Special to IFN

Business owner and lifelong Statesville resident Alex Walker has announced his candidacy for the Ward 5 seat on the Statesville City Council.

In his official campaign announcement, Walker promised to bring “a focused, forward-thinking voice to the table,” along with a clear message: “Statesville must be ready for the growth that’s already knocking at our door.”

The City Council is tasked with helping the community navigate what Walker called a “turning point” in Statesville’s history.

“We are growing fast, and for too long, we’ve been reacting instead of planning,” he explained. “It’s time for serious, focused leadership that understands the magnitude of what’s coming — and is ready to capitalize on it.”

As an insurance professional and firm owner, Walker said he has built a career on leadership, service, and strategic thinking. He has served on the Greater Statesville Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Statesville Development Committee, Iredell County Home Builders, Civil Service Board, and the Carolina BalloonFest Board, working to strengthen the city’s economic and cultural foundation.

His real-world experience navigating complex challenges, Walker said, will serve the City Council well as it works to help Statesville grow wisely and responsibly.

Walker believes that economic development must be the top priority.

“We need to be preparing for business investment, infrastructure expansion, and workforce development,” he said. “We can’t afford to waste this window of opportunity.”

While his focus is on the future, Walker’s roots are deeply local. He and his wife Erica are proud to raise their son and daughter, Harlan and Teddy, as well as run their small businesses in Ward 5. From coaching youth sports to serving on community boards, Walker has been involved in Statesville life at every level—and says that’s what sets him apart from other candidates.

“I’m not running for office to climb a political ladder — I’m running to serve the place I love,” he said. “Ward 5 deserves a strong voice, and Statesville deserves a City Council that sees the big picture.”

Walker said his campaign will focus on:

♦ Smart, sustainable growth;
♦ Workforce Development;
♦ Aggressive economic development efforts;
♦ Improved city infrastructure and planning; and
♦ Transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement

“Let’s stop chasing trends and start building a foundation for the future,” Walker said. “It’s time for leadership that thinks big and acts boldly.”