Special to IFN

Citing a need for a new generation of leaders who will develop and implement public policy for the benefit of Statesville families, James Pressly has filed to run for an at-large seat on the Statesville City Council in the 2025 election.

In his campaign announcement, Pressly pledged to prioritize public safety, protect and promote Statesville’s small-town charm and way of life, and put an end to wasteful spending and misguided policies that continue to risk the livelihood of hardworking Statesville families.

“I’m born and raised right here in Statesville. I help run our family business here, and I hope to raise my own children here, too,” Pressly said. “Our city means everything to me. That’s why I can’t sit back and watch misguided politicians mis-spend our tax dollars and put our families at risk while communities around us thrive. Our city government belongs to the taxpayers, and I’m running to be their commonsense voice on the City Council.”

City leadership, Pressly said, has been out of touch with its citizens on a number of issues, from remote satellite annexations to neglected infrastructure, wasteful and costly policies, and a refusal to prioritize critical services.

Pressly is a fourth-generation Statesville native and local business owner who graduated with a degree in history from the University of South Carolina. He holds master’s degrees in business administration and real estate finance. He and his wife Jessie live in Statesville.

“The goal of our City Hall should be to provide fundamental services to our citizens such as police and fire safety, affordable and reliable utilities, well-maintained city streets, and to bring in higher-paying jobs for our families in Statesville,” he said. “If elected, my goal is to help eliminate wasteful spending, make our community safer, and improve the quality of life for every resident.”