Candidate Profile: Gene Houpe For Iredell Board Of Commissioners

MOORESVILLE, NC — Iredell County voters have a number of votes to cast in the state’s upcoming primary election on Tuesday, March 3, from presidential candidates to school board candidates. Mooresville Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles over the coming days.

Gene Houpe is a Statesville Republican running for re-election for the Iredell County Board of Commissioners.

Are you running for office in Iredell County? Contact Kimberly Johnson at kimberly.johnson@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate profile and submitting campaign announcements to Mooresville Patch.

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Gene Houpe

Age (as of Election Day)

52

Town of Residence

Statesville

Position Sought

Iredell County Board of Commissioners

Party Affiliation

Republican

Family

Wife: Dr. Tonya Houpe
Children: Ethan (19), Hanna (16), Madison (16), Paxton and Peyton (12)

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

Bachelor of Science in Criminology from Florida State University

Occupation

Owner of KZ Systems Carpet Cleaning (26 years) and retired law enforcement officer (31 years)

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Iredell County Commissioner since 2014

Why are you seeking elective office?

I want to continue the great work that we are doing to attract new business and balance growth for Iredell County.

The single most pressing issue facing our (country/state/district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Our most pressing issue surrounds the growth that is needed to provide infrastructure, schools, and emergency services for the county. I have worked with our local boards and advocated for Iredell on a state and federal level in order to provide our county with what we need. I will continue to dedicate the time necessary to represent you.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I am the only current commissioner running for election. I have the experience and knowledge necessary to continue working on your behalf. I also bring the perspective of a small business owner and a law enforcement officer. This helps me to make decisions while considering growth and services, which no other candidate can.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

The county commissioners have obligations and responsibilities for 25 county departments, helping to fund 19 volunteer fire department, supporting three educational entities, providing court space, offices for the DA probation, and Clerk of Court; all while maintaining the lowest tax rate of any surrounding county and enjoying a top ten economy in the state out of 100 counties. We push economic growth, education, and workforce development. My platform is to continue the great work that we are doing.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

First, the voters have honored me by Re-electing me twice. I pride myself in the work that I have done with our other local boards. I have worked tirelessly to get all stakeholders at the table in order to find innovative solutions to our problems. I have also been elected to represent Iredell County and eight other counties on the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners. This position allows me to advocate for Iredell County and give us a voice on the state level and in the region.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

No other elected official works harder on your behalf and I am honored to be one of your county commissioners.