Submitted
Kevin ‘Woody’ Rider has announced he will run for Carmel Mayor.
Rider is a Carmel business owner, four-term At Large Carmel City Councilor, and has been a Carmel resident for 35 years.
“Throughout my professional and public service career, I’ve always been motivated by serving people,” Rider said. “Running for Mayor is a natural next step for me. I love the city of Carmel. And, for me, serving as Mayor is all about solving challenges, proactively planning, and continuing to lead innovation in our city.”
As an At Large City Councilor, Rider has played a role in the projects that have made Carmel the city it is today. He says his time on the city council, Carmel Plan Commission, and being a Carmel business owner gives him a unique perspective for Mayor.
Rider says he has set clear and transparent communication as a priority.
“I get a lot of questions as a councilor on Carmel’s approach to finances,” Rider said. “Most of those questions can be answered through robust education and clear information. I intend on rolling out community meetings that will provide detailed information, along with other initiatives, to keep residents fully informed on all things Carmel finances.”
In the Arts & Design and Midtown districts, Rider owns the restaurants ‘divvy’ and Woody’s Library. Rider’s restaurants have been in business for a combined 36 years. Rider says his experience as an entrepreneur lends itself as a strong background for running a thriving city.
“Kevin has been a close colleague and friend for many years,” At Large Carmel City Councilor Jeff Worrell said. “His dedication to the city of Carmel and its residents is clear through his work on the Council. He is a strong leader, and someone who will serve our city well. I support Kevin’s decision to run for Mayor and look forward to working hard to keep Carmel one of the best communities in America.”
Outside of Rider’s professional career, he has been a board member for the Cherish Center for 11 years, founded Feeding Neighbors, and is a 23-year serving member of Northview Church. Rider and his wife Richelle are passionate about volunteering for the Hamilton County Humane Society and adopting senior dogs.
Visit riderforcarmel.com for more information about the candidate.