Orville G. Dryden Jr. Announces His Candidacy for Salisbury City Council

Orville G. Dryden Jr. is proud to announce his candidacy for the Salisbury City Council. A native of the Eastern Shore, Orville Dryden grew up in the farming community, working on his parents’ farm at an early age. He quickly adopted the philosophy and values of hard work and perseverance. As a young man, Mr. Dryden transitioned from the farm to begin a career with the United States Postal Service while also serving as a proud member of the National Guard.  In his spare time, he assisted his father with a small grocery store. It was during these formative years, he witnessed first-hand the challenges of owning and operating a small business on the Eastern Shore.  Dryden notes, "I understand the difficulties people go through to keep the doors to their businesses open and I feel it is critical that local governments do all they can to promote a healthy environment for the local business community." Dryden feels the City of Salisbury, and the Salisbury City Council in particular, needs to look to businesses for the city’s economic growth and the engine to local prosperity. "If we’re pro-business, we’re pro-growth, and if we’re pro-growth, we’re on our way to more jobs, less crime and a higher revenue stream without the obtrusive barrage of new taxes, fees and fines.", Orville states.

Mr. Dryden also has experienced the responsibilities of managing large budgets and working with peers to make payroll and keep the work force motivated. As a former Supervisor with the United States Postal Service and 13 years as Postmaster, Mr. Dryden was responsible for multiple budgets, as well as a large and diverse staff.  He strived to continuously maintain a high level of excellent customer service throughout his career. This is the work ethic and respect for teamwork he hopes to continue with, if given the privilege to represent the City of Salisbury as a new council member. Dryden feels it is imperative that our City Council exemplify strong leadership, teamwork and consensus building among its members and our community as a whole.

Above all else, Dryden wants to put the City first. He states, "Whether it’s the members of our business community, the brave men and women of law enforcement or our fire departments; I feel it is important to, first and foremost, listen to the citizens of Salisbury and work hard every day to assure them of a safe and prosperous future. I have been a resident of Salisbury for the last 25 years, raising my two children right here, in the City of Salisbury.  Both attended and graduated from Parkside High school. Additionally, my daughter then pursued a degree from Salisbury University and graduated with distinction in 1999. I am invested in this community and I want to see it thrive for future generations."

 Dryden feels that his "common sense approach" and his past experiences will enable him to work together to find the solutions to the many serious issues now facing our city. Whether its crime, the economy, budgets or business, he is looking forward for the opportunity to create unity within our community so our citizens can continue to enjoy all of the benefits that Salisbury has been known for in the past.  "I look forward to the challenges that lie ahead and am proud to have the opportunity to run for the City Council of Salisbury."

Age:     63

Civic Organizations:      Dryden has been a member of the Lions Club for 40 years and has served in many capacities including president, is also a 40 year member of the American Legion, and a member of the Salisbury Moose Lodge, and various other organizations.