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Kerry Lamson
Party:
Unaffiliated
Incumbent:
No
Previous experience in elected office:
None
Age:
74
Occupation:
Nonprofit leader and former technology executive
Description:
Lamson says he is running to guide Matthews through growth while maintaining its livability, inclusivity, and small-town character. His priorities include expanding attainable housing for seniors, families, and essential workers; promoting smart growth and infrastructure improvements; ensuring fiscal accountability in spending taxpayer dollars; and supporting local families and small businesses, particularly lower-income households.
Other personal:
Lamson has lived in Matthews for 15 years. He has a bachelor’s degree from Penn State. He says he is registered unaffiliated.
The Election Hub Questionnaire
Please provide demographic information about yourself to help voters (age, education, current occupation, where you live).
I am 73 years old, a graduate of Penn State University with a degree in Finance and Economics, and I have lived in Matthews, North Carolina, with my wife, Jeannie, for 15 years. Professionally, I’ve built a 30+ year executive career in business operations, finance, and technology leadership, giving me the tools to understand budgets, manage growth, and deliver results — skills I bring directly into public service.
Why are you running for this role and why should voters pick you? Please share any experience in an elected role that would be relevant to voters.
I’m running for Matthews Commissioner because I believe our town deserves leadership that puts residents first, plans responsibly for growth, and protects affordability for families and small businesses. Matthews is at a crossroads: we’re experiencing rapid change, and how we handle it will determine whether our town remains a place where people want to live, raise a family, and grow a business.
I am an unaffiliated candidate in this race and bring a track record of experience from serving five years on the Town of Matthews Planning Board, housing initiatives, and the Light Rail Task Force. I’ve also led teams in corporate and nonprofit settings, managing multimillion-dollar budgets, technology modernization projects, and cross-functional initiatives. Voters can trust me to be practical, transparent, and focused on solutions that work for residents — not political parties.
What is one thing you would like to accomplish in the first six months if elected?
In my first six months, I would prioritize improving transparency and accountability in our planning process — making sure residents can clearly see how approved but unbuilt projects, transportation plans, and development proposals fit together. This will help us make smarter infrastructure decisions, reduce traffic frustrations, and better manage growth.
Tell us about 2-3 professional accomplishments you have achieved in your work experience (not limited to public service) that give voters a sense of your leadership style or skills.
Five years on the Matthews Planning Board including Vice Chair, shaping balanced growth and zoning decisions with direct impact on housing and development.
Chaired and recruited a cross functional group of Matthews business leaders to evaluate affordable housing needs and develop initiatives to keep Matthews accessible for a range of incomes.
Served on the Matthews Light Rail Task Force, advocating for stronger regional transit connections.
Executive background leading finance and operations teams, where I managed budgets, oversaw strategic growth, and delivered organizational improvements.
Experienced in technology modernization and business process improvement, ensuring efficiency and accountability in both public and private work.
What is your position on the proposed transit tax and why? Will you vote in favor of it or against it in November?
I do not support the proposed sales tax increase. While regional transit is important, Matthews’ needs have not been adequately included in long-term planning relative to the proposed cost to residents. My focus is on advocating to get Matthews back onto the Metropolitan Transit Commission’s long-range plan so we are not left behind, without asking residents to take on another tax burden.
What endorsements from any notable NC organizations or individuals have you received?
I am running a grassroots campaign supported by residents across Matthews. While I have not sought formal endorsements from political organizations, I am proud to have earned the trust of neighbors, business owners, community leaders and members of both political parties who value independence and a resident-first approach.
Tell us something unexpected about you that voters may be interested to know.
I’m a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan and a season ticket holder. Just recently, my family and I spent 10 days in Dublin, Ireland, for the first-ever NFL football game played there between the Steelers and the Minnesota Vikings — and the Steelers won!