Former Johnston County Commissioner and State Senator Fred Smith of Clayton announced today (Friday) he is running for a seat on the Johnston County Board of Commissioners.
“The time I served as county commissioner was one of the most enjoyable positions I have held because I was able to have a direct impact on people’s lives,” Smith told JoCoReport in an exclusive interview. “I am running once again for county commissioner because I want to give back to Johnston county for being a great place to live, and I would like to add value to Johnston county by helping to make it an even greater place.”
Smith served as a County Commissioner for two years from 2000 until 2002. Afterwards, he was elected to the State Senate where he served 3 terms representing Johnston and Wayne counties. He ran for NC Governor in 2008 and won 66 counties but lost by just over 45,000 votes in the Republican Primary to Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory.
“I love Johnston County. Johnston County is my home. I have lived in Johnston County for 45 years,” Mr. Smith said. “There is so much potential for our county, and I feel the experience I have as a businessman, past commissioner, and state senator can help make a positive difference for the county.”
Smith said he can bring experience and expertise to the Board of Commissioners. While a County Commissioner, he served as chairman of the Johnston County Transportation Committee and was a member of the Comprehensive Planning Committee. “I have owned and operated businesses providing hundreds of jobs for people in Johnston County,” Smith said.
Smith believes the Board needs to focus on improving the quality of live for residents, better infrastructure and economic development. “Some important issues facing Johnston County include continued economic development, quality development, and improved infrastructure. Johnston County’s success requires a focus on schools and community college. There is also a need to focus on improving the quality of life for our citizens through our parks, recreation departments, and senior services. I believe these goals can be accomplished while being a good steward of the taxpayers’ dollars.”
After graduating from College, Fred Smith served as a Captain in the United States Army, JAG Corps before working as an attorney and then a homebuilder and business developer in Johnston County. Fred and his wife, Ginny, have five children and eleven grandchildren. They are members of the First Baptist Church of Clayton, where Fred has been active for 40 years and currently teaches Sunday school.
Smith is running for the District 1 seat on the Johnston County Board of Commissioners. On Oct. 30th, District 1 Commissioner Jeff Carver of Clayton announced he would not seek re-election.
The filing period for the 2020 municipal races, including the District 1 seat, starts at Noon on Dec. 2, 2019 and continues through Dec. 20, 2019. The primary will be held on March 3, 2020 and the general election will take place on Nov. 3, 2020.
