County Commission - District 19

Romel McMurry

Romel McMurry

Independent

Winner

Tell us about your campaign.

Over the past four years, it has been my honor to serve as your County Commissioner for District 19. During my term, I have served as Vice Chair of the Public Safety Committee, a member of the Health and Education Committee, and as Commission Chaplain. My focus has always been on the people of District 19, not politics. Since May, I have knocked on more than 4,000 doors, met residents at intersections, and listened closely to the concerns and priorities that guide my decisions. Every vote I’ve cast has been with your families and our community’s future in mind. I have stayed focused on the responsibilities of this office, committed to honest, accountable, and effective service. I have not missed a single County Commission meeting during my term, because showing up matters. I remain accessible, engaged, and committed to the people I serve. I respectfully ask for your vote to continue serving as your voice and working to make District 19 an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.

In your own words, describe the responsibilities of the office you are seeking.

The responsibility of a County Commissioner is to be the voice of the people while remaining accessible, accountable, and transparent. Every vote should be made with the best interests of the residents of District 19 in mind. Not every vote has been easy. With every decision, I have carefully considered the facts and information available to me, always keeping the people of District 19 at the forefront of my mind. My goal has never been to make the popular decision, but to make the decision I believe is in the best interest of the district based on the information I have been given. Leadership is about more than addressing today’s challenges—it’s about planning for tomorrow. As Rutherford County has grown to become the fourth-largest county in Tennessee, we must think strategically, make responsible decisions, and prepare for the future while continuing to meet the needs of our community today. I believe in listening to the people, being present, and making thoughtful decisions that reflect the values and priorities of District 19. That is the standard I have worked to uphold, and it is the standard I will continue to bring to this office.

What are your priorities for this office?

If re-elected, my priorities will continue to focus on the people of District 19 and the core responsibilities of county government. I will continue to support and advocate for our first responders, law enforcement officers, teachers, and principals. These public servants work tirelessly to keep our communities safe and prepare the next generation for success, and they deserve leaders who will fight for the resources they need. I also want to continue strengthening the relationship between the Rutherford County Commission and our state delegation. Working together allows us to better address the needs of our growing county and advocate for solutions that benefit our residents. Fiscal responsibility will remain a top priority. Every taxpayer dollar should be spent wisely, and I will continue working to maintain a balanced budget while investing in the essential services our community depends on. As Rutherford County continues to grow, we must plan responsibly by focusing on smart growth and infrastructure improvements that keep pace with our expanding population. As the fourth-largest county in Tennessee, we must think beyond today’s challenges and prepare for tomorrow. By planning ahead, making informed decisions, and remaining accountable to the people of District 19, we can continue building a strong, safe, and prosperous community for future generations.

Describe your qualifications for this office.

I have proudly called the Blackman area home for the past 15 years. Long before running for County Commission, I was actively involved in serving our community through local nonprofits, boards, and committees focused on affordable housing, youth, and senior services. I believe community leadership should begin before seeking public office. People who have a history of serving their community are more likely to continue serving once elected. I am proud to have done just that. During my four years as your County Commissioner, I have remained committed to being visible, accessible, and engaged. I have hosted an annual Town Hall, organized a community Thanksgiving meal, read to students in our local schools, sponsored a PAL to a student each year, supported back-to-school backpack drives, and attended countless community events, ribbon cuttings, and groundbreaking ceremonies. Most importantly, I have always made myself available to my constituents. Whether someone has a concern, a question, or simply needs help navigating county government, they know they can reach me. I believe accessibility and communication are essential to effective leadership. I run as an Independent because my commitment is to the people of District 19—not to a political party. My focus has always been, and will continue to be, serving our community and a genuine desire to put people first.