Three Swain County Commission Chair candidates hope to replace Republican interim chair Jay Kirkland, appointed after Kevin Seagle’s resignation on Aug. 31, 2025, who is running for a regular commissioner seat.
Republican Robert “Robbie” Brown, independent Fred Crawford, and Democrat Jeramy Shuler look to bring change to a board criticized by some for inadequate transparency, unclear agenda items, and shortsighted budget decisions.
Commissioners have proposed to fund a $2.9 million airport purchase with North Shore settlement interest despite county revenue falling $5.8 million below expenses. Because North Shore appropriations have not increased since 2018 and continue to depreciate, the county’s financial position is tenuous.
Swain County’s small tax base greatly limits its revenues, with 32% coming from property taxes. Meanwhile, federal and state SNAP cuts totaling $190,000 have the county scrambling to fund necessary services.
