IFN Staff

Braden Zittle, a local business leader, husband and father of three, announced his candidacy for an at-large seat on the Statesville City Council on Thursday.

Stressing the values of faith, family, and hard work, Zittle said his campaign will focus on economic growth, infrastructure investment, and an industry-led future for the city.

“I’m not running to join the political class — I’m running to challenge it,” he said in a news release. “Statesville needs leadership that understands the real-world challenges that business owners and residents face, and is ready to bring real-world solutions. I believe in a lean, local government that clears the path for business, supports working families, and grows opportunity from the ground up.”

Zittle is the third candidate to announce his candidacy for the two at-large seats that will be on the November ballot. Frederick Foster, a former councilman, and Trey Robertson previously declared their intention to run for the council seats currently held by Kim Wasson and Steve Johnson.

The top vote-getter in the election will win a four-year term and the second-place finisher will win a two-year term.

In his campaign announcement, Zittle touted his years of executive and operational experience across transportation, logistics, and manufacturing. Most recently, he has worked as a logistics manager at a hauling startup, while overseeing specific strategic growth and production initiatives at SteelCraft Structures. He’s also served as chief operating officer for a FedEx-contracted logistics provider, managing over 150 employees and operations across five states.

Zittle said his campaign will center around a call to return public office to what it was meant to be: service over self.

If elected, he will emphasize economic revitalization through infrastructure, skilled workforce development, and attracting industry that offers long-term careers, not just short-term jobs.

“My vision for Statesville is simple. Let’s build. Let’s grow. Let’s lead with integrity,” said Zittle. “Our children deserve a city that’s forward-thinking and full of opportunity. It’s time to take action that respects the values we hold and the people who built this community.”

Candidate filing begins at 8 a.m. on July 7 and ends at 12 noon on July 18. Election Day is Tuesday, November 4, with early voting beginning on October 16.