Former superintendent announces run for mayor | News ...

Watson, a registered Democrat, currently serves on the faculty of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in the College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership. He said he is running on a platform of tax reform and pragmatic growth for the city.

Former superintendent announces run for mayor

Dr. Jim Watson, superintendent of the district from 2001-2007 and a former member of the Lincolnton City Council (2018-2020), said in a letter that current mayor Ed Hatley “will be a hard act to follow.”

Jim R. Watson currently serves on the faculty of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte's College of Education in the Department of Educational Leadership. He previously served as a superintendent.

Jim previously served as a member of the Lincolnton City Council from 2018 to 2020.

2026 North Carolina General Election

As of January 5, 2026, Jim R. Watson did not have a website or any information online.

Economy

Public Services

Housing & Urban Development

In addition, the mayoral candidate said he spearheaded the National Guard mural project downtown, and “shared being a part of the new police station… getting the department housed in a more spacious and modern facility was long overdue.”

Said a new police station was long overdue because it would provide the department with a more spacious, modern facility.

- Said a new police station was long overdue because it would provide the department with a more spacious, modern facility.

Public Safety

Transportation & Infrastructure

Education

Jim R. Watson

As of January 5, 2026, Jim R. Watson’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Jim is the former superintendent of the Lincoln County Schools. He also served as the chief financial officer for the school district.

Jim previously served as the superintendent of the Lincoln County Schools.

Plans to run on a platform of tax reform and "pragmatic growth for the city."

Isaac Brickman

Buket Urgen

Jill Tipton

- The mayor leads the executive branch of local government, presiding over city council meetings, making sure city departments run smoothly, and providing services to citizens. 
- The mayor attends and runs City Council meetings, serving as an important leader for how local laws get set. These laws affect local services, such as Police, City Planning, Parks & Recreation, and Transportation.  
- The Mayor in some circumstances may vote to break a tie in council meetings. They do not have veto power.