Steen files for re-election

Fred Steen-Photo by Joey Benton

Staff report

N.C. Rep. Fred Steen, R-Rowan, filed for re-election.

"For the past six years, it has been an honor to represent the people of Rowan County and to serve all of the citizens in North Carolina," Steen said in a letter he sent to supporters over the weekend.

"I look forward to the opportunity to continue to serve in the General Assembly in 2011-12."

A former mayor of Landis, Steen represents the 76th House District, which takes in about half of Rowan County. Democrat Lorene Coates represents the other half in the 77th House District.

Steen, who the General Assembly Web site says is a cost analyst and consultant, is Republican deputy whip in the N.C. House.

"With over 9,300 people now unemployed in Rowan County," Steen said, "we need a legislative body focused on creating jobs in the private sector."

He said job creation, improving North Carolina's economy and reducing the tax burden on working families and small businesses would be his top priorities.

"Since joining the NC House in 2004, I have worked with other legislative members for the good of Rowan County and our state," Steen said, adding he would work "to get other legislative members who are committed to the same priorities for our state."

Filing for 10 offices began at noon Monday and will end at noon Friday, Feb. 26. Other candidates filing Monday include:

- For Rowan County commissioner, Jim Sides, Jim Greene, Gene Miller and incumbent Tina Hall, all Republicans.

- For register of deeds, incumbent John Brindle, a Democrat.

- For N.C. Senate District 34, Republican incumbent Andrew C. Brock and Republican John H. Ferguson.

- For U.S. Senate, Democrat Marcus W. Williams and Libertarian Michael Beitler.

Filing for local offices takes place at the Rowan County Board of Elections, 130 W. Innes St.

The 2010 primary election will be May 4. The general election will be Nov. 2.