Special to Iredell Free News

Iredell County Commissioner Gene Houpe plans to file for re-election for a fifth term on the Iredell County Board of Commissioners when candidate qualifying begins on Monday, December 4.

The seats occupied by Houpe, Chair Melissa Neader and Commissioner Scottie Brown will be on the ballot in 2024. Candidate filing runs December 4-12. The primary election is scheduled for March 5, and the general election is November 5.

“It has been an honor and privilege to serve and represent the citizens of Iredell County on the Board of Commissioners and in the region as the District 12 director of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners,” Houpe, a Republican, said in his campaign announcement.

In addition to Iredell County, Houpe also represents Cabarrus, Gaston, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Rowan, Stanly, and Union counties on the NCACC. He is in his third term as the District 12 director on the statewide board.

“Representing our region on this Board has given an important voice from Iredell County to advocate for projects and funding for the needs of Iredell County,” he said.

Houpe serves on various boards and committees as a commissioner and represents the Board of Commissioners on the Statesville Airport Commission.

In his campaign announcement, Houpe touted his work, alongside local, state and federal elected officials, to advocate for millions of dollars in grant funding for the airport, schools, agriculture, and other projects in the county, which reduces the burden on local taxpayers.

Houpe said he is proud of the working relationships he has built with all elected officials to help get things done for Iredell County. He believes that his experience and knowledge is necessary to help the county navigate through these uncertain economic times. He also takes great pride in helping county residents who call requesting assistance with a problem.

In a county that spans 574 square miles, with a population of almost 200,000 residents, Houpe said he is dedicated to serving the unique needs of residents of Harmony, Love Valley, Mooresville, Troutman, Statesville and Union Grove.

The board, Houpe said, has worked to sustain balanced growth. Iredell County is the 14th largest county by population in the state, yet has one of the lowest property tax rates in the region and is ranked No. 2 for economic development, he said.

Houpe said he has worked to keep Iredell County as a premier place to work, live, and raise families. The success of the county, he said, is built with investments in safe communities, education, and all county services while balancing growth and economic development.

He believes his experience matters to the residents of Iredell County.

During his tenure as a commissioner, the county has continued to improve services in the county’s 26 departments, 19 volunteer fire departments and the rescue squads. The board, he said, has worked with the sheriff, other law enforcement agencies and school officials to make schools safer.

“I look forward to continuing the work and projects that we have begun and will continue to help grow our tax base instead of our tax rate,” Houpe said.