County Commissioners:

Matthew Wechtel 

Since 2015, Matt has dedicated himself to serving our community as County Commissioner, with the last two years as Chairman. Motivated by a commitment to complete the initiatives he started, he is running for another term. Under his leadership, we have seen tremendous progress. Key areas for continued development include the commencement of the Marshall Mars Hill Highway 213 water/sewer project and the Phase 2 overhaul of the county 911 radio system.

Significant repairs to the Historic Madison County Courthouse have been completed, and plans are underway for a new County Courthouse and Public Service Complex, with funding secured through collaboration with Senator Hise and Representative Pless. Construction will soon begin on a beautiful Veterans Park, along with enhancements at the Ag Extension Office and the County Fairgrounds, including covering the arena.

Matt's unwavering dedication ensures our community thrives and evolves, guaranteeing the successful realization of these vital projects for our sustained growth and well-being.

Michael Garrison

Michael Garrison, currently Vice Chair of the Board of Commissioners, brings over two decades of dedicated law enforcement experience to his role. Having retired as Chief of Police for Mars Hill, his leadership and commitment to public service are evident in his tenure on the Madison County Board of Commissioners, where he has played a pivotal role in community governance. 

Up for reelection, Michael Garrison's candidacy is rooted in a deep understanding of local needs and a proven track record of effective leadership. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a steadfast dedication to improving public safety and enhancing community welfare. 

His experience in law enforcement uniquely positions him to address complex issues facing Madison County, ensuring responsive and accountable governance. As Vice Chair, Michael continues to advocate for initiatives that promote prosperity and well-being for all residents, embodying a commitment to transparency and inclusive decision-making in local government.

School Board

John Bratz

John Bratz is running for the Madison County School Board to ensure a safe, engaging, and healthy learning environment for our children. A lifelong Madison County resident and Madison High School graduate, John and his wife Tanya are deeply rooted in the community, actively involved in local youth organizations and school activities. With over 15 years of maintenance and engineering experience working with the U.S. Military and various companies, John returned to Madison County in 2013 to raise his family and now owns two local businesses, while Tanya works for the Department of Veteran Affairs.

Having two children in the Madison County School system, John is dedicated to improving educational standards and believes in a diverse school board that reflects the community. He aims to leverage his business acumen and life experiences to collaborate effectively with students, parents, teachers, district staff, and legislators, ensuring the voices of the community are heard for long-term success in our schools.

Tyler Coates

Tyler is running for the Board of Education to ensure that the next generation of parents with children in our public school system are actively involved in shaping the future of our education. At 35 years old and a native of the Grapevine community, Tyler brings a wealth of experience from his 13-year tenure with Duke Energy. He and his wife, Lynsey, are proud parents of two children.

"I am committed to making Madison County Schools exceptional," Tyler says. Born and raised in the county, he feels a deep obligation to give back to the community. His Conservative Christian beliefs guide his vision, positioning him as the gatekeeper our county needs for the well-being of our children. Tyler often references Psalm 127, which states, "Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord," emphasizing the importance of nurturing and protecting our youth.

NC House of Representatives 

Mark Pless

Representative Mark Pless has been serving the people of Haywood and Madison Counties in the North Carolina House of Representatives since January 2021. A native of Haywood County, Mark has been married to Becky Messer Pless for 36 years, whose family hails from Puncheon Fork in the Ebbs Chapel community.

During his tenure, Representative Pless has been instrumental in securing funding for numerous vital projects in Madison County. He has successfully implemented sewer and water services on Route 213 from Mars Hill to Marshall and advanced water and sewer projects in Hot Springs. Additionally, he secured funding for the repair of the Madison High School football stadium and obtained funds to cover the Horse Arena at the fairgrounds. His efforts also include lowering income taxes to 4.5% and reducing the permissible time frame for abortions in North Carolina from 20 to 12 weeks. Moreover, he eliminated the redundant pistol purchase permit, protected girls' sports by banning transgender males from competing against girls, and prohibited sex reassignment surgeries on children until they reach 18 years of age.

NC Senator

Ralph Hise

Senator Ralph Hise, serving his sixth term as North Carolina's 47th District Senator, also holds the position of Deputy President Pro Tempore for the second consecutive biennium. Renowned for his effectiveness, Senator Hise co-chairs critical committees including Appropriations/Base Budget, Redistricting and Elections

and the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Information Technology. His voting membership spans all Senate committees, leveraging his leadership to

address state issues comprehensively. A native of Mitchell County, Senator Hise graduated from Mitchell High School and the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Statistics from Appalachian State University and a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from North Carolina State University. 

Senator Hise strongly defends principles such as eliminating Critical Race Theory in schools, safeguarding the Second Amendment, reducing taxes, and securing electoral integrity. His steadfast advocacy ensures he remains a stalwart champion for the values and interests of his constituents.