Special to Iredell Free News

In anticipation of the grand opening of the Officer Jordan H. Sheldon Memorial Dog Park on June 5, the Mooresville Youth Council is sponsoring the 2021 Mooresville “Dog Mayor” Contest on its Instagram account.

The contest provides a fun opportunity for residents of all ages to give their beloved four-legged friend a chance to be Mooresville’s “Dog Mayor” at the upcoming event at Cornelius Road Park. The “Dog Mayor” contest was suggested to Mooresville Mayor Miles Atkins by Mrs. Morrison’s third-grade class at Rocky River Elementary School. The class was learning about local government and was inspired to suggest this unique contest to celebrate the park’s opening.

Mayor Atkins encourages residents to take part in the contest, and to attend the grand opening, which kicks off at 9 a.m.

“The Officer Jordan H. Sheldon Memorial Dog Park will provide a well-deserved and lasting legacy for Officer Sheldon,” said Atkins. “I believe the Mooresville Youth Council’s ‘Dog Mayor’ contest is an exciting way to get our residents geared up for the grand opening and ready to not only celebrate Officer Sheldon’s life and service to our Town, but also to enjoy our newest place to make wonderful memories with their families and pets.”

Contestants can enter for their dog’s chance to win by completing three steps. Potential participants should first visit Instagram and follow @themooresvilleyouthcouncil, and then share the Youth Council’s “2021 Dog Mayor Contest is Open” post, tagging the Council. Lastly, send a direct message to the Youth Council with a picture of your dog. The dog with the most Instagram “likes” wins.

The contest will run through May 31. The winner of the Dog Mayor contest will be announced at noon, during the grand opening of the Officer Jordan H. Sheldon Memorial Dog Park.