Commissioner King Announces He Will Not Seek Reelection

Official Press Release from Commissioner King

After serving three consecutive terms on the Rutherford County Board of Commissioners,

including time as Chairman, Bryan King has announced that he will not seek re-election in

the upcoming election cycle.

Commissioner King expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve the residents of

Rutherford County. "It has been an honor to represent our community and work alongside

dedicated colleagues to improve the lives of our citizens," King said. "After careful

consideration, I have decided not to run for another term. This decision comes after much

thought about my personal priorities and the future of our county. I believe it is important to

allow new voices and fresh perspectives to help guide Rutherford County forward. While I

will not be on the ballot, I remain committed to supporting our community and working

forward its continued growth and success in other ways."

As Chairman and Commissioner, King played a key role in numerous transformative

projects and initiatives that have shaped the county’s future, including:

The pioneering role in targeting opioid manufacturers through legal action, becoming

one of the first counties in the state to join a class action lawsuit aimed at holding

pharmaceutical companies accountable for their role in the opioid crisis. This resulted

in millions of dollars to address the opioid issue in our community.

Broadband expansion by adopting a Digital Inclusion plan that paved the way for

investments in broadband expansion in the county.

Expansion of educational infrastructure, including the Isothermal Community College

Applied Science Center, the new Rutherford County Schools RS Middle School, the new

Rutherford County Schools Maintenance, Training and School Bus Complex, and the

Isothermal Community College Health Science Building.

Development and improvements in public safety facilities, such as the new Rutherford

County 911 Center, Professional County Law Enforcement Administration O􀆯ice, and a

new law enforcement evidence storage facility.

Enhancement of community resources, including the Legacy Soccer Field, the Rails-to-

Trails initiative, the new Rutherford County Veterans A􀆯airs O􀆯ice, the new Rutherford

County Public Library, and Rutherford County Animal Control Center.

 Strategic investments in IT security to protect county systems and data.

 Airport improvements to support regional connectivity and economic growth.

 Fiscal responsibility, with annual budgets passed without a tax rate increase throughout

his tenure.

Economic development success, with over 1,225 jobs announced and $1.39 billion

investment committed to Rutherford County over the past decade.

During his tenure as Commissioner, King also served on several key Boards including the

Department of Social Services (DSS) Board, the Isothermal Planning and Development

Commission (IPDC) Board, and the Economic Development Commission (EDC) Board. He

maintained productive working relationships with members of the North Carolina State

Council of Government and the General Assembly, further strengthening the county's

collaborative e􀆯orts at the state level.

‘I want to thank my fellow commissioners, county sta􀆯, and most importantly, the citizens

of Rutherford County for the opportunity to serve. Together, we have faced challenges and

celebrated achievements that have strengthened our County. I am proud of what we have

accomplished and confident that Rutherford County’s best days are ahead.’

“Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving you.”

Commissioner King’s current term will conclude at the end of 2026. He plans to remain

active in local affairs and looks forward to supporting future leaders who share a vision for

a strong and vibrant Rutherford County.