The 7-member Board sets the policy for the county, determining the strategic vision for the county, appoints a county manager, attorney and others to serve the county, adopts ordinances, including zoning, and establishes an annual budget, which includes setting the tax rate and calling bond referendums.Commissioners are elected by district in partisan elections every 4 years and serve non-staggered 4-year terms.
Position/philosophy statement
Here’s the revised statement, with education limited to the county’s funding role. **Chadwick Howard** **Craven County Commissioner, District 6** I believe public service begins with listening and earns trust through action. As a Craven County Co
Current Occupation
Educator
Age (optional)
47
Campaign Phone
2177667322
My experience as a county commissioner and community leader has taught me to listen, make informed decisions, and follow through. I bring a fiscally conservative approach that prioritizes low taxes, responsible budgets, and careful use of public dollars. A lifetime of grassroots work has kept me connected to residents and taught me how to build relationships, organize efforts, and bring people together. I lead through preparation, accessibility, and accountability, with a clear understanding that public office is a responsibility to the people we serve.
Preserving agriculture while managing growth will be our most important challenge over the next two years. I will work with state officials and local partners to explore ways to support agriculture and balance growth with the long-term needs of Craven County.
The County Commission’s most effective role is responsible funding, clear accountability, and partnership with the school board. I also support partnerships with Craven Community College and local employers to expand career and technical opportunities. I will pursue available grants and balance documented needs with taxpayers’ ability to pay, while respecting the school board’s authority over school operations.
I will continue focusing on our industrial parks to attract employers, help existing businesses expand, and create good-paying jobs. I support practical improvements to infrastructure and site readiness, along with workforce partnerships that prepare residents for those opportunities. Keeping taxes low is central to my approach. Through disciplined spending, responsible budgets, and growth in our tax base, we can maintain essential services, protect taxpayers, and make Craven County an attractive place to start, grow, and invest in a business.
I support lower taxes so families can keep more of what they earn and better meet everyday needs. I would improve social services by making assistance easier to access, reducing administrative delays, and coordinating county programs with nonprofits and community organizations. Stronger partnerships can expand available support and reduce duplication. I would prioritize essential services, clear accountability, and measurable results so resources reach residents who need help while responsible spending protects taxpayers.
My experience as a county commissioner and community leader has taught me to listen, make informed decisions, and follow through. I bring a fiscally conservative approach that prioritizes low taxes, responsible budgets, and careful use of public dollars. A lifetime of grassroots work has kept me connected to residents and taught me how to build relationships, organize efforts, and bring people together. I lead through preparation, accessibility, and accountability. Our county’s strength comes from its people, and government serves best when it protects their freedom and respects their hard-earned dollars.
