SMITHFIELD – Six people submitted their names for consideration to fill a vacant District 3 seat on the Johnston County Board of Commissioners. The deadline to apply was last Friday, October 25.
The six candidates who submitted their names include: Jason Scott Barbour, James Gathers Jr., Kimberly Kornegay LeQuire, Michael Rose, Chad Stewart, and Stephen Woodard Jr.
Jason Barbour of Four Oaks, is a local Realtor and former candidate for the Johnston County Board of Education. A 1996 graduate of South Johnston High, Mr. Barbour said in his application that saving taxpayer money, effective land use, and keeping schools safe would be among his top priorities.
James Gather Jr., of Four Oaks, the former head custodian at East Clayton Elementary and West Smithfield Elementary School until his retirement in 2009, said in his application, “I want to be appointed as a County Commissioner because I am deeply invested in the future of Johnston County.” Mr. Gathers has served on the Johnston County Planning Board, Republican Judge for the Board of Election, and Comprehensive Lane Use Committee.
Kimberly Kornegay LeQuire of Princeton is a wife, mother, farmer, small business owner, and lifelong resident of Johnston County. She works at Kornegay Family Farms and Produce, and is active on several boards including the University of Mount Olive Agricultural Advisory Board, NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission Board, and Tobacco Farm Life Museum Board.
LeQuire’s application included letters of recommendation and support from Michelle Pace Davis, County Extension Directory Bryant Spivey, Brandon Batten, Michael King, Charlie Young, and Mark A. Wellons.
Michael David Rose of Princeton has been a member of the Princeton Town Board since 2014 and is currently the Mayor Pro Tem. He is the owner of Quickshirts, Inc. and a former teacher in Johnston County schools. “I meet the qualification by living in District 3 and by being a Republican. I have severed on the Princeton Town Board for the past 11 years and have a good understanding of how a governing body works. I have worked with various Johnston County Commissioners on projects such as the Water/Sewer Authority discussions,” Mr. Rose said in his application.
Chad Stewart of Four Oaks submitted his application then withdrew his name for consideration. Mr. Stewart is the general manager of the Johnston County ABC and a former county commissioner in District 3.
Stephen Woodard Jr. of Four Oaks is a retired attorney and former chairman of the Johnston County Arts Council and former president of the Johnston County Bar Association. He also served in the NC National Guard from 1971 to 1977.
“As a dedicated community member with a deep understanding of our county’s needs, I am committed to fostering growth and sustainable development in our County,” Mr. Woodard wrote in his application. “I believe I have the time, talents, and knowledge to give back to this community that I love.”
The county commission board is seeking to fill the remaining term of former Commissioner Richard D. Braswell who was convicted October 7 of taking indecent liberties with a minor. Braswell’s term representing District 3 does not expire until December 2026.
The board plans to interview the five remaining candidates. A date for those interviews has not been announced.
