Special to Iredell Free News

Mooresville resident Richard Coleman has announced his candidacy for a seat on the Iredell County Board of Commissioners.

Coleman spent 15 years working in NASCAR as an over-the-wall pit crew member, road mechanic and tire specialist, before starting his own landscaping company in 2009. He has been married to his wife Jessica for 15 years. The couple has two sons, ages 12 and 8, and one daughter, 10.

“As a conservative Republican, I believe the best government is a limited government that sticks to providing efficient essential services while refraining from burdensome regulations that dampen personal liberty or hinder the growth of our farms and small businesses,” Coleman said in his campaign announcement.

“As a county commissioner, I will make it my mission to see that our public safety apparatus is provided the resources necessary to ensure the well being of our citizens, that our farmers and small businesses are free from burdensome regulations that impede their ability to grow and prosper, and that Iredell County has a strong voice in Raleigh to work with our state elected officials to get the required transportation and infrastructure funds we need to continue Iredell County’s success.”

Candidate filing begins December 5. The seats currently held by Chair Melissa Neader and Commissioners Scottie Brown and Gene Houpe will be on the ballot in 2024.

The primary election is scheduled for March 5, and the general election will be held November 5.

Coleman finished fourth out of nine candidates in the May 2022 Republican primary for three seats on the Board of Commissioners.

He’s optimistic about his campaign and the prospect of serving on the board.

“I am truly excited about the opportunity to represent the citizens of Iredell County as a county commissioner,” Coleman said. “As a husband, father, and small business owner, I have a passion for Iredell County and want to work with other commissioners to ensure the best quality of life possible for our citizens.”