outs of building homes from the ground up. That early experience not only sparked my passion for construction and community building, but also instilled in me the belief that leadership means never being afraid to roll up your sleeves and get the job done alongside your team.
I worked there for several summers before moving into more skilled roles, eventually learning the ins and outs of building homes from the ground up. That early experience not only sparked my passion for construction and community building, but also instilled in me the belief that leadership means never being afraid to roll up your sleeves and get the job done alongside your team.
My favorite book is The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. Its principles on leadership, personal responsibility, and long-term vision have shaped how I approach both business and community service. I appreciate how it emphasizes building trust, fostering collaboration, and focusing on solutions—values I believe are essential for any public servant, especially a mayor.
If I could be any fictional character, I’d choose Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird.
Atticus embodies integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to doing what’s right — even when it’s unpopular or difficult. He listens more than he speaks, treats everyone with respect, and stands firm on his principles. Those are qualities I strive to live by in my personal life and ones I would bring to serving as Mayor of Sunset Beach: fairness, a steady hand in challenging times, and the belief that leadership is about service, not self-interest.
Atticus embodies integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to doing what’s right — even when it’s unpopular or difficult. He listens more than he speaks, treats everyone with respect, and stands firm on his principles. Those are qualities I strive to live by in my personal life and ones I would bring to serving as Mayor of Sunset Beach: fairness, a steady hand in challenging times, and the belief that leadership is about service, not self-interest.
The last song that got stuck in my head was "Carolina in My Mind" by James Taylor. As someone who loves living in North Carolina, the lyrics feel like they were written for our coastal lifestyle, and I often catch myself humming it while walking through Sunset Beach. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and state pride—and once it’s in your head, it stays there all day.
One of my greatest struggles has been balancing an ambitious career with maintaining a healthy personal life. As a business owner, husband, and active community member, there have been times when the demands of work and leadership threatened to consume all my time and energy. I’ve learned—sometimes the hard way—that success isn’t just about professional achievements, but also about making time for family, health, and personal fulfillment.
This struggle taught me the value of setting boundaries, delegating effectively, and building strong teams. It also reinforced my belief that leaders must model balance, because when you care for yourself and those around you, you’re better equipped to care for your community.
This struggle taught me the value of setting boundaries, delegating effectively, and building strong teams. It also reinforced my belief that leaders must model balance, because when you care for yourself and those around you, you’re better equipped to care for your community.
To me, being mayor means setting the tone for the entire community—leading with integrity, listening with empathy, and acting with decisiveness. A true leader doesn’t just make decisions from behind a desk; they walk the streets, talk to residents, and see challenges and opportunities firsthand. The mayor must be a unifier, someone who brings together diverse perspectives to create solutions that benefit the whole community. Leadership also means being willing to make tough choices when necessary, always grounded in what is best for the people you serve. It’s about transparency, trust, and ensuring that every resident feels heard and valued. Above all, the mayor should embody the values, character, and spirit of the town, inspiring others to get involved and work together to protect what makes Sunset Beach so special.
The mayor’s top priority should be to serve as the bridge between the residents, the council, and the city manager—ensuring that the community’s voice is consistently reflected in policy decisions and operational priorities. While the city manager oversees daily administration, the mayor should focus on setting a clear vision, fostering unity within the council, and championing transparency in governance. This includes listening actively to residents, ensuring the city manager has the resources and direction to implement council-approved initiatives, and holding all branches of local government accountable to high standards of service and fiscal responsibility. The mayor must keep the big picture in focus, guiding the council and city manager toward long-term goals that strengthen infrastructure, protect the environment, and preserve the unique character of Sunset Beach.
The mayor and the city council should operate as strategic partners with clearly defined roles. The mayor’s responsibility is to manage the daily operations of the town, implement policies, and ensure efficient delivery of services. The council’s role is to set policy direction, approve budgets, and represent the will of the residents. An ideal relationship is built on mutual respect, open communication, and a shared commitment to transparency. By meeting regularly, sharing information freely, and focusing on solutions rather than politics, the mayor and council can work together to make decisions that reflect both the community’s needs and long-term vision.
I love the balance of beauty and community here — the sunsets that stop you in your tracks, the neighbors who wave from their porches, and the shared pride we have in protecting our coastal home.
Our biggest challenges are balancing growth with preservation, improving stormwater and infrastructure resilience, and ensuring responsible fiscal management. We must also address environmental threats, protect our waterways, and maintain the small-town charm that makes Sunset Beach so special.
The ideal relationship is one of partnership, where the state government provides resources, technical expertise, and legislative support while respecting the unique needs and priorities of Sunset Beach. We should work closely with state agencies on matters like coastal protection, infrastructure improvements, environmental safeguards, and public safety funding—ensuring that state-level policies work for, not against, our local priorities. At the same time, it’s essential that our town maintains a strong, independent voice to advocate for our residents and protect our community’s character.
The ideal relationship is one built on mutual respect, open communication, and strategic collaboration. Sunset Beach should maintain its local autonomy while working closely with federal agencies on issues like coastal resilience, disaster preparedness, environmental protection, and infrastructure funding. The federal government can be a powerful partner in securing grants, protecting our waterways, and providing resources in times of crisis, but it’s our responsibility to ensure those partnerships are used to advance the priorities and values of our residents.
Why don’t skeletons fight each other?
Because they don’t have the guts.
Because they don’t have the guts.
The relationship should be built on mutual trust, respect, and open communication. The mayor should ensure law enforcement has the resources, training, and community support they need, while also promoting transparency and accountability in public safety operations.
Our campaign is currently in conversations with community members, business leaders, and local organizations, and we will release endorsements as they are confirmed.
I believe that financial transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of good government. Taxpayers deserve to know exactly how their money is being spent, and that means open budgets, clear reporting, and accessible records that any resident can understand without needing a law degree. I support regular public updates on town finances, independent audits, and making all contracts, expenditures, and meeting minutes easily available online.
Government accountability goes hand in hand with transparency—officials must not only follow the rules but also set a higher standard of ethics. That means owning mistakes, correcting them quickly, and making sure decisions are made in the public’s best interest, not behind closed doors. As mayor, I will push for a “no surprises” policy with residents, so the community is informed early and often, and can trust that their leaders are acting responsibly and in good faith.
Government accountability goes hand in hand with transparency—officials must not only follow the rules but also set a higher standard of ethics. That means owning mistakes, correcting them quickly, and making sure decisions are made in the public’s best interest, not behind closed doors. As mayor, I will push for a “no surprises” policy with residents, so the community is informed early and often, and can trust that their leaders are acting responsibly and in good faith.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
See also
2025 Elections
External links
Footnotes
