This election year, LincolnHerald.com is offering candidates a unique chance to speak directly to you. We believe it's important for voters to hear firsthand from each candidate about their vision, experience and why they are the best choice for the role.

In this article below, you'll find answers to five key questions that reveals this candidate’s platform and priorities. We encourage you to read their responses to gain a deeper understanding of their plans and perspectives, helping you make an informed choice when you head to the polls.

1. What key issues are you prioritizing, and what steps are you taking to address them?
2. How does your background, values, education, and experience prepare you to represent the community effectively?
3. What makes you the best candidate for this position and how do you differentiate yourself from your opponents?
4. What long-term goals do you hope to achieve if elected to office?
5. What sets you apart from other candidates, and why should voters choose you to represent them?

The following is the candidate's response, written in his own words:

1. What key issues are you prioritizing, and what steps are you taking to address them?

A top priority is successful planning. Witnessing the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and the damage she left behind, it is apparent that we need to properly support our first responders, making sure that our Fire, EMS, and Sherriff’s departments are adequately funded and equipped to help our citizens in their darkest hours.  Planning is also pivotal to managing growth in Lincoln County.  Our popularity is not waning, so it is imperative that we work on measures to best support our existing population while carefully planning for new residents. This includes adequately funding our school system.  Lincoln County has one of the best school systems in state.  Offering amazing opportunities for our students while growing the whole child is paramount to our community’s future and success.

2.       How does your background, values, education, and experience prepare you to represent the community effectively?

Born and raised in Lincoln County, I am the President of the longest running family-owned insurance agency in this county. After graduating from UNC-Chapel Hill, I returned to Lincolnton to join my family’s business and have spent twenty-six years managing Citizens Insurance. I have served on various boards, many specifically focusing on aiding children. Whether as a member of Kiwanis, which keeps shoes on the feet of area children, or with the local Rotary Club which helps send those same kids to college, I align myself with opportunities that focus on success for the next generation. Currently serving my third term on the county Board of Education, five years as Chairman, I have continuously been elected to shape the educational path of Lincoln County Schools.  I lean heavily on my Christian faith and values in every decision that I make.

3.       What makes you the best candidate for this position, and how do you differentiate yourself from your opponents?

Successfully managing a serviced based business in this community has provided a lens into the needs and desires of Lincoln County residents. The opportunity to constantly interface with folks from one end of the county to the other has helped me gain understanding of how different the needs are east to west.  My service on the BOE has magnified that lens and provided insight specifically into household needs that I wouldn’t be privy too without this experience.  I am a researcher, and working closely with county and city management has provided an understanding of our local government.  I also proudly serve as a director for Rutherford Electric Members Corporation, providing additional insight into the utilities world.  I am also a proud Christian and fiscal conservative.   I will use this collective knowledge and experience to lead Lincoln County forward.

4.       What long-term goals do you hope to achieve if elected to office?

I am invested in making Lincoln County a better place to work, live and thrive.   By carefully forecasting and taking a long-term looking approach to planning, we can shape our community to be prepared for the future.  A future that is pleasant, not overcrowded, and not over taxed.  A place where every Lincoln County citizen is proud to live and raise their family.

5.       Why should voters choose you to represent them?

I bring extensive experience, knowledge, and passion for this community to the table.  I understand complex budgets, have the ability to listen, and always make decisions based on research and understanding, not on feelings or friendships.  To govern effectively, you have to dedicate time and energy to understanding what is effective and what needs to be improved.  I am willing to do the work and look forward to making Lincoln County the best it can be.

Mark Mullen for Lincoln County Board Of Commissioners