Message from the Mayor Welcome to Grifton

A Message from Mayor William Barnes

Welcome to Grifton!

It is my honor to serve as your Mayor and to be part of a community where neighbors know one another, families put down roots, and people genuinely care about the place they call home. Grifton's greatest asset has always been its people, and together we have the opportunity to build an even stronger future while preserving the values that make our town so special.

As our nation prepares to celebrate America's 250th Anniversary, we also have an opportunity to reflect on our own history and the generations who have helped shape Grifton. I hope you'll join us throughout the coming year as we celebrate our heritage, honor those who came before us, and look ahead to the next chapter of our community's story.

A thriving town depends on engaged citizens. Whether you're a lifelong resident or new to Grifton, I encourage you to get involved by attending Town Council meetings, volunteering at community events, or serving on one of our Citizen Advisory Boards (CABs). Your ideas, your time, and your voice help make Grifton a better place for everyone.

Together, we can continue to make Grifton a town where families flourish, businesses grow, and neighbors support one another. Thank you for your commitment to our community, and I look forward to seeing you at our next Town Hall meeting.

Sincerely,

William Barnes
Mayor, Town of Grifton

About Mayor William Barnes

Mayor William Barnes was sworn in on December 9, 2025, and serves as the Chief Elected Official of the Town of Grifton. Elected to a four-year term, Mayor Barnes presides over meetings of the Grifton Town Council and casts the deciding vote in the event of a tie.

Outside of his public service, Mayor Barnes is deeply committed to helping others. He manages a transition house that supports individuals recovering from addiction and those reentering society after incarceration, reflecting his belief that everyone deserves a second chance and the opportunity to succeed. He also helps people as an insurance adjuster, prioritizing the people's needs on a daily basis! 

A lifelong outdoorsman, Mayor Barnes enjoys hunting, fishing, working on boats, and spending time with his family. He believes Grifton's greatest strength is its close-knit, family-oriented community and is dedicated to preserving those values while guiding the town toward a bright future.