MELISSA HIATT
Citizens First.
ABOUT MELISSA
A native of Surry County, Melissa grew up in the Franklin community and has spent her life residing and serving Surry County. Melissa and her husband reside in the Shelton town Community, near their three children and four grandchildren.
Melissa learned at an early age that hard work and dedication are necessary for success. Volunteering for over 30 years for community schools, churches, and civic groups and 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience in rural North Carolina, Melissa has an understanding of strengths, challenges and needs for the citizens in Surry County.
Grassroots.
Experienced.
Melissa currently serves as the Executive Director of the United Fund of Surry. She has served as Philanthropy, Marketing & Volunteer Director, a Regional Director of Development to 18 countries in NC and the Executive Director for a local Child Abuse Prevention Center in her career.
Melissa possesses a Masters in Public Administration, with a minor in Nonprofit Management and Communications as well as a BA in Human Services and Paralegal Science.
Melissa currently serves as President Elect of the Rotary Club of Mount Airy and serves on the Executive Committee of Greater Mt Airy Chamber of Commerce and Membership Chairman. In the past, Melissa has been a member of Kiwanis Club, Friends of the MAPD, coached Little League Cheerleading, served as a Girl Scout leader and provided countless hours to local schools reading with students and serving through parent organizations as well as serving as a church youth leader and Sunday school teacher.
Involved.
the best county in the country
Melissa believes Surry County is the best county in the country. Having traveled the states, she is always quick to return to her lifelong home.
“The people of this county are what makes Surry great. Their giving nature, hospitality and pride of community resonates with visitors and neighbors. There is simply no better place to live, work & grow!”
a note from Melissa
I humbly ask for your vote for Surry County Commissioner, Mount Airy District in the November election. When elected I promise the citizens of Surry county that their voices will be heard. I will approach every vote with the consideration of the effects on all citizens. I will work to strengthen the economy, support our values - especially in our schools. I will report regularly to our citizens and provide education on processes and changes in ordinances. I believe elected officials and county employees work for the taxpayer and the taxpayer is to be respected.
If you have questions please feel free to reach out to me.
THE FUTURE
Melissa believes education is the foundation of everything we do. We owe our children education without indoctrination and free of bias. We owe our citizens education and information on county government processes and how their dollars are spent.
Education.
Property Tax is the largest revenue generator for the country budget and is generated by 43% of the population (excluding vehicle taxes) . Stewardship is of the utmost importance. Fiscal responsibility and transparency are a must.
Taxes.
The population of Surry County has most recently begun to increase, due to new citizens moving in for various reasons such as jobs and retirement living. Surry County is lacking in all levels of housing making it difficult to attract talent for existing industry. Site ready housing and industry locations are also lacking. Strengthening Economic Development is the only way to maintain the services we have and grow to be a stronger healthier community without increasing property taxes.
Development.
All citizens deserve to feel safe. Providing needed training and equipment to our law enforcement, EMS and first responders is essential. Working with volunteer first responders as well as county employee responders to keep cost down and provide the best service coverage to all citizens.