Special to Iredell Free News

Iredell County Board of Commissioners Chair Melissa Neader filed for re-election on Monday.

“I am thankful to have the opportunity to serve my county in the elected capacity as a commissioner.,” Neader, a Republican, said in her official campaign announcement.

Candidate filing for the November 5, 2024, general election began Monday and ends on December 15. A primary election is scheduled for March 5.

Serving on the board, Neader said, is rewarding, but it is also a challenging undertaking that involves making decisions based on “facts, opinions, past history, future goals and lasting impacts on citizens.”

“It is critically important to gather facts fully, vet each decision, weigh all options that are available within the legal allowable parameters and discuss with key stakeholders,” Neader explained. 

“I take this role very seriously and am dedicated and ready to continue to serve you, the citizens of Iredell County,” she added.

Neader is a graduate of South Iredell High School and Mitchell Community College, where she earned an associate degree in business. Along with her husband Mike, they owned and operated several McDonald’s franchises in Iredell County for 31 years, before they retired in January of 2022.

A mother of three grown children, Neader is also involved with the Department of Social Services, Iredell County Economic Development Council, and Iredell County Partnership for Young Children. She also hosts a radio show, “Motivational Monday with Melissa,” on WAME.

Neader finished second in the GOP primary for the Iredell County Board of Commissioners in March of 2020 and then was the top vote-getter in the November 2020 general election. She was elected chair by her fellow commissioner in December 2022.