2026 General Election: November 3, 2026. New info launches early October.
Dennis James Stines
Party:
Republican
Incumbent:
No
Age:
66
Previous experience in elected office:
None
Occupation:
Retired carpet installer; former patrol officer for Dallas and Stanley Police Departments
Description:
Stines said he wants to make Gaston County a better place for children and families. He advocates for fiscal responsibility, creating a better partnership between planning and zoning commissions, protecting farmland and stewarding citizens' taxes well. He said he would like to start more programs to help Gaston County residents. He said he would use voter-approved bonds and state grants to finance responsible growth. He also believes the county should work with municipalities to create facilities for the homeless.
Other personal:
Stines is a small business owner. He owned a carpet installation business. He had a Dallas Mini-Mart, which he opened in 2005 and sold in 2010. He ran Shady Rest Grilling until 2014. And he operated “two car lots.” Additionally, for 20 years, he was a patrol officer for the Dallas and Stanley Police Departments. Stines is a lifelong resident of Dallas Township. He is married and has two children and three grandchildren.